Plum Farming in Kenya

Plum farming in Kenya is and has not been widespread as other fruit farming ventures like mango or avocado farming. It has gained popularity in the last few decades with the growing interest in diverse fruit farming options, introduction of suitable varieties and better understanding of the crop’s requirements. Plum trees are deciduous, requiring a cool climate that has distinct seasons for them to thrive. They are primarily grown in Kenya’s highland regions, where the climate and soil are favourable. The main areas being Kiambu, Nyeri, Murang’a, Nakuru, Kericho and some parts of Meru County.

Plums are stone fruits that belong to the genus Prunus, which also includes peaches, cherries and almonds. They are known for their juicy flesh and smooth, often colourful skin, ranging from red and purple to yellow and green. Plums are known to be rich in vitamins A, C, and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, making them popular for fresh consumption and processing into products like jams, juices and prunes.

Popular plum varieties grown in Kenya.

• Santa Rosa
• Satsuma
• Shiro
• Cherry plum
• Harry Pickstone

Ideal Climate and Soil requirements for the growth of plums

Temperatures: Plum requires temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. They need a cool period to encourage flowering.

Rainfall: Plums require well distributed rainfall of about 800-1200mm per year. However, they do not tolerate waterlogging making proper drainage essential.

Soil type: Well-drained, loamy soils with good organic matter content are ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 and 6.5.

Propagation of plums

Plums can be propagated from seeds but for uniformity in fruit quality and early maturity, grafting is recommended. It is advisable to get the grafted seedlings from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. You can contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357/0723213602/0798919007 to place your order.

Ideal spacing for plum trees

We recommend a spacing of 5m between your plum trees and by 5m between the rows to allow enough room for growth and ease of management.

Planting holes size

When preparing to plant your plum trees, dig holes measuring 60cm by 60cm by 60cm that is 2ft by 2ft by 2ft and then mix the topsoil with compost or well-decomposed manure before refilling the hole.

Planting time

The best time to plant your plums is during the onset of the rainy season, usually in March or October. Timing this period is important to ensure sufficient water availability and good establishment of the seedling.

Management practices in plum farming

Irrigation

Just like other plants, plums need supplementary irrigation during the dry seasons especially during the flowering and fruit development stages.

Pruning

Pruning your plums is very important as it will help you get rid of the dead or diseased branches, encourage air circulation and will also shape your plant in a way that allows sunlight penetration. The best time to prune your plant trees will definitely be during their dormant season, ideally June or July.

Common plum pests and diseases

Plum trees are susceptible to several pests and diseases, which can impact fruit quality and yield if not properly managed. Some of the common ones are.

• Aphids-These are sap sucking insects that cause leaf curling, stunted growth, and transmit viral diseases.
• Fruit flies-The lay eggs inside the fruit, leading to maggot-infested plums.
• Plum Curculio-Plum curculio pest bores into the fruit to lay eggs causing premature fruit drop.
• Scale insects- These insects attach themselves to the plant branches and suck sap, weakening the tree and causing the branches to start drying up.
• Brown rot: This is a fungal disease that causes fruit rot, blossom blight, and cankers on branches. Its best control is pruning and removing infected parts, applying fungicides and ensuring proper air circulation around the plants.
• Black Knot- A fungal disease that causes black, swollen galls on the branches, leading to dieback.
• Bacterial spot- This disease causes small, water-soaked lesions on leaves, fruit, and twigs leading to defoliation and fruit blemishes.

Maturity period, Harvesting and Post-harvest handling of plums

Plums take about 3 years from planting to begin fruiting. Once the fruits are mature and are ready for harvesting, the biggest indicator is the colour change then softening of their skin. Plums have a delicate skin and therefore they need to be handled carefully to avoid damaging them.

Waiting for a fruit to reach its maturity and properly harvesting it is not enough. Proper post-harvest handling is crucial to maintain quality for marketability. Once you have harvested your plums, as a commercial farmer you should grade your plums, sort them out in terms of quality and size and then store them ready for market. If you are into value addition, process your plums in to jams, juices, dried prunes and many other products. This will extend the shelf life of your produce and also open up new market opportunities.

Market potential for plums

Local market

Plums among other fruits are a popular choice for fresh consumption. In Kenya we have supermarket chains, specialty stores, groceries, market stalls etc offering market for our plums.

Export market

There is a potential for exporting our Kenyan plums to regional markets such as Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda and also to the European markets. However, if you target the export markets, meeting international quality standards and certification will be crucial.

Challenges in plum fruit farming

While plum farming is profitable, it is not without challenges. Some of the challenges you are likely to encounter as a farmer are,

Changing climate_ Unexpected weather patterns can really affect flowering and fruit set.

Pest and disease-Plums are susceptible to pests and diseases and therefore they need to be managed properly to ensure the plants have high yields

Market fluctuations -Sometimes the law of supply and demand may actually hit in, and the prices may fluctuate depending on the supply and demand and this may affect profitability.

Beetroot Farming in Kenya: Common Asked Questions on Beetroot Farming.

Beetroot is a nutritious vegetable that is believed to have originated from the Mediterranean region, with early cultivation in ancient Egypt. It has been a staple vegetable in many dishes worldwide hence its popularity. It has several health benefits that include provision of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates, and proteins. Beetroot farming in Kenya has proven to be not only agriculturally viable but also economically rewarding. In this article, we shall explore all the commonly asked questions about beetroot farming to get you ready for cultivation.

Which is the ideal climate and soils for the growth of beetroot?

Beetroots thrive best in climates that are cool to warm, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 24 degrees Celsius. In Kenya, it can be grown in both the highland and lowland areas as long as the temperature is ranging from 10 to 24 degrees. The soil conditions for beetroot include well- drained loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a soil  pH of between  (6.0 to 7.0) that is rich in organic matter and free from stones to allow proper root development.

How should I prepare the soil for beetroot farming?

Thoroughly plow the soil to a depth of about 20-30cm deep to ensure the area is free of weeds and debris and to loosen up the soil to ensure the roots can penetrate deep in the soil. Next is to incorporate well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost and then prepare well-spaced rows for planting your beetroots.

Which varieties of beetroot are well suited for Kenyan conditions?

There are several varieties of beetroot grown worldwide, but in Kenya the most popular varieties that are known for their adaptability to Kenyan climates include Bolt hardy, Chioggia pink, Burpees’s golden, Cylindra, Rubidus and Detroit 6.

Which is the best time to plant beetroots in Kenya?

In Kenya, the best time to plant beetroots generally depends on the specific region and the local climate conditions. However, optimal planting time is during the cool seasons, onset of the rainy seasons typically from March to June and September to November.

What is the recommended spacing for planting beetroots in Kenya?

A spacing of 10-15cm between the beetroots plants is ideal to allow for proper root development, optimal growth, and yield. Give a spacing of 30cm apart between the rows to make it easy for cultivation activities such as fertilizing and also harvesting.

How many days does it take to harvest beetroots?

The time it takes to harvest beetroots can vary depending on the variety of the beetroot, the growing conditions, and the desired size for harvest. Typically, 60- 80 days after planting, beetroots are ready for harvesting. By then, the roots are about 5-10cm in diameter. Harvesting is done by pulling the roots from the soil. Once can also use a fork to lift them up while ensuring you do it carefully to avoid damaging the beet.

What post-harvest activities should I follow for my beetroot to last longer?

After harvesting beetroots, trim the tops to prevent moisture loss leaving about an inch of the stem. Wash the beetroots thoroughly to remove soil and then grade them according to size and quality. Store them in a cool, dark place with proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot. Properly stored beets can last for several weeks without refrigeration and several months under refrigeration.

How can I market my beetroot produce in Kenya?

Beetroot has a steady market in Kenya, particularly in urban areas and supermarkets. The crop can be sold fresh, processed into juices, or dried for powder. When marketing, research local market trends and establish connections with markets, supermarkets, and restaurants. Consider getting an organic certification to enable you to tap into the growing market for organic produce.

Also Read: Lemon Farming in Kenya. A Guide to Planting and Market Opportunities.

Lemon Farming in Kenya: Guidelines For Planting and Market Opportunities

Lemon farming in Kenya has experienced substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for lemons both domestically and internationally. Lemons are a vital ingredient in many Kenyan households. They are used for culinary purposes, juice production and traditional medicine among other uses. Kenyan lemons are a face of attraction in the global markets due to their vibrant flavor and high vitamin C content. The diverse agro-ecological zones in Kenya have made it suitable for cultivating lemon in all parts of the country making Kenya stand as one of the largest lemon producers in Africa.

Rough Lemon

Climate and soil requirements for lemon cultivation

Lemons thrive in warm climates and require a consistent supply of water for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for lemon farming is between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius. Regions with well-distributed rainfall of 1000 to 1500mm per year are suitable for lemon farming. However, irrigation is necessary in drier areas to supplement rainfall, particularly during the dry season.

Soil is a critical factor in lemon farming. Lemons just like other plants prefer well-drained soils. They prefer sandy loam soils that have a Ph range of about 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy root development and nutrient absorption.

Lemon farming requires careful planning and implementation of best practices to ensure healthy growth and high yields.

Step by step guidelines for planting lemons.

1.      Site Selection/ Soil preparation

Choose a location that has well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging which can affect your lemon trees by causing root rot. The area should also have a full sun light exposure. Once you have selected a suitable site, conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels of the soil. You can then incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to improve its structure and nutrient content.

2.      Choose the right varieties

Any successful farming begins with choosing suitable varieties of the plant or crop you want to cultivate. In Kenya, several lemon varieties are cultivated, each with its unique characteristics and adaptability to the diverse agro-climatic conditions. Eureka, Lisbon, Meyer and rough lemon varieties are the most popular choices for lemon farmers in Kenya. These varieties thrive well in the country’s tropical and subtropical climates, displaying resilience to various environmental conditions.

v Eureka Lemon

Eureka lemons have a medium to large size with an oval shape and a bright yellow color. They are characterized with a smooth thin skin, minimal seeds and a high juice content that makes them popular for both commercial purposes and home uses.

Eureka lemons are well-suited to areas with warm temperatures and can tolerate a range of soil types. They are generally suitable for planting in various regions in Kenya. Eureka is an early maturing variety that starts to produce from around the 12 month after planting. Its productive throughout the year, making it a consistent source of harvest.

v Lisbon Lemon

They are similar in appearance to Eureka lemons. They have a tangy flavor and soo much juice.

They do well in subtropical climates with well -drained soils that benefit from regular watering. Depending on the amount of care you give to your Lisbon plants, they can be productive throughout the year providing a steady supply for both local consumption and commercial markets. Lisbon lemon variety is known to be resistant to some of the most common citrus diseases.

v Meyer Lemon

This is a hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange. Meyer lemons are known to be slightly sweeter than other varieties.

v Rough Lemon

This variety is mainly used as a rootstock for grafting other citruses, but they are also grown for their fruits. This variety is hardy and resistant to drought, making it suitable for arid regions.

Where do I get lemon seedlings from?

Get your ready to plant lemon seedlings from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. Call or whatsapp them at 0724698357/0723213602/0798919007 to make your order.

3.      Planting

During planting, dig holes with dimensions of approximately 1.5ft in depth and 2ft in width. Space the holes at least 10 to 15 feet if planting standard sized lemons and 6 to 8 feet if planting a dwarf sized variety to allow for proper growth. If planting from a seedling, place the tree in the centre of the hole then backfill the hole with the soil which is a mix of topsoil with compost or manure while gently pressing it down to create firmness.

4.      Watering

Once you are done with planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil. Maintain consistent watering, especially during the establishment phase. Drip irrigation is the most efficient method, as it delivers water directly to the root zone and reduces wastage. You can also carry out mulching around the base of the plant to help in retaining moisture and suppressing weeds.

5.      Pruning

Prune the lemon tree to shape it and encourage a strong structure and to allow free air circulation.

6.      Ongoing care

·       Regularly inspect the lemon tree for signs of stress, pests, or diseases.

·       Adjust water based on weather conditions.

·       Provide additional support during heavy fruit-bearing seasons.

Common pests and diseases that attack lemon plants

Lemon farming in Kenya faces several challenges that can affect productivity and profitability. Among them is pests and diseases. Lemons are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as.

Ø  Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.

Ø  Citrus thrips: Thrips damage young fruits, causing scars and deformities

Ø  Citrus leaf miner: This pest creates tunnels in the leaves, leading to curling and distortion.

Ø  Citrus Canker: A bacterial disease that causes lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit. It can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plants parts and applying copper-based fungicides.

Ø  Root rot: Caused by waterlogged conditions. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding over watering.

 Harvesting

Un grafted lemon trees typically start bearing fruits after about 3 to 5 years after planting with the grafted ones taking an year or two to start fruiting. Harvesting can be done when the lemons reach their full size and develop a yellow colour. For varieties like Eureka, Lisbon and rough lemon, harvesting is done when the fruits are fully ripe, while Meyer lemons can be harvested when they are still green. Harvesting of lemons just like other fruits should be done carefully to avoid damaging the fruit.

Market opportunities

Kenyan lemons hold a tremendous market potential with a growing demand for fresh produce and processed citrus products. Export markets in Europe and the Middle East offer lucrative opportunities for farmers, encouraging the adoption of quality assurance measures to meet international standards.

To increase your profitability, you can get in to value addition through the production of lemon juices, essential oils, preservatives, lemon flavoured tea leaves and many other lemon-based products. As a farmer who is looking forward to getting the most out of your lemons, you can explore niche markets such as organic farming, which commands premium prices.

Related links:Lemon Farming in Wajir.