Fruits Rich in Antioxidants: Healthy Choices in 2024

Rumour has it that your favourite 'Uji Power' vendor might add some mild contents of the infamous blue pill that has had 'retired soldiers succumb in the line of duty' by raising their blood pressure.Well, don't start grumbling just yet; a legit uji power vendor wouldn't want to lose a customer. The effects of having a healthy diet do not kick in immediately; that's why it should be suspicious to feel the power within a short period. Be on the lookout.

A calabash of uji power.

Having that in mind, you need to be sure of the source of your power; what other way, if not planting some fruit crops that will give you countless health benefits which you can convert to financial benefits by selling the surplus? There's an unpopular notion that you must have big chunks of land to practice fruit crop farming, but that might not be true. Several fruit crops can be planted on small ground and still fetch a good fortune. Fruits rich in antioxidants are only needed in small quantities for daily nutritional needs. You can grow several trees and sell the surplus. You will also note that those fruits are expensive on supermarket shelves.

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which have been linked to various chronic diseases. We can have a look at some of the fruits you can grow in your backyard or that 50 by 100 plot that will have you smiling for the excellent health benefits and also have your neighbour at your doorsteps holding some cheddarfor a pack of these fruits.

1)    Blueberries

Blueberries are celebrated as a superfood due to their impressive antioxidant content, specifically anthocyanins. These potent antioxidants provide numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Additionally, blueberries support brain health by improving memory and cognitive function.

Blueberry Farming in Kenya

2)    Strawberries

Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and contain an array of antioxidants, including ellagic acid. These antioxidants have been linked to reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and decreased risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes. The high fiber content in strawberries also promotes healthy digestion.

Strawberry Farming Guide

3)      Pomegranates

Pomegranates contain potent antioxidants called punicalagins, which have strong anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Regular consumption of pomegranate has been linked to improved heart health, lowered blood pressure, and enhanced antioxidant status.

Pomegranate Farming in Kenya

4)    Blackberries

Blackberries possess a wide range of antioxidants, including anthocyanins and ellagic acid. These compounds help fight oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer. Blackberries promote healthy skin, aid digestion, and support a healthy immune system.

5)    Cranberries

Cranberries are well-known for their high concentration of antioxidants, mainly phenolic compounds. These antioxidants are associated with preventing urinary tract infections, improving oral health, and reducing the risk of certain cancers. Cranberries also support digestive health and promote the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system.

6)    Cherries

Cherries, especially tart cherries, are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins and quercetin. These antioxidants possess anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis and gout. Cherries also aid in sleep regulation and recovery after exercise.

7)    Oranges

Oranges are renowned for their high vitamin C content, offering potent antioxidant benefits to the body. The antioxidants in oranges help improve immune function, support cardiovascular health, and promote healthy skin. Additionally, oranges contain other essential nutrients vital for overall well-being.

Pixie Orange Farming

8)    Kiwis

Kiwis are packed with antioxidants, including vitamin E and flavonoids, crucial in maintaining optimal health. These antioxidants enhance immune function, aid digestion, and promote heart health. Kiwis are also known for their high fiber content, contributing to healthy weight management.

The Basics of Kiwi Fruit Farming in Kenya

9)    Apples

Apples contain a diverse range of antioxidants, including quercetin and catechins. These antioxidants have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, improved lung function, and protection against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Apples also support a healthy gut due to their fiber content.

Apple Farming in Kenya

10) Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit contains the antioxidants betacyanin and betaxanthins. These compounds neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals are compounds in the body that can cause cell damage. The actions of betacyanin and betaxanthins can prevent free radicals from causing further damage. The antioxidant activity of dragon fruit can be helpful in preventing inflammatory conditions in the body. These include gout and other forms of arthritis.

Dragon Fruit Farming

As you may have noted, berries have dominated our top ten fruits high in antioxidants. Most of these berries grow as shrubs, so you do not have to worry about them overgrowing in your backyard if you prune effectively. Minimal spacing is required.

Since we are discussing healthy options, I might sneak in another antioxidant-rich plant that is not a fruit.

Stevia

Stevia for sale in Kenya.

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Research suggests that stevia may offer numerous health benefits compared to traditional table sugar. For instance, stevia contains zero calories, making it an attractive option for individuals attempting to manage their weight or reduce calorie intake. Additionally, stevia does not contribute to tooth decay, unlike sugar, which can lead to dental cavities. Furthermore, stevia has been shown to possess antioxidant properties, which may help counteract the damaging effects of free radicals in the body. These potential health benefits make stevia an intriguing substitute for sugar, especially in a health-conscious society seeking alternatives to highly processed ingredients.

Stevia Farming in Kenya

One of the most distinctive features of stevia is its negligible impact on blood sugar levels. Unlike sugar, which causes a rapid increase in blood glucose levels, stevia does not cause significant fluctuations in sugar levels. This quality makes stevia an appealing option for individuals with diabetes or those who need to monitor their blood sugar levels. Additionally, stevia may be used as a safe alternative for individuals with insulin resistance or hypoglycemia, as it does not elicit the same glycemic response as sugar.

You can acquire healthy seedlings and more information on how to grow these crops from Richfarm Kenya; call us on 0724698357 or 0723213602.

How To Grow Sweet Pawpaws: Improving The Sweetness Of Your Pawpaws

"Kwa nini pawpaw zangu si tamu? (Why are my pawpaws not sweet?)". This is a question we have gotten quite a number of times. Growing pawpaws is easy but producing sweet ones for home consumption or commercial purposes is a dream for many. What many farmers don't know is that growing pawpaws with perfect sweetness is more of a science than an art. Let me walk you through simple steps to make your pawpaws burst with natural sweetness.

A serving of sweet pawpaw from Richfarm Kenya

So to grow sweet pawpaws in Kenya, ensure you do the following: 

1. Choose the right climate

Pawpaws thrive in warm or hot climates, where temperatures range from 21°C to 35°C. While it is possible to grow pawpaws in relatively lower temperatures, providing the a suitable temperature range promotes optimal sugar accumulation and sweetness.

2. Choose the right pawpaw variety

When it comes to growing sweet pawpaws, the choice of the right variety sets the stage for a flavor-filled journey. You know we still have those big traditional pawpaws that are almost bitter, right? Choosing the right variety does not only play a crucial role in determining the sweetness, but also the texture, and overall flavour of your pawpaws. Some varieties are renowned for their sugary profiles, while others offer unique flavor notes. You can read on How to Choose The Best Pawpaw Variety For Your Farm to get more information on that. Get your healthy ready-to-plant sweet pawpaw seedlings and seed varieties from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. Kindly call or WhatsApp 0724698357/0723213602/0798919007 to make your order.

3. Check your soil quality 

The foundation of growing sweet pawpaws or any other fruit or crop lies beneath the surface - in the soil. Choosing the right soil type and ensuring its quality can make all the difference in nurturing a bounty of delicious fruits. Pawpaw trees thrive in well-draining sandy or sandy-loam soils that have a proper balance of essential nutrients. 

The soil should be amended with organic matter like compost, to enhance fertility and structure. A pH level of between 5.5 and 7 is ideal for pawpaw growth. Soil composition directly affects the tree’s ability to absorb essential nutrients for fruit flavour development.

We have given you some details on how to ensure high soil quality for fruit farming in this article: How To Grow Sweet Fruits And Keep Your Customers Coming Back For More 

4. Ensure correct fertilizer application 

We often overlook the need for applying fertilizers on our pawpaw trees because they seem to keep growing with little intervention. However, timely and effective replenishment of the used-up nutrients is one of the key practices in growing irresistibly sweet pawpaws. 

During the early stages - immediately after transplanting - apply fertilizers that are richer in nitrogen. 3 months after transplanting, start applying a balanced fertilizer like NPK 17:17:17 to supply all the nutrients the pawpaw trees need for various developmental needs. During flowering and fruiting, which comes about 6 months after transplanting, give the trees fertilizers that are richer in potassium (element K) such as Multi-K.

5. Ensure correct irrigation schedules

Pawpaw irrigation should be consistent and adequate. While pawpaws do not need a lot of water, they appreciate moist soil but do not tolerate soggy grounds. Allow the soil to dry up slightly between watering sessions to strike the right balance. 

Extreme fluctuations in soil moisture can however impact the fruit quality and general productivity of the tree, so a farmer should strive to ensure a stable water supply. The only way to ensure know that it is time to irrigate, is by physically checking the soil: scoop a handful of soil from just below the surface and squeeze it in your hand. If you are left with soil sticking on your palm, the pawpaw trees still have enough water. 

6. Keep Mealybugs and fungal diseases away at all costs

You can observe steps 1 to 5 of growing sweet pawpaws and have all your efforts go to the drain by simply letting those white wooly pests called mealybugs suck out all the sweetness from your fruits. That is also what fungal diseases do. 

The good thing is that these two challenges are easy to control if the first five steps are well observed. There are  very safe organic and chemical products that are available in agro-vet shops: we shall do a detailed article to guide in this later but if you need help on this, you can always call us on 0724698357 / 0723213602 / 0798919007.

Cherry Guava Farming In Kenya: A Simple Guide For The Early Birds

Cherry guava also known as Strawberry guava, is a vibrant red or yellow guava that is now being farmed by only a few early birds in Kenya. This sweet variety of guava is said to have originated from Brazil. In Kenya, this delightful fruit has gained popularity for its sweet taste and nutritional value. Known for its sweet and aromatic flavor, cherry guava has become a sought-after exotic fruit in the Kenyan market. The rising interest in diverse and nutritious fruits has contributed to the increasing popularity of cherry guava.

A cherry guava plant.

Ideal soils and climatic conditions for the growth of Cherry Guava

Cherry guavas thrive in sandy or loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soils should be slightly acid to neutral with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. Good drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can adversely affect the roots.

Cherry guavas flourish best in areas with full sunlight and temperatures of between 25°C to 30°C. While it can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures, frost can cause you serious losses in cherry guava farming.

Cherry guava requires consistent rainfall or access to irrigation during the dry seasons. Adequate water supply is particularly crucial during flowering, fruiting stages, and all other important processes of a plant.

How do I cultivate my cherry guava?

Cultivating cherry guavas involves several key steps such as:

1.    Site selection

ü  Choose a well-drained location with full sunlight exposure.

ü  Ensure the soil in that site is rich in organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral pH, and has good drainage.

2.    Planting

ü  Cherry guavas can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. When planting either of them, it is very necessary to ensure proper spacing between the plants.

3.    Watering

ü  Provide regular and consistent watering, especially during dry periods. However, avoid waterlogging since cherry guavas prefers well- drained soil.

4.    Application of fertilizers

ü  During the growing season, it is necessary to use balanced fertilizers to support healthy plant development.

ü  Incorporate organic matter into the soil for added nutrients.

5.    Pruning

ü  Regular pruning is important as it helps shape the plant, control its size, and enhance fruit production.

ü  It helps in removal of dead or diseased branches to maintain overall plant health.

6.    Pest and Disease management

Cherry guavas are susceptible to various pests that include.

·      Aphids

Aphids feed on the sap of the cherry guava leaves, causing distortion and stunted growth.

·      Fruit flies

They lay eggs on the ripening guavas, leading to damage and potential loss.

·      White flies

These insects feed on the plant sap and can transmit diseases, leading to reduced plant vigor.

·      Scale insects

Scale insects also feed on the plant sap, resulting in reduced vigor, yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and wilting.

Implementing preventive measures such as regular inspection, maintaining plant health, and using organic or chemical controls, when necessary, can help manage these pests effectively. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies can be employed to minimize the impact of pests on the cherry guavas.

Maturity period for cherry guava.

The maturity period for cherry guava can vary depending on factors such as the specific variety of cherry guava, growing conditions, and cultivation practices but it generally begins to produce fruits within 2 or 3 years after planting.

Regular pruning and proper care during the early years can contribute to earlier fruiting. Once the cherry guava reaches maturity, harvesting time becomes regular.

Nutritional benefits.

Cherry guava is not only a tasty fruit but also packs a nutritional punch. It is rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and aids in collagen production. It also contains dietary fiber which aids in digestion, promotes bowel movement, and contributes to a feeling of fullness. Cherry guavas are also rich in Vitamin A and E which play a role in maintaining healthy skin, vision, and overall immune functions.

Peaches Farming in Kenya: Farming For Wealth and Health

Peaches farming in Kenya has attracted both backyard growers keen on getting the health benefits of the fruit and commercial farmers seeking to take advantage of the growing market. With a climate conducive to peach cultivation and a fast-growing demand for this delectable fruit, Kenyan farmers are finding new opportunities in peach orchards. We are sure this is one of the agribusiness opportunities you would like to explore so let us help you understand the various aspects of peach farming, from climate considerations to market trends.

A Productive peach plant

Best climate and soil conditions for peach farming in Kenya

Kenya’s tropical climate offers ideal conditions for the cultivation of the peach plant. Peaches thrive best in regions with a temperate climate, experiencing high or average rainfall and temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Peaches can also grow in hotter areas but production reduces if the trees are exposed to very high temperatures over prolonged periods. 

Well-drained soils preferably loamy or sandy, contribute to the health and productivity of the peach plants. Of course, it is important to ensure that the soil contains well-balanced nutrients, and provide a generous addition of humus into the soil. Considering the above conditions, the central highlands and part of the Rift Valley provide the optimal conditions for successful peach farming. If you are still not sure if your farm is good for peaches farming, kindly invite us to assess and advice you further: 0724698357 or 0723213602.

Planting and cultivation

Successful peach farming requires careful consideration of planting and cultivation practices. When planting peach trees, ideal spacing is crucial for optimal growth and fruit production. A spacing of around 15 to 20 feet apart for a standard size peach and 8 to 10 feet apart for a dwarf size peach is essential for proper airflow and sunlight penetration. Adequate irrigation, especially during dry periods, ensures the peach plant flourishes. Mulching the plant around the base ensures it retains enough moisture.

Peach trees are required to be pruned annually. Pruning plays a pivotal role in the health and productivity of peach trees. It helps to remove dead or diseased wood, and it promotes air circulation and sunlight exposure.

Economic potential of peach farming in Kenya

Peach farming in Kenya holds promising economic potential due to its adaptability to diverse climates, increasing demand for exotic fruits, and potential for export, contributing to both local and international markets. As at the time wrote this (Dec 2023), a kilo of peaches was retailing at Ksh1,500 at Carrefour.

Retail Price of Peaches in Kenya

With the right agricultural practices and suitable regions, peaches can thrive, providing a valuable cash crop. As global markets show a growing interest in exotic fruits, Kenyan peaches could find a niche, leading to increased exports and earnings.

Market for peaches

The market for peaches is very promising. Locally, there’s a growing demand for fresh, high-quality peaches, driven by health-conscious consumers. Additionally, the global market for exotic fruits presents an opportunity for Kenyan peaches, especially in regions where they are not locally cultivated. Establishing connections with supermarkets, farmers’ markets, and international distributors can open avenues for both domestic and export sales.

Peach Fruit.

We might not have covered all that you need to know about peaches farming in Kenya, but we are willing to answer any questions you have. Do not hesitate to send us those questions on Whatsapp 0724698357, 0723213602, or 0798919007. With our guidance, proper management, and favorable conditions, you can turn your land into a profitable peaches orchard. 

Dwarf Fruit Tree Varieties: Why You Should Consider Farming Dwarf Varieties

Dwarf fruit varieties are small -sized fruit bearing plants that typically range from 5 to 8 feet tall. They are produced by grafting or budding the desired variety on to a dwarfing stock. This helps maintain the desired characteristics while minimizing the overall size. Sometimes genetic modification is also employed to achieve specific dwarfing effects. Despite their size, dwarf trees can be quite productive, offering a bounty of fruits.

 Examples of dwarf fruit tree varieties include Calina papaya IPB9 Pawpaw, dwarf citrus varieties like pixie orange and Washington navel, hass avocado among others.

                                             

 Why should you consider farming dwarf fruit tree varieties?

1.    Space efficiency

Due to their small width, dwarf varieties take up less space hence they really save up on space and this makes them suitable for planting in small gardens. Space efficiency opens possibilities for individuals to engage in fruitful gardening experiences, regardless of their outdoor or indoor spaces.

2.      Easier maintenance

Most dwarf varieties grow up to a maximum of about 8 feet tall and due to this size pruning, spraying and overall care is more manageable since it is easier to reach all parts of the tree.

3.      Quicker maturity

Dwarf trees often mature up faster and bear fruits earlier than their standard counterparts. A farmer basically gets to enjoy their harvest sooner.

4.      Accessibility for harvesting

Harvesting of dwarf fruits is more convenient since they are shorter. There is no need for ladders since the fruits can easily be reached.

5.      Container gardening                              

Dwarf varieties are a perfect choice for growing in containers and this is a good opportunity for people with limited space who would want to still enjoy home grown fruits.    

Dwarf fruit varieties are a practical choice for those with space constraints or those who want low- maintenance fruit trees.