Black
nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is a popular leafy vegetable in Kenya, commonly
known as “managu” or “osuga”. It is a highly nutritious leafy vegetable that
has gained popularity due to its health benefits and relatively easy
cultivation. Managu is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, Iron and Calcium..jpg)
Black Nightshade(Managu)
Climate
and soil requirements for managu farming.
Black
nightshade thrives in a warm climate with moderate rainfall, ideally between
600mm to 1200mm annually. The crop grows well in temperatures ranging from 20
to 30 degrees Celsius. It prefers well-drained loamy soils rich in organic
matter, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5
How
profitable is managu farming in Kenya?
This
is a question that is likely to bother any farmer or any person looking forward
to venture into managu farming for commercial purposes. Managu farming in Kenya
is proving to be a profitable venture for many farmers, largely due to the high
demand for this nutritious leafy vegetable. Market demand for managu remains
robust, particularly in urban areas like Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu and
Eldoret. Farmers can sell their produce directly to wholesale buyers or at
local markets, with prices per kilo ranging from ksh30 to ksh50 depending on
the season and quality. The cost of managu production is relatively low with
the basic requirements being seeds, fertilizers and labour. Managu is resilient
and requires minimal maintenance compared to other crops, making it
cost-effective to cultivate. In overall, managu farming offers a significant
return on investment due to its low input cost and high market demand. With
proper management and market research, farmers can achieve substantial
profitability from this crop.
Step by step process for planting managu
Planting
black nightshade in Kenya involves several steps, from soil preparation to
harvesting.
i.
Soil preparation
This
step involves two major processes, one being soil testing and the other land
preparation. Soil testing involves conducting a test to determine pH and
nutrient levels. Managu thrives in soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.6
Once
the soil tests of the area are positive or they have been adjusted accordingly,
you begin to plough and harrow the soil to create a fine tilth. You can apply
well-composted manure about two weeks before planting.
ii.
Seed selection and nursery Preparation
In
seed selection, use certified seeds to ensure diseases-free plants. In the case
where you want to purchase ready to plant seedlings, make sure to get them from
certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. You can contact them on
0724698357/0723213602 to place your order.
For
those who choose to propagate the seeds themselves, you can use seeding trays,
or you can germinate them from a nursery bed. When doing a nursery bed
preparation, you prepare a seedbed by digging, levelling, and mixing the soil
with well-rotted compost. Make shallow drills 10-20cm apart and sow the seeds,
then cover them lightly with soil. Once they have germinated, water regularly
and thin the seedlings after about 4-7 days. The seedlings are ready for
transplanting when they reach a height of about 10-15cm and when their stems
look strong enough.
iii.
Transplanting
When
transplanting, use a spacing of 30cm by 10cm. Once you have transplanted,
ensure adequate irrigation until the seedlings are well established.
iv.
Irrigation
Drip
irrigation is ideal for efficient water use. Overhead irrigation can also be
used but it may increase fungal diseases risk. Regular watering should be
practised to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry periods to avoid
waterlogging which can lead to root rot.
v.
Harvesting
Harvesting
of managu leaves begins about 6-8weeks after planting. Tender leaves are picked
by hand. It is important to ensure a consistent harvest so as to encourage new
growth and also prolong the productive period.
Common
pests and diseases that affect managu plants
Aphids-
They cause curling, yellowing and distortion of leaves. They also give a
symptom of sticky honeydew on leaves.
Spider
mites- Common symptoms are stippling and yellowing of leaves,
webbing on the underside of leaves.
Caterpillars- They
cause holes in the leaves and defoliation.
White
flies- It causes yellowing of leaves and the presence of sooty
mold that is often caused by honeydew secretion.
Leaf
miners- Common symptoms are irregular, winding trails on
leaves.
Powdery
mildew- Common symptoms are white powdery spots on leaves,
leading to leaf curling and distortion.
Leaf
spot-
It causes brown, black or yellow spots on leaves leading to leaf drop.
Also Read:Amaranth( Terere) Farming in Kenya
