In
an era where sustainable practices have become increasingly crucial, pursuing
environmentally friendly solutions has extended its reach to the agricultural
sector. One such endeavor that has gained significant momentum is green pea
farming. Green peas are a versatile and nutritious legume that has captured the
attention of both farmers and consumers alike.
 |
| Green Peas Harvest |
Why Farm Green Peas
Green
pea farming is an environmentally friendly agricultural practice. As
nitrogen-fixing legumes, green peas can form symbiotic relationships with soil
bacteria, enriching the soil with nitrogen
Green
peas contribute to soil health and biodiversity conservation. Their deep root
systems enhance soil structure, water infiltration, and nutrient cycling.
Green
peas are a highly nutritious crop. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, dietary
fiber, and plant-based proteins.
Lettuce Farming in Kenya: Step by Step Process for Farming Lettuces
Green
pea farming creates economic opportunities, particularly for small-scale
farmers in rural areas.
Green
peas are often grown as cash crops, giving farmers the potential for higher
returns. Moreover, the demand for sustainably grown and organic green peas
presents opportunities for fair trade and premium markets, leading to increased
profitability and improved livelihoods for farming communities.
Green Pea Growing Areas In Kenya
Kenya has several regions suitable for green pea farming. Some of these regions include; Nakuru, Nyandarua, Meru, Uasin Gishu, Nyeri and Laikipia.
Step By Step Guide
The
first step of green pea farming is choosing a suitable seed variety. In Kenya,
several green pea varieties are known for their high yields and disease
tolerance. Here are a few types that you can consider:
1. KS Mwenje: This variety is popular
in Kenya and known for its high yields and disease resistance. It is tolerant
of powdery mildew and bacterial blight, two common diseases affecting green
peas. KS Mwenje produces large pods with many peas per pod, resulting in good
yields.
2. Sugar Snap: Sugar Snap is a
well-known variety that combines excellent taste and productivity. It produces
sweet, edible pods with round, plump peas inside. Sugar Snap is appreciated for
its disease resistance, including resistance to powdery mildew and some mosaic
virus strains.
3. Kamande: Kamande is a popular
green pea variety in Kenya, known for its high yields. It has good resistance
to powdery mildew and is suitable for fresh consumption and processing. Kamande
produces uniform pods with sweet and tender peas.
4.
Kenya Beauty: This is
a high-yielding variety that performs well under various growing conditions in
Kenya.It has good disease resistance, particularly to powdery mildew. Kenya
Beauty produces medium-sized pods filled with delicious peas.
5. Sugar Bon: Sugar Bon is another
variety known for its high yields and disease resistance. It is resistant to
powdery mildew and tolerates common pea diseases. Sugar Bon produces sweet and
tender peas in medium-sized pods.
 |
| Well-trellised Green Peas |
Land Preparation
Land
preparation is a crucial step in green pea farming, as it creates an optimal
environment for the growth and survival of seeds. The process begins by
clearing the land of any vegetation, rocks, debris, or weeds. This can be done
manually or using machinery like a tractor or brush cutter.
Soil
After
clearing the land, farmers should conduct a soil test to assess the nutrient
levels, pH, and organic matter content. The results of the soil test help
determine the soil fertility status and any necessary amendments required for
optimal crop growth. Soil amendments, such as organic matter, that is compost
or well-rotted manure or inorganic fertilizers should be added based on the
soil test results. These amendments are incorporated into the soil during the
tilling process.
Weed Management
Before
planting, effective weed management is essential. Weeds can be controlled
manually through weeding, herbicides, or organic weed control methods such as
mulching with straw or dried leaves.
Planting
Determine
the appropriate timing for sowing green peas based on your specific region and
climate conditions. Green peas are cool-season crops and prefer temperatures
between 13 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius. Sow the seeds when the soil
has warmed up sufficiently, and the risk of frost has passed.
Spacing
Green
pea seeds should be sown with adequate spacing to allow proper growth and
development of the plants. Generally, maintain a spacing of about 5-8 cm
between seeds in a row. Rows should be spaced approximately 45-60 cm apart.
Adjust the spacing based on the recommendations given.
The general rule of thumb is to plant the
seeds at a depth of about 1-2 inches. Planting too shallow may result in the
drying out of sources while growing too deep can hinder seedling emergence.
Planting Method
- Green pea seeds can be sown directly into the prepared soil. There are two standard methods for sowing green peas:
- Row Planting: Create furrows or
shallow trenches along the rows using a hoe or a furrower attachment on a
tractor. Drop the seeds into the folds and cover them with soil at the desired
spacing.
- Broadcast Planting: If using a
broadcast method, scatter the seeds evenly across the prepared soil. Rake or
lightly harrow the ground afterward to cover the bases with a thin layer of
soil.
- Seeding Rate: The seeding rate for
green peas depends on variety, soil fertility, and desired plant population.
Generally, a seeding rate of 70-90 pounds per acre (78-101 kg/ha) is
recommended. Adjust the seeding speed based on the specific recommendations
provided by the seed supplier or local agricultural experts.
- Fertilizer Placement: Some farmers prefer placing fertilizer in the
furrow or trench before sowing the seeds. This allows emerging seedlings to
have early access to nutrients. However, following proper fertilizer
recommendations based on soil tests and the specific nutrient requirements
of green peas is crucial.
Water Requirement
After sowing the seeds, provide adequate
irrigation to ensure soil moisture for germination. Green peas require
consistent water during the germination and early growth stages. Avoid
overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to seed rot or fungal diseases.
Cherry Guava Farming In Kenya: A Simple Guide For The Early Birds
Trellising
Green
pea plants are climbers, and some varieties require support for proper growth.
Install trellises or stakes in the field before sowing the seeds so the plants
have support as they grow. This helps keep the plants upright, facilitates air
circulation, and makes harvesting easier.
Pests and Weeds Management
Weed
and pest management are crucial for green pea farming.
1. Pest Management:
Monitor
the crop regularly for signs of pests. Adopt an integrated pest management
(IPM) approach. Encourage beneficial insects and biological control methods. Use
targeted pesticide application when necessary, following recommended
guidelines. Practice crop rotation and maintain field sanitation.
2. Weed Management
Clear
the field of existing weeds before planting. Apply organic mulch to suppress weed growth. Use manual or mechanical cultivation
methods to control weeds. Consider
selective and judicious use of herbicides, following recommended guidelines.
Harvesting and Storage
Green
peas should be harvested when the pods are fully developed but the peas inside
are still tender. The ideal harvesting time varies depending on the variety,
but it is generally when the pods have reached their full size and have a
bright green color. Avoid harvesting too early or late, as this can result in
immature or starchy peas.
When harvesting, gently pick or snap
the pods from the plants by hand. Avoid pulling or yanking the pods, as this
can damage the plants or cause the pods to split open.
 |
| Green Peas Farming |
Post- Harvest Handling
Handle
the harvested green peas carefully to avoid bruising or damage. Immediately
after harvest, remove the peas from the pods. Sort and clean the peas, removing
any damaged or discolored ones. Discard any pods that are over mature or have
started to dry out.
Storage
Green
peas are perishable and can deteriorate rapidly if not cooled promptly after
harvest. Rapidly cool the peas by placing them in shaded areas or using
forced-air cooling techniques. This helps preserve their quality and prolong
shelf life.
Green
peas are best stored in a calm, humid environment to maintain freshness. Place
the cleaned peas in perforated plastic bags or containers and store them in a
refrigerator or cool room with temperatures around zero degrees Celsius to 4 degrees Celsius.
Maintain around 90-95% high humidity levels to prevent drying out.
Freezing
is an excellent method to extend the shelf life of green peas. Blanch the peas
by briefly immersing them in boiling water then cool them quickly in ice water.
Drain and package the blanched peas in airtight freezer bags or containers.
Store them in the freezer at 18 degrees Celsius or below for long-term storage.
Green Pea farming is a lucrative activity when done right. Green pea farmers are advised to seek the services of qualified extension officers to guide them throughout the journey.
- Spacing: 5-8 cm between seeds, 45-60 cm between rows.
- Market price: Ksh. 50- 100 per kg
- Yield: 3-5 bags per acre
- Common pests: Aphids, cutworm, Beetles, Flies
- Common diseases: Leaf spot, powdery mildew, bacterial blight, Downy Mildew.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much do peas yield per acre in Kenya?
- How long do green peas take to mature?
- How to grow green peas in Kenya?
- How much is 1kg of peas in Kenya?
- What is the required spacing for Green Peas?
No comments:
Post a Comment