Malkia Curly Kale Farming in Kenya: Why You Need Malkia Curly Kales in Your Farm

Malkia Curly kale popularly known as ‘Sukuma matumbo’ in Kenya is a specific kale variety of elongated leaves with wavy to curly margins. Just like other kale varieties, Malkia Kale is believed to have originated in the Eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor. It is an early maturing kale variety that produces large sized leaves and is known for its high yield.

Malkia Curly Kale

Ideal climatic conditions for Malkia Curly Kale farming in Kenya

Curly kale thrives in cool climates with temperatures ranging between 15 to 24 degrees Celsius. It does well in well-drained fertile soils that are rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH(6.0-7.0).

Step by step process for planting Malkia Curly Kale.

1.       Soil Preparation

ü  Choose well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

ü  Ensure a slightly acidic to neutral Ph (6.0-7.0).

ü  Till (dig up) the soil to obtain a soft and fine texture.

2.       Seedling transplanting

ü  Obtain ready to plant seedlings from Richfarm Kenya: simply call them on 0724698357 / 0723213602 / 0798919007 to order your seedlings. 

ü  Make a small hole on the prepared soil; just enough to cover the root bud of the seedling. Be sure not to burry the seedling too deep. 

3.       Spacing

ü  Space seedlings 30 to 45 cm (12-18 inches) apart for proper growth. We recommend that you space the lines 45 cm from each other and the plants 30cm from each other. 

4.       Watering

ü  Keep the soil consistently moist but not water-logged. Being a leafy vegetable, overhead irrigation using a sprinkler would be the best method to irrigate. 

5.       Timing

ü  The kale should be planted in a season with favourable growing conditions. Plant your seedlings when temperatures are between 15-24 degree Celsius for optimal growth. If it isn't raining, ensure that you sufficiently water the soils before doing the actual seedling transplanting. 

6.       Pest and Disease management

ü  Regularly inspect for pests and diseases. Address any issues promptly. See the pest and disease management section below to learn about the common pests and diseases affacting Malkia curly kale farmers in Kenya and how to control them. 

7.       Harvesting

ü  Harvest by picking outer leaves first, leaving the central bud intact.

Watering requirements.

A farmer should aim at keeping the soil consistently moist for Malkia kale through regular watering while ensuring there is a good airflow, and the soil is not waterlogged. However, the watering frequency will depend on the weather conditions- hotter and drier climates may require more frequent watering as opposed to wet and cooler regions. Watering deeply ensures strong root development. Mulching is also encouraged around the kale to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Why should you consider growing Malkia Curly Kale?

·      It produces a high yield.

·      It is an early maturing kale variety.

Nutritional benefits of Malkia Curly Kale.

Sukuma wiki being one of the most consumed vegetable in Kenya, Malkia curly kale specifically has earned itself more popularity in the recent times due to its high nutritional value. It’s a nutrient powerhouse if we may say. It is rich in Vitamin A, C and K along with nutrients like Calcium and Potassium. What a fantastic additional to a healthy diet!

Pest and Diseases

Infected Malkia Curly Kale

Common pests for Malkia Curly kale include aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles. Diseases like powdery mildew and downy mildew can also occur. A farmer should purpose to use organic pesticides, practise crop rotation, and maintain good plant hygiene to manage them.

                                                                      

Something you probably didn’t know about Malkia Kale.

Beyond salads, it can be used in smoothies, soups, or even baked into crispy kale chips. Its nutrient density and ability to thrive in various dishes makes it a culinary gem.

Experts at the Sim law seeds under the KENYA SEED COMPANY stated that it has lesser acid properties than the other kale varieties hence it is considered best for ulcer patients.

Why You Should Never Use Sawdust To Mulch Your Crops

Mulching, especially when growing fruit trees, is one of the most important practises. Commonly, we use dry organic matter such as leaves and grass. One would therefore think that it is also good to use sawdust. However, using sawdust as mulch for plants is generally not advisable for several reasons:

Mulching with sawdust is not recommended

1. Nitrogen depletion: Sawdust is high in carbon and low in nitrogen. When sawdust is used as mulch, it uses up nitrogen as it slowly decomposes. This deprives your plants of the much needed nitrogen. You will notice your plants get stunted and start turning yellow due to nitrogen deficiency. 
2. Acidification of the soil: As sawdust breaks down, it releases organic acids, lowering the pH of your soils below the recommended levels. Most plants prefer a slightly acidic or neutral pH range.
3. Compaction leading to poor soil drainage: Sawdust tends to get compressed easily forming a dense mulch layer that prevents water penetration and air circulation in the soil. If you turn a hip of sawdust after the rains, you will be surprised to find that the lower layers are still completely dry. That is exactly what happens when you mulch with sawdust of wood chippings. Your soils will most often not get water and air circulation beneath the mulch will be very poor. This in turn inhibits the nutrient uptake by your plants. 
4. Disease causing organisms: Sawdust mulch can provide conducive environment for the growth and multiplication of disease causing organisms such as fungus. The acidity caused by the decomposing sawdust can also kill beneficial soil microbes that the plant needs for healthy growth. 
5. Attracting termites: Finally, the smell of dry wood will be a loud invitation to the destructive termites we all fear. The dry conditions underneath the sawdust is a haven for termite activity. If you have planted fruit trees, this will be the start of trouble with these sharp-clawed insects. 

However, note that mixed with other organic materials in a small ration, sawdust can be an excellent mulch. A thin layer of sawdust sprinkled over the soil surface of strawberry farm would also help keep away slugs that love to munch into the berries. 

Dragon Fruit Farming In Sudan: The Basics You Need To Get Started

Very little has been done with regards to dragon fruit farming in Sudan, despite the country having great potential in the production of the fruit. In the Eastern Africa region, Kenya is the only country with substantial investments in dragon fruit farming and the farmers there are reaping big from this sweet super-food.

A Well Established Dragon Fruit Farm

The Missed Opportunity

Having realised the opportunity being missed in Sudan and having received a few requests from the country to help in setting up dragon fruit farms there, I have decided to start by providing you and all other potential dragon fruit farmers in Sudan with these basic steps in setting up their orchards.

What is Dragon Fruit?

Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a highly profitable crop going by the experience we get from our neighbours in Kenya. It is loved because of its sweet taste, numerous health benefits and the many different ways in which it can be used. 

Dragon fruit: This is the red variety

Basic For Successful Dragon Fruit Farming in Sudan

Here are basic things you need to know as you start your dragon fruit farm in Sudan:

1. Type of soil: Dragon fruits are not very selective with regards to soil. They grow well in all types of soils as long as the plant roots are not soaked in water. They also love soils with a lot of nitrogen, so give them a lot of manure. Chicken manure works best for this.
2. Number of Seedlings per Acre: You need at least 2,000 seedlings to fill up an acre. Remember, dragon fruit vines are planted on supporting structures which can be made of concreate or wooden poles: some people also use plastic poles while other use live plants as the support. I recommend the use of wooden poles because they are more readily available and cheap.

   

   Wooden dragon fruit posts

   
   
3. Distance Between Seedlings: The recommended distance between the support structures on which you will plant your vines is 2 by 2 meters. This means you will need 1,000 poles for an acre of land. On each pole, you plant 2 seedlings on either side. That is how we arrive at 2000 seedlings per acre. However, some farmers prefer to plant 3 or 4 seedlings on each pole, then have each plant carry fewer branches. This can be advantageous in terms of fruit size and quality.

   

   Dragon fruit spacing is 2 by 2 meters: 2 plants are put in each pole

   
   
4. Irrigation Method: While dragon fruit plants do not require a lot of water, consistent and well-managed irrigation can help you achieve higher yields and a continuous harvest. Drip irrigation is the best to use for dragon fruit farming, as it allows you to control the water supply efficiently. Make sure to provide adequate water, especially during the growing season. However, be careful not to soak the soils too much as your plants will start rotting away.

   

   Drip irrigation is best for dragon fruit farming in Sudan

   
   
5. Improved Seeds: Dragon fruits can be grown from cuttings or seeds. However, we recommend growing dragon fruits from cuttings of mature plants, as this method ensures the new plant's characteristics are the same as those of the parent plant. Dragon fruits plants raised from cuttings also mature faster – in about 9 months – while those raised from seeds can take as long as 7 years to give the first fruits. We have the seedlings ready for transplanting and you can order to have them sent to Khartoum: Contact us through Whatsapp +254724698357.

   

   Ready to plant dragon fruit seedlings

   
   
6. Production Time from Transplanting of Seedlings: As we have stated, dragon fruit plants raised from cuttings will start yielding in about 9 months. In cooler places, they usually start producing fruit within 1 to 2 years after planting from seedlings. This duration is also dependent on other growing conditions, care, and the variety you choose. It may take longer if you do not provide sufficient nutrients and water.
7. Canopy for Dragon Fruit: In Sudan, you might consider providing some form of partial shading or canopy for your dragon fruit plants. While they do well in full sun in many areas, in very hot and arid regions, some shading can help protect the plants from excessive sun and heat. You do this by growing them under a shade-net as shown in the photo below. However, this is not absolutely necessary.
8. Help in setting up the dragon fruit farm: We are always ready to help you and with proper arrangements we can even send you one of our field officers to help you in setting up your dragon fruit farm in Sudan.
9. Farm Size: It's great that you're planning for a 5-acre dragon fruit farm. This is a significant size and can potentially yield good returns if managed well wit help from Richfarm Kenya. The investment thereof is also substantial. We shall share with you some projected cash-flows to give you an insight of the capital requirements.

Remember to conduct soil tests, assess local climate conditions, and consider any local regulations or guidelines before establishing your dragon fruit farm. Also, consulting with local agricultural experts or agricultural extension services can provide valuable insights for successful dragon fruit cultivation in Sudan. Good luck with your dragon fruit farming venture!

Custard Apple Farming in Kenya: How To Grow Matomoko For Profit

Custard apple, scientifically known as Annona squamosa, locally known as Matomoko, is a tropical fruit revered for its luscious taste and numerous health benefits. They are known for their rough texture and their pale green colour. With the rising demand for exotic fruits worldwide, custard apple farming has gained momentum as a lucrative entrepreneurial endeavour. 

Custard apple farming

Where to farm custard apple in Kenya

The fruit thrives in warm climates with an annual rainfall of at least 800mm. It requires regular irrigation, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages, to ensure it gives you big, juicy and high quality fruits. With irrigation, it can be grown even in hot arid or semi-arid environments. However, relatively warm temperatures are recommended for suitable fruition. 

Where to get custard apple seedlings in Kenya

You can make your own custard apple seedlings through various techniques, including seed germination, air layering, and grafting. Each method offers specific advantages and drawbacks, and careful consideration should be given to ensure sustainable production. Seedling propagation is the most cost-effective but has a more extended gestation period, while grafting allows for the preservation of desired traits and accelerates tree maturity. Grafted seedlings become commercially viable within two years. 

However, the easiest way to get mature, healthy, ready-to-plant seedlings is by ordering them from Richfarm Kenya nurseries in Embu or Naivasha; you can reach us on 0724698357 or 0723213602.

Common pests and diseases challenging custard apples farmers in Kenya

 

When you get into custard apple farming in Kenya, the common pests to expect include fruit borer, scale insects, and mites, while fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and anthracnose are prevalent. But do not let these challenges scare you; you can easily deal with them by employing integrated pest management strategies involving biological control methods, cultural practices, and judicious use of pesticides. We have written detailed instructions for you on all these pest and disease control methods which you can read by following those links. 

How to plant your custard apples professionally

 

You want a successful and profitable custard apple farm; so let me guide you through a simple step-by-step way of achieving this. 

1. Choose your site well: open fields that receive a lot of sunlight are best for farming custard apples. The soils should be deep and well drained, with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
2. Test your soil: for a good start in custard apple, you must provide the young seedlings sufficient amounts of all the nutrients they need. You can only be sure of the nutrients you need to add by testing your soils. You can call in agronomists from Richfarm Kenya to help you out with this. 
3. Prepare your planting holes well: the ideal hole is 2 feet wide and 2 feet deep. Use the 5x5m spacing if you want the trees to grow without much need for pruning. However, I recommend the 3x3m spacing and regular pruning to achieve high yield and big fruits. Use the top soil of your farm, mixed well with animal or farmyard manure to fill up the hole, leaving only about 10cm for irrigation. 
4. Irrigate your seedlings sufficiently: please be careful not to over-irrigate the trees. While young seedlings require quite a substantial amount of water for proper establishment, irrigating 2 to 3 times during the dry season is technically enough. 
5. Mulch: use dry grass or other plant remains to cover the soil around the base of your plants. This will help you retain the soil moisture. The decomposing mulch will also add organic matter to the soil. 
6. Prune your trees: having done all the above, your trees will be growing fast and producing many branches. While the lush growth is beautiful to the eye, it is important to remove some of the branches to achieve an open canopy that allows free flow of air and penetration of sunlight. 

Your custard apple trees will start flowering in the second year if you plant healthy grafted seedlings. They flower once a year. Flowering is preceded by the shedding of leaves in September, but with irrigation or good rains, flowering and fruit formation can start earlier. Commercial productivity is often achieved from the third year. 

Ensure you observe accurate timing of custard apple harvesting to enjoy optimum quality and flavour. Typically, the fruit is picked when it changes colour from green to pale yellow or whitish, indicating ripeness. Since custard apple is a delicate fruit, be careful in handling the ripe fruits to minimise post-harvest losses. Using sharp tools and gentle handling techniques, such as avoiding excessive pressure and bruising, helps ensure the fruit's integrity.

 

Custard apples have relatively short shelf lives due to their high water content and perishable nature. Cold storage and controlled atmosphere techniques can help extend their shelf life by reducing physiological changes and microbial growth.

Is custard apple farming in Kenya profitable?

Yes, custard apple farming is one of the most rewarding forms of fruit farming in Kenya. Let us give you an overview of the expected costs and returns here:

·        Cost per seedling- Ksh. 300

·        Seedlings per acre -150

·        Spacing - 5m by 5m

·        Common pest- fruit borer, scale insects, and mites

·        Common diseases- powdery mildew and anthracnose

·        Fruit price- Ksh80-130 per kilo

·        Yield- 700kgs or 100 fruits per tree

·        Lifespan - 30 years plus

 

The reason why many people are attracted by custard apple farming in Kenya is not only its profitability. This fruits also delicious and offer several health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of custard apples:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Custard apples are a good source of essential nutrients especially  vitamin C and vitamin A, minerals (potassium and magnesium), and dietary fiber which aids in digestion and prevents constipation. 
2. Heart Health: The potassium content in custard apples helps regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of heart diseases. Additionally, the dietary fiber we mentioned earlier helps lower cholesterol levels.
3. Immune System Support: The high vitamin C content in custard apples is beneficial for the immune system. It helps the body fight off infections and illnesses.
4. Antioxidant Properties: Custard apples are rich in antioxidants, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and slow the aging process.
5. Skin Health: The vitamin A in custard apples is important for maintaining healthy skin and vision. It can also help prevent skin conditions like acne and promote a glowing complexion.
6. Digestive Health: The fiber in custard apples aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help alleviate digestive problems like indigestion and constipation.
7. Energy Boost: The natural sugars in custard apples provide a quick source of energy, making them a great snack option, especially for those with active lifestyles.
8. Bone Health: The presence of calcium and magnesium in custard apples contributes to healthy bones and teeth.
9. Aid for Anemia: Custard apples contain iron, which can be beneficial for individuals with anemia or those at risk of iron deficiency.
10. Anti-Inflammatory: Some compounds found in custard apples may have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful for conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
11. Nervous System Support: Custard apples contain vitamin B6, which is essential for a healthy nervous system and brain function.

However, never consume custard apple seeds as they are considered poisonous and diabetic persons should take small quantities of the fruit due to the high starch content.

Grapes Farming: How To Make Your Grapevines Produce a Lot of Flowers That Mature to Fruits

How to prevent grapevines from aborting flowers is one of the queries we have been getting quite frequently. A few grape farmers in Kenya have also had scenarios in which their vines take too long before they start flowering. So we have compiled a list of 10 important things that you should do to ensure your vines produce a lot of flowers and maintain them to give you a bumper harvest. 

Grapes Farming in Kenya: Heavy Flowers

Please note that flower abortion can occur due to various reasons: we have often picked out nutrient deficiencies, poor irrigation schedules and pest infestations as the 3 main causes. We shall delve deeper into these as we also explore other possible causes and their solutions. 

Here are some steps you should take to reduce the likelihood of your grapevines aborting  flower:

1. Site Selection: Plant your grapevines in a location that receives adequate sunlight, has good air circulation, and proper drainage. Adequate sunlight is essential for flowering and fruiting. and must not be compromised. 
2. Pruning: Proper pruning is often overlooked but is very crucial in inducing flowering and helping the vine keep the flowers. Prune your grapevines during the dormant season (that is after harvesting) to remove excess canes and maintain an open canopy. This allows for better air circulation and light penetration.
3. Fertilisation: Ensure your grapevines receive the necessary nutrients, especially during the growing season. We have always emphasised the need for soil testing since it is the only way to find out if your soils have balanced nutrients as needed by your grape vines. Carry out a soil test at least once a year to determine nutrient deficiencies and adjust your fertilisation regimen accordingly.
4. Irrigation: Consistent and appropriate irrigation is essential to prevent water stress. Grapevines should receive regular, deep watering to maintain soil moisture. However, you should be careful to avoid waterlogged soils as these might also cause flower abortion or a complete loss of the plant all together.
5. Pest and Disease Management: Pests and diseases are a serious cause of flower abortion in grape vines. Hence you must ensure that you conduct regular scouting across your farm to identify any pests or diseases that might be there. Then implement an appropriate pest and disease management program matching the specific pests or diseases that have been identified. While powdery mildew, downy mildew and insects are the most common threats, I do not encourage following a specific spray program blindly. Identify the problem and implement its appropriate solution.  
6. Thinning Clusters: If you notice that your grapevines have excessive flower clusters, consider thinning them out. This allows the vine to allocate resources more effectively the clusters you choose to retain. This helps in reducing the risk of losing the flowers you desire.
7. Pollination: Ensure that pollinators (e.g., bees) have access to your grapevines during flowering to aid in successful pollination. Avoid the use of pesticides that may harm beneficial insects.
8. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly inspect your grapevines for signs of stress, disease, or insect damage. Adjust your care regimen accordingly to address any issues promptly.
9. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your grapevines to help maintain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Mulch also improves soil structure over time.
10. Training and Trellising: Properly train and trellis your grapevines to ensure good air circulation and support for the growing vines and fruit clusters. 

Remember that grapevine care is an ongoing process, and it's essential to monitor your vines regularly to address any issues as they arise. By implementing these steps, you can reduce the likelihood of grapevine flower abortion and increase your chances of a successful grape harvest.

Pomegranate Farming in Kenya: A Guide To Making It A Profitable Venture

Pomegranate farming in Kenya is now becoming popular, most farmers attracted mostly by the potential returns: pomegranate is one of the most expensive fruits in Kenya at the moment. However, a growing awareness on the health benefits of pomegranate among Kenyans is also playing an important role in the uptake of its cultivation by even small scale farmers. 

Pomegranate farming in Kenya: A rising trend in agribusiness

Pomegranate, scientifically known as Punica Granatum belongs to the Lythraceae family and has been grown for centuries in various parts of the world, especially Asia. Iran and India are the leading producers of the fruit worldwide. In Africa, Egypt is the largest producer of pomegranates which are an important income earner in the country's agricultural industry. 

Why is Pomegranate farming in Kenya growing so fast?

Pomegranates are known for their vibrant red colour, unique flavour and numerous health benefits. In recent years, the demand for pomegranates in Kenya and the world over has significantly increased due to their rising popularity as a superfood. As a result, pomegranate farming has become an attractive industry for many farmers globally, Kenya not being left behind.

Climatic requirements for pomegranate farming

One of the main advantages of pomegranate farming is the plant's ability to thrive in diverse climatic conditions. Pomegranate trees are relatively tolerant to cold and hot temperatures, making them adaptable to various regions. 

Pomegranate farming
in Embu

This adaptability has contributed to expanding pomegranate production to areas outside their historical origins, such as Mediterranean countries, California, India, and East Africa. 

In Kenya, pomegranates perform well in areas that experience warm to hot climates such as such as Machakos, Makueni, Kitui, North-eastern Kenya, warmer parts of Rift Valley such as Laikipia, parts of Central Kenya such as Nyeri, the coastal region, and most parts of Western Kenya. However, some farmers in the cooler Kikuyu and Banana areas are also successfully growing it. This resilience allows farmers to take advantage of favourable weather conditions and ensure a stable supply of pomegranates throughout the year. 

Soil type and nutrient requirements

Pomegranate trees need well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5.  A spacing of 3m by 4m is recommended when planting. The optimum temperatures for pomegranate farming ranges from 20-35 degrees Celsius. Higher temperatures are necessary during the fruit ripening period.  Adequate irrigation is crucial during the early stages of growth, but excessive watering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Healthy, certified seedlings can  be acquired from Richfarm Kenya nurseries in Naivasha or Embu; call them on 0724698357, 0723213602 or 0798919007.

Pomegranate seedlings for sale at Richfarm Kenya

Cultural practices in pomegranate farming

Pomegranate trees also require regular pruning to promote the development of a strong framework and allow sunlight to reach all parts of the tree. Additionally, you must monitor pests and diseases that can affect the crop, such as aphids, white flies, and fungal infections, to protect the tree and ensure high yield. 

Economic benefits of Pomegranate farming in Kenya

Pomegranate farming offers several economic benefits for farmers in Kenya:

1.   The demand for pomegranates continues to rise due to their nutritional value and various health benefits, such as being a good source of antioxidants and having potential anti-inflammatory properties. This growing demand results in higher market prices, making pomegranate farming profitable.

2.    Pomegranates have a long shelf life, allowing farmers to store and sell their produce throughout the year.

3. Pomegranates are used in various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, creating additional market opportunities for farmers. 

Environmental benefits of pomegranate farming in Kenya

Furthermore, pomegranate farming contributes positively to the environment. Some of the advantages of growing pomegranate trees are;

• Act as natural barriers against soil erosion due to their extensive root systems. These are the fruit trees you should plant if your farm is on a steep area. 
• Require fewer pesticides than other fruit crops, lowering the risk of harmful chemicals entering the environment. You also won't have to worry about the high cost of farming inputs.
• The deep red flowers of pomegranate trees attract pollinators, benefiting other nearby crops and wild plant species. You can also take advantage of this and set up bee hives with an assuarity of fast honey production. 
•  Moreover, pomegranate farming promotes sustainable agricultural practices, as it does not heavily rely on excessive water consumption or synthetic fertilizers.

Pests and diseases can severely impact crop yield if not managed effectively. You need to adopt sustainable and integrated pest management techniques to minimise pesticide use and maintain the health of the trees.  

Projected Cost and  Income for 1 acre 

• Cost per seedling Ksh. 200
• Seedlings per acre -330 
• Spacing - 3m by 4m
• Fruit price- Ksh. 1,500-1,700 per kg (retail)
• Yield- 12-20kgs per tree depending on age
• Pest- Pomegranate butterfly or Fruit borer, caterpillar
• Diseases- Bacterial leaf spot, fruit cracking
• Lifespan- 20 yrs plus

Pomegranate farming in Kenya is a promising agricultural practice due to the increasing demand for pomegranates and their various health benefits. This industry offers economic opportunities for farmers, as well as contributing to the environment through sustainable practices. 

However, the challenges faced by pomegranate farmers underscore the need for continuous research, better pest management strategies, and adaptation to changing climatic conditions. To get more information and high quality seedlings for your pomegranate farming project in Kenya, contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357 / 0723213602.

5 Reasons You Should Inter-Crop Pixie Oranges and Pawpaws in Kenya

Growing Pixie oranges and pawpaws together is an innovative approach that can yield numerous benefits to both crops. Pixie oranges, known for their sweet and juicy flavour, are a popular citrus variety. Similarly, pawpaws have gained popularity with their unique tropical taste in recent years. 

Pixie trees inter-cropped with pawpaw

You can optimise space, promote biodiversity, and enhance the ecosystem's overall health by cultivating these two plants together. In this article, let us explore the various advantages of growing pixie oranges and pawpaws together, highlighting this symbiotic relationship's ecological, economic, and horticultural aspects.

Advantages of Inter-cropping Pixie and Pawpaws 

1. Maximising Space - 1 farm producing 2 fruits at the same time

Cultivating Pixie oranges and pawpaws together maximises land utilisation. Both crops have almost similar growth requirements, such as climate and soil conditions. They both do well in warm or hot areas such as the ukambani counties of Makueni, Machakos and Kitui. The hot Baringo County is also hot on the trail and, gladly, also the coastal areas of Kwale and Taita Taveta are embracing pixie and pawpaw farming. 

A bit of irrigation may be necessary for pixie oranges, as they are less drought-resistant than pawpaws. By combining these two plants, a farmer can utilise the same plot of land for multiple harvests, ultimately achieving higher productivity per unit area. 

To successfully cultivate the two fruit trees together, Pixies would require a spacing of 5m by 6m, while pawpaws, which usually require a 2m by 2m spacing, would be grown between the pixie trees.

2. Ecological diversity - Attract more pollinators hence a bigger harvest

Moreover, growing these fruits together promotes ecological diversity. Each plant attracts different pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, thereby increasing the chances of successful cross-pollination. This intermingling of insect activity enhances the overall biodiversity of the area, leading to a healthier ecosystem and a more sustainable agricultural practice. Bugs like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are great deterrents for other pests that will eat your fruit crops.

3. Continuous income - When 1 fruit goes off-season, the other gives you money

You can benefit from the combination of these crops in terms of economics. Pawpaws have a much faster maturity rate than pixies, providing an earlier source of income. In hotter climates, pawpaws start producing as early as six months from planting, and pixie oranges will start producing in the second year. 

Additionally, by diversifying their produce, farmers can tap into different market segments, and ensure that they are always selling something. for example, in most of the hot areas, the peak production season for pawpaw spans the months of November through to March. The pixie peak season then sets in from April through to September. Hence a farmer who has both of these trees on his land increase sales and revenue streams.

4. Reduced risk of loss due to pests and diseases outbreak

Growing pawpaw and pixie oranges together reduces the risk of a farmer being thrown out of business due to an outbreak of a specific pest or disease. Pixie oranges and pawpaw trees have distinctive pest profiles, meaning pests and diseases affecting one crop may not necessarily affect the other. Hence, by planting the two fruit trees on the same land,  farmers reduce the risks associated with the outbreak of a specific pest. 

Inter-cropping pixie and pawpaw also disrupts the build-up of pests and diseases by creating a more diverse environment, hence minimising the use of pesticides and promoting a more environmentally friendly farming practice.

5. Efficient soil nutrient utilisation - pawpaws eat from the top layer, pixie roots search deeper

Pixie orange and pawpaw inter-cropping offers an opportunity to fine-tune soil conditions. Pixie trees have deeper root systems, capable of accessing nutrients in lower soil layers. As a result, they alleviate nutrient competition among the pawpaw  trees, ensuring a more balanced nutrient availability throughout the growing season. This synergy helps maintain the health and vigour of the plants, ultimately leading to better fruit quality and enhanced harvests.

Detailed information on pixie fruit farming in Kenya can be found on; Pixie Orange Farming: A Worthy Investment For The Year 2023.

Read also for pawpaw farming in Kenya; Pawpaws Make You Money While Asking For Very Little Input From You.

NOTE:

• • An integrated pest management system is necessary as you will deal with more than one pest type.
  • Integration of Hass avocado with pawpaws can be practised in warm climates. Avocados do well in cool to warm climates as opposed to pawpaws, which do well in warm to hot temperatures.
  • The main crop should be avocado or pixie; pawpaw should be used to generate cash-flows as early as month six to supplement the primary crop and cushion the farmer. Additional income can be used to expand primary crop acreage or employ economic practices such as drip irrigation, solar-powered water pumping, digging a self-sufficient borehole, and having a huge capacity dam.
  • It is always advisable to have a good area for expansion as fruit farming is a very profitable venture.
  • More farmyard manure or organic fertilisers should be applied from time to time to improve fertility and balance competition.