Seven Most Profitable Crops To Plant In 2024

The year 2024 started so well for people in agribusiness, the continuing El-nino rains being a great blessing. Despite the prevailing tough economic times, the unusual January rains made the agribusiness ventures all the more exciting.

As Kenya continues to solidly take its place in the international horticultural market, many new collaborations and agents have come up, helping even the small-scale farmers get their produce to the markets abroad. The youth are also coming in with ever more advanced technologies that have not only brought farming solutions nearer to the farmer but also made them more affordable. While agribusiness in Kenya is on a fast growth, the following crops have an even greater potential in 2024:

1. Blueberries 

I didn't know that there were blueberry farmers in Kenya until the high price of the fruit triggered my curiosity about its farming. When I realized that a kg of blueberries costs over Ksh2,000, my first thought was that the reason for the pricing was that the berries were imported. Well, my thoughts weren't far from the truth because I discovered there's only 1 commercial blueberry farmer in Kenya; Kakuzi. 

Blueberry farming in Kenya

Kakuzi is enjoying a sweet monopoly of growing the highly sought-after blueberries. This company, which is also the largest exporter of Hass avocado in Kenya, knows something about the profitability of blueberry farming that many Kenyan farmers don't. Bearing in mind that Kenya has ideal climatic conditions for the production of these sweet berries, it is a lack of information that has kept many farmers from investing in it. If you would like to learn about its cultivation, here's a step-by-step guide I have written for you: Blueberry farming in Kenya: The New Gold in Agribusiness

2. Dragon fruit

I am so happy about the popularity that this fruit has recently gained: not among farmers but among consumers. I am particularly excited about how children love it. We first made mention of this fruit last year but one, and it was received by some with skepticism, terming its farming a scam like that of quail farming. Now, its wonderful reception in the local market has opened many investors' eyes to the income potential that the fruit offers. 

Dragon fruit is a relatively new crop on the Kenyan soils but the kind of profit potential it has leaves everyone who gets to know about it in awe. 

 

Dragon fruit farming in Naivasha, Kenya

Take one acre for example: dragon fruit plants are vines of  the cactus family. As such, they have to be provided with support such as a post or a concrete structure to remain erect. The ideal spacing for dragon fruits is 2x2m which means an acre can accommodate 1,000 of these support posts. On each post, 2 vines are planted hence the plant population per acre is 2,000. Each of these vines can give you 30 fruits per year, each fruit weighing on average 0.5kg. That translates to a yield of 30,000 kgs per acre every year. 

 

Now what's crazy is the price of the fruit per acre and I would like you to check this out for yourself if you are lucky to be near a supermarket that stocks these fruits. When we last checked in Dec 2022, the price was at Ksh800 per kilo at the farm gate of the largest dragon fruit farm in Kenya so far, Boffar farm, Naivasha. Have you done the math? It comes to Ksh24 million per acre per year. 

 

Of course, the price of dragon fruit in Kenya at the moment is too high because 90% of the fruits that reach our supermarket shelves are imported. As more farmers take up dragon fruit farming in Kenya, the price of the fruit will come down. Going by the statistics of the fruits we currently produce and sell locally such as strawberries, a sustainable price will be in the range of 400 per kg. But even with such, a farmer will still be making a cool Ksh12 million per acre every year. The best thing about dragon fruit farming is that once you establish your farm, you have over 30 years to reap from it. You can visit Richfarm Kenya's demonstration farm in Kiritiri Embu or call them on 0724698357 / 0723213602 for more information. 

Dragon fruit seedlings for sale at Richfarm Kenya

You should also read "Why Dragon Fruit is Set to Be the Next Big Thing in Kenya's Farming Business"

3. Passion fruit

If you are looking for a high-value crop that can produce an income within 6 months, take a look at passion fruit farming. Passion fruit farming has nearly unlimited advantages from extended life span exceeding three years after establishment to ability to intercrop.

While the capital needed to start a good size of passion fruit farm is not very low, the benefits and profit are worth every investment you make. Demand for passion fruits has continued to rise in 2022, especially with the coming of Covid 19 which has made people want to eat more healthy foods, more so fruits.

In the wake of health awareness, companies like Coca-cola, Afia juices and Del-Monte are also doing more in fruit juice production. Some of them are already sourcing various fruits from farmers to tap fresh fruits processing segments. Despite all the interest by fresh drink processors, the supply of this fruit has been low even this year. This presents an opportunity for you as a farmer.

The crop produces high yields under proper care, for instance, a yield of 50,000kg of passion fruit per hectare has been reported in Kenya. The average price of one kilo of passion fruits is Sh50 in various market centres in the country. However, you can still sell at a higher price through direct marketing. From one hectare, it’s possible to earn over Sh2,000,000; an earning that exceeds many other farming enterprises.

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Furthermore, the maturity and ripening of the fruits, does not happen at the same time; some take three days others one week while others two weeks. This is an advantage, as it will allow you to harvest weekly, and have time to market the produce. Starting as a small grower you will find lots of eager buyers at your neighbourhoods and supermarkets.

4. Strawberries

The demand for strawberries is bursting at the seams and the supply is low. This is because of the strawberry flavour that is used in the production of yoghurt, ice-creams, jams and in perfumes. Companies that use these fruits in Kenya are relying on imports. This is sufficient justification why strawberry farming is and will remain lucrative agribusiness in the years to come. Strawberries can grow in almost every part of our country provided there is constant water supply and stable temperature.

A one eighth of an acre would be adequate for a beginner but if you are in an urban setting you can invest in a few containers (which you can then put in your backyard) and start farming. It takes about 70 days for the crop to mature and produce the first fruits. But because the fruits are highly perishable (stays fresh for four to five days after harvesting), it is advisable to start looking for market early enough to avoid incurring losses.

An eighth piece of land can produce between 30 kg and 50 kg of strawberries per week and each kilo goes for about Sh200 at the current wholesale market price. Now assuming your small farm produces 50 Kgs per week then that means you can make Sh40,000 per month using only a small portion of your land.

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Once you plant them, 70 days down the line you will get your first harvest. This will continue for up to three years with two to three harvesting seasons every year. Like any other business with attractive returns, strawberry farming in Kenya requires capital. Chandler is the most popular variety. Strawberries are runners, so once you plant, you do not need to buy other seedlings as you can propagate them by removing the splits from the parent plant.

You don’t have to be an agriculture expert to succeed in strawberry farming. All you need to do is find a good piece of land. Then you need to source for the right seedlings – and this is where you need to contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357 for assistance. Alternatively, you can talk to other successful farmers in your area for assistance in sourcing for the right variety.

5. Mushrooms

I love to refer to mushroom farming in Kenya as the new Gig for youthful investors. Its production has of late captured the attention of the young Kenya’s farming community with most farmers posting amazing profits. Mushrooms are land and rainfall independent hence making them the better option for those looking to maximize revenue from their small pieces of land. For those without space to establish commercial horticultural gardens, growing mushrooms for profit can produce a great return from a small space.

Exotic mushrooms, such as oyster and shiitake, make sense, as they can be grown indoors without soil. They only require a house and your attention. Mud thatched houses can create the right climate for mushroom growing. The demand in Kenya is unsatisfied with data indicating that we are only producing 500 tonnes of these mushrooms against an annual demand of 1,200 tonnes.

Mushrooms can be grown using various substrates from agricultural wastes such as cereal straws such as maize stalks, bean stalk, wheat straw Coffee pulp, coffee husks, paper waste, papyrus, water hyacinth, banana fronds etc. Cotton husks, maize cobs, banana leaves, papyrus, grass straw, paper wastes, sugarcane bagasse and hay. Spawns ‘seeds’ can now be easily obtained from Richfarm Kenya.

Oyster mushrooms, for example, produce around 10kg per square foot of growing space in a year’s time. At the current price of Sh400 a kilo, that’s Sh400,000 worth of mushrooms from a 10’x10′ space! Exotic mushrooms do not travel well, so as a small local grower you will always have an edge over distant producers. In most supermarkets, the oyster mushrooms are also the first items to sell out. 

You can see more details about mushroom the mushroom market and profitability in Kenya in this article: How Profitable is Mushroom farming in Kenya: Costs and market analysis. 

Before, mushroom farming has been a very complicated venture requiring lots of chemistry, biology and attention. So many people were discouraged by this but not now, Richfarm Kenya has simplified it so much that anyone can do it. There are training sessions every week and starters can even buy already prepared and seeded mushroom production bags such that they are in production in less that 1 month. 

You can read more on this in the article Mushroom Farming In Kenya 2021: How You Can Make Money Throughout The Year.

6. Onions

Although onion prices reached the lowest in 2020 with a kg selling for as low as Ksh20 at the farm gate, this is a crop that is still worth a shot at. It is not so much of a goldmine as it was in previous years but my prediction is that there is going to be an abnormal rise in onion prices very soon since so many farmers abandoned the crop when the prices went low and remained so for a long time.

Done well, 1 acre of onions should yield 20,000 kgs or more. If you sell the crop at Ksh20 per kg, your revenue will be Ksh400,000 in just 5 months. The cost of production usually goes to an average of Ksh120,000 per acre so you are still making profits. The kill will be when these prices start going up, most likely in early 2021, something that seems sure to happen. Can you imagine how much you will earn if you harvest your 20 tons when the price are at 80 per kg! That is not a far dream; the prices have many times been on such a high. 

7. Pawpaws

This is a crop that few farmers  consider and that is where the opportunity lies. It is a tree that is quite resistant to dry conditions and hardy to pests and diseases. Once planted and well established, just a little care will be required from time to time.

There are various varieties of pawpaw and now we even have the dwarfs which start producing fruits from the ninth month. With a line spacing of 2 m and tree-to-tree spacing of 2m, one acre can carry 1100 trees. Each of these trees produces 40 to 50 kg of fruit every year giving you about 40 to 50 tons of fruit per acre every year. With a kg selling at an average of  sh.30, you can easily make 1.2 to 1.5 million shillings from an acre of pawpaw every year.

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The initial cost of planting an acre of pawpaw is low since each seedling can be bought at an average of 50 shillings meaning you will only need 55,000 shillings to buy seedlings for one acre. The rest is labour and a bit of fertilization. The cost would hardly exceed 100,000 shillings. 

Bonus: Off-Season mangoes

I know you can hardly convince a Kenyan that mango farming is profitable. Unfortunately, this is a view held because of lack of knowledge. Mango farming in Kenya is very profitable but for a few farmers who have mastered the business of doing things in a unique way. 

Instead of planting the ordinary mangoes whose fruits have more fiber than edible flesh, they plant unique, high quality varieties. These fruits have high eating quality, they mature after other ordinary varieties are finished and they have an extremely higher yield. 

Most importantly, these mangoes can be processed through simple dehydration methods and packed in air-tight bags. This process preserves the fruits making it possible to sell them off the supermarket shelves for a very long time, not to mention that the price becomes premium. 

Have I raised your interest? There is a lot more about the business of mango farming in Kenya that I have written in detail. Read it from this article: Mango Farming In Kenya: How To Grow The Best Mangoes For Export

Well, while dragon fruit caps our list of the five most profitable crops in Kenya this year, we have two unique crops we would like you to research more about:

1. Kiwi fruit: Please read "The Basics of Kiwi Fruit Farming in Kenya"

2. Black berry farming in Kenya

If you need more assistance, do not hesitate to call us directly on 0724698357 / 0723213602 or email us on info@richfarmkenya.com

Fruit Farmers Getting The Most Out of Their Orchards By Cultivating in Healthy Soils.

Fruit farming is a vital sector that has increasingly been embraced by Kenyans within the last 10 years. One thing you need to know about this sector is for you to achieve success you require more than just planting and watering. One of the fundamental pillars of successful fruit farming is healthy soil. The foundation of healthy fruits or rather a successful cultivation lies beneath the surface- in the soil. In this article, we aim at making you understand how you can achieve healthy soil that will meet the unique needs of your fruits.

Productive strawberries on a multi -storey garden.

First, you need to understand your fruits’ soil nutrient requirements. Different fruits have different nutrient requirements at different growth stages. For instance, citrus fruits might thrive well with higher levels of potassium, while berries may benefit more from phosphorus. To get the most out of your fruit orchard, it is important to understand the specific nutrient requirements of your chosen fruit varieties. The easiest way to determine your fruits’ soil requirements and levels is by conducting a soil test. This analytical process will help you in making an informed decision regarding the fertilization. Once you have understood the nutrients requirements, it will be important you strike a balance in the nutrient levels because too much or too little of certain nutrients can impact the health of a plant and how much it can yield. By understanding nutrient requirements and fine- tuning the nutrient management practices, you can create an optimal soil environment, setting the stage for healthy and productive fruit farming.

Mature compost

In pursuit of healthy soils, as a farmer, you can use organic amendments such as compost, well-rotted manure, and cover crops that play a very crucial role in enhancing soil fertility, structure, and overall productivity. Compost is a valuable source of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It enriches the soil with diverse micro nutrients important for plant growth. Also read; Enhancing plant disease resistance through proper composting. Well-rotted manure from sources like livestock or poultry provides a potent mix of nutrients which contribute to the nitrogen cycle and introduce valuable organic matter in to the soil. Cover crops like legumes or grasses, protect the soil from erosion by holding together the soil, preventing nutrient runoff. The legumes also have the remarkable ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil which reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers. 

Another very important step of achieving healthy soil for you fruit trees is by balancing the Ph. The acidity or alkalinity of soil, influences fruit crop performance greatly. Balancing the pH involves managing the acidity or alkalinity of the soil to create an optimal environment for plant growth and development. In fruit farming, maintenance of the right pH is crucial as it directly influences nutrient availability, microbial activity, and overall soil health. The only way to determine the pH of your farm is through carrying out a soil test.

Soil tests are not only important in determining the pH level of your soil, they provide a comprehensive analysis of the nutrients content in the soil. This is important as it will help you customize your fertilization plans and proper soil amendment practices.

Optimal soil health is the cornerstone of successful fruit farming in Kenya. By understanding and managing soil management practices, you will be able to cultivate success from the ground up.

Where Do I sell My Hass Avocado Fruit? Market Overview of Hass Avocado in 2024

 

Avocados have become an increasingly popular fruit worldwide, and none more so than the Hass avocado. With its rich, creamy texture and distinct flavor, the Hass avocado has gained a loyal following among consumers and has become a staple ingredient in various cuisines. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of the Hass avocado market. We will explore the global production and consumption trends, identify the key players and competitors in the industry, examine the factors that affect the demand for Hass avocados. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of the Hass avocado market and gain insights into this thriving and dynamic sector.

Hass avocado, or as I like to call it, the  creme de la creme of avocados, is a variety of avocado known for its dark green, bumpy skin and creamy, buttery flesh. It's the avocado that graces our Instagram feeds with its photogenic qualities and brings joy to our taste buds with its rich flavor.

The story of the Hass avocado is like a Hollywood movie. It was discovered by a postal worker named Rudolph Hass, a mail carrier and amateur farmer in the 1920s. He stumbled upon a strange-looking avocado tree in his backyard, which turned out to be the gem we now know and love. Hass patented the tree, but little did he know that he was also patenting a global obsession with avocados.

How To Grow Avocados in Kenya for Export

Distribution of Avocado Growing Zones

Avocados are grown in many countries, but some are leading the pack in terms of Hass avocado production. Mexico, the birthplace of guacamole, is the largest producer, followed by the Dominican Republic, Peru, and Colombia. These countries have mastered the art of avocado farming and are responsible for keeping our avocado toast dreams alive. African countries such as Kenya and South Africa are coming up nicely. Kenya to be specific has over time overtaken more South American countries in avocado production. Other producers in Africa include some parts of Tanzania and Uganda. East Africa has a very favorable climate for farming avocados.

Avocado Consumption 

Avocado consumption has gone from an occasional luxury to an everyday necessity for many people. Millennials have adopted avocados as their spirit fruit, driving up demand like there's no tomorrow. Avocado toast, avocado smoothies, and even avocado ice cream have become staples in our diets. Avocados can accompany any type of food, word making round is, you can do an avocado with another avocado. It's safe to say that avocados have become our green obsession. 

Demand For Kenyan Avocado Continues to Climb: The Issue Right Now Is Providing a Continuous Supply

As you may have noted Kenya falls a distant 6th in Hass avocado production globally and first in Africa, can you process that for a moment. Mind you we are the closest source of avocados for Europe, Middle East and Asia. The distance from Kenya to the largest importers of Hass avocado in the EU is smaller compared to the distance between South America and the EU. Kenyan avocados hit the EU market faster and cheaper than their counterparts  from South America. That means that Kenya, with your help as a farmer, can be the sole exporter of avocados if we hit the right numbers, just as Mexico is the main exporter to the US. The farmers can actually help stabilize the free falling Kenyan Shilling against the dollar as we earn more foreign exchange.

The US is the largest importer of the Mexican avocado fruit, meaning a small percentage is sold in the EU and Asian market.

How Avocado Farming In Kenya Is Influenced By Global Supply

Kenya's Export Potential

If you study the above representation carefully you will note that Kenya's highest producing seasons do not necessarily overlap with others. The demand for our fruit coincides with a period of low production from countries like Mexico. China, New Zealand, Israel, Spain and a larger part of the EU will therefore rely on what we produce. 

Emerging Opportunities and Growth Potential

The Hass avocado market is full of potential. As consumer awareness of healthy eating and plant-based diets increases, so does the demand for avocados. The versatility of Hass avocados in various cuisines and the trend of avocado-based products, such as oils and spreads, open up new avenues for growth. Furthermore, emerging markets in Asia and Eastern Europe present exciting opportunities for expansion and a chance to bring avocados to even more tables around the world.

For more information on how you can get certified avocado seedlings contact us via 0724698357/0723213602 or visit us in our nurseries in Embu and Naivasha.

Hass Avocado Farming Guide

Onion Farming in Kenya: Fetching Millions of Money From Onion Farming

How would we even get to enjoy the kitchen delicacies without onions? Onion farming is one of the most underrated practices that has a potential of fetching millions of money. Many Kenyans for a long time have been enjoying the presence of this gem in their kitchens without really putting much thought to it in terms of monetary value. I mean, why would we be enjoying something soo good and fail to think that we can farm it and make money as well.

Onion farming in Kenya.

Onions thrive in various regions of Kenya that offer diverse micro climates that allow for all year-round cultivation. These areas include Nakuru, Kitale, Eldoret, Embu, Meru, Bungoma, Nanyuki, Limuru etc.

Ideal climatic conditions for growth of onions in Kenya.

Onions thrive best in well-drained soils that provide a conducive environment for onion cultivation by preventing waterlogged conditions, promoting aeration, supporting root development, and facilitating nutrient availability. A soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for the growth of onions. Onions prefer full sunlight exposure and cool temperatures between 13 to 24 degrees Celsius for optimal growth. Adequate and constant water supply is essential as well.

Step by step process for planting onions. 

Onions can be grown from sets, seeds, or seedlings. A set is a small onion bulb that is planted instead of a seed to produce a mature bulb and is usually have had been planted before in a previous season. Planting onions involves several steps such as.

Mixed varieties of onion sets.

1.    Preparing the soil

Preparing the soil for planting onions involves choosing a well- drained area with a sand loamy texture, testing the soil pH, and adjusting it accordingly to a range between 6.0 and 7.5. This step also involves incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve on the soil fertility and structure. After all that is done, till the land to loosen up the soil while removing existing weeds and grass to reduce competition for nutrients.

2.    Planting materials

Choose quality onion sets, seeds, or seedlings from reputable sources like Richfarm Kenya. Call or Whatsapp 0724698357/0723213602 to make your order. When selecting, assess the available varieties and choose based on your culinary preferences, think of the local climate and growing conditions as some regions may favour one planting material over the other, also consider the maturity period and how quickly you would want to harvest. For example, sets mature more quickly than onions grown from seeds.

3.    Actual planting

The best time to plant onions in Kenya is before the onset of the rains, around late February to March. Onions require a lot of water to grow up so proper timing when planting is important. You should plant the sets, seeds/seedlings about an inch deep with a spacing of around 12-18 inches apart.

4.    Watering

Water the onions consistently especially during the early stages of growth and bulb formation. To maintain consistent moisture, you can consider taking up drip irrigation which is efficient in delivering water directly to the root zone while minimizing water contact with the foliage, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

5.    Mulching

Mulching is a practice that involves covering the topsoil around a plant with a layer of materials such as leaves, grass etc. It helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain more stable soil temperatures.

6.    Pests and diseases

Onions are prone to a number of pests and diseases such as onion maggots, downy mildew, bolting onions, thrips, pink root etc. Managing onion diseases involves combining preventive measures and targeted interventions.

7.    Harvesting

The most awaited time of the whole process is now here. Your onions are ready and it’s now time to harvest. This is approximately 3 to 4 months or less after planting depending on the variety.  Harvest when the tops have fallen over and started to dry, it indicates that the bulbs have stopped growing and are likely mature. The outer skin of mature onions is papery and has a colour for that particular onion variety.

You can harvest your onions manually or through machines. Hand harvesting in as much as it can be tiresome is much better as it allows for careful handling of the bulbs, reducing the risk of damage. Manual harvesting involves lifting the layer of soil around the onion with a garden fork or shovel and then lifting the bulb by hands.

Common onion varieties grown in Kenya.

In Kenya, several onion varieties are cultivated to suit different preferences and growing conditions. Onion varieties are classified in to two, local varieties and hybrid onion varieties.

a)    Local onion varieties

§  Red Creole

§  Bombay Red

§  Texas Grano

§  Red Pinoy

b)    Hybrid onion varieties

§  Red Passion F1

§  Red Nice F1

§  Red Coach F1

§  Jambar F1

Economic potential of onion farming.

Onion farming possesses considerable economic potential due to its high demand and versatility. Onions are highly consumed and are a staple ingredient in many global dishes, ensuring a consistent market demand. Additionally, onions can be cultivated year-round in different regions, contributing to a steady income. The versatility of onions extends to value-added products such as pickles, sauces hence creating opportunities for you as a farmer to add value to their produce. Engaging in onion export further contributes to the agricultural economy, offering income opportunities for farmers.

Health benefits of onions

As we look towards food security and profit making in onion farming, we do not overlook the health benefits associated with onions. Onions provide numerous health benefits and incorporating them in a balanced diet is a flavourful way to harness these health benefits and enhance overall nutritional intake.

Onions are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids which help combat stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Compounds in onions exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that potentially aid in the prevention of inflammatory conditions. Onions decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases by promoting lower blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels. The presence of Vitamin C and B6 in onions supports a healthy immune system, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off diseases.

Blackberry Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide To Growing Your Own Mouth Watering Berries

Blackberry farming in Kenya is a captivating practice that involves growing and managing blackberry plants to produce top-notch blackberries. These delectable fruits are not only delicious but also highly sought after due to their unique flavor, versatility, and numerous health benefits. Whether you're a novice eager to explore the realm of agriculture or an experienced farmer looking to diversify your crop production, blackberry farming presents a promising opportunity. 

In this article, we will delve into the essential aspects of blackberry farming in Kenya, from selecting the perfect varieties and preparing an ideal farming site to implementing effective cultivation techniques, managing pests and diseases, and harvesting. So, get ready to uncover the secrets to success in this rewarding agricultural venture.

These delightful berries have been enjoyed by humans for thousands of years. Believed to have originated in Europe, their popularity quickly spread across the globe. These little berries are powerhouses of nutrients and antioxidants, making them a top choice for health-conscious consumers. And let's not forget, they're simply delicious.

There are several common varieties of blackberries that you can choose from, depending on your climate and personal taste preferences. Some popular ones include Navaho, Ouachita, and Chester. Each variety has its own unique flavors and growth habits.

Blackberries, are not the neatest of plants, they have a wild and sprawling nature, much like a teenager's untamed hair. They fall under the shrub family like most berries. But fear not, because proper pruning will help you stay one step ahead of these unruly fruits.  Pruning is like giving your blackberry plants a stylish haircut. It not only keeps them looking their best but also improves their overall health and productivity. By removing old canes and promoting new growth, you're basically giving your plants a fresh start. Plus, it helps to prevent overcrowding and allows for better airflow, making your blackberries happier than ever.

To run a successful blackberry farm in Kenya here are some of the key areas you should address.  

1. Site selection. Now that you're itching to get your hands dirty, it's time to choose the perfect spot for your blackberry farm in Kenya. Blackberries have specific preferences for both climate and soil conditions. They thrive in temperate regions with warm to hotter temperatures. As for their soil preference, well-drained and fertile soil. Choosing the right spot for your blackberry farm requires a keen eye. You want a location with good sunlight exposure and preferably a gentle slope to encourage proper drainage. Blackberries appreciate well-prepared soil, preferably with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. 
2. Propagation. Blackberries are mainly propagated from cuttings. You can get healthy, disease free seedlings from Richfarm Kenya by visiting our nurseries in Embu or Naivasha or call us on 0724698357 or 0723213602. 

   

   Blackberry seedlings at Richfarm, Naivasha

   
   
3. Spacing. You need to space them just right to ensure they have room to spread and grow. And don't forget about those trellises and support systems, because these berries need a little help standing tall. They require a spacing of 1m by 1.5m.
4. Watering. Just like humans, blackberries need water and nutrients to thrive. Proper irrigation and fertilization techniques will keep your plants happy and productive. Think of it as giving them a refreshing drink and a nutritious meal.
5. Weeding. Weeds are the unwanted party crashers of the farming world. Mulching and hand weeding are one of the practices that can help with that.
6. Pests. Pests are the unwelcome guests that just can't resist crashing the party. Some of the common pests that love to snack on your blackberry plants include aphids, spider mites. These little critters can cause damage to leaves, stems, and even the fruit itself. You can spray the required pesticide to keep them at bay.
7. Diseases. Just when you thought pests were bad enough, now you have to deal with diseases too. Blackberry plants can be susceptible to diseases like cane blight, powdery mildew, and rust. There are ways to identify and prevent these diseases from spreading like wildfire. Regular inspections, proper sanitation, and practicing good airflow in your blackberry patch can go a long way in keeping your plants healthy and disease-free.
8. IPM. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is like having a superhero team dedicated to protecting your blackberry plants. It's a holistic approach that combines different pest control methods to keep those pests in check. From natural enemies like ladybugs and lacewings to organic pesticides, there are various tools at your disposal.
9. Support. Training systems for blackberry plants are like support system for your garden. They provide structure and help your plants grow in an organized and efficient manner. From trellises to wire supports, there are various options to choose from. They keep your plants in shape.

   

   Wire training system for blackberry

   
   

10. Harvesting. When harvesting your blackberries you have to look for signs of ripeness, like a nice deep colour and a gentle tug that easily separates the berry from the stem.

Projected Cost and  Income for 1 acre 

• Cost per seedling Ksh. 200
• Seedlings per acre - 2,000-3,000 
• Spacing - 1m by 1.5m
• Fruit price- Ksh. 100-150 per kg (farmgate)
• Yield- 10 tones per per year
• Pest- aphids, spider mite
• Diseases- cane blight, powdery mildew, and rust
• Lifespan- 20 yrs plus

 FAQ

1. Can blackberries be grown in all climates in Kenya?

Blackberries thrive in temperate climates, although certain varieties are adapted to specific regions. These areas may include parts of Rift Valley like Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kitale among others, parts of central Kenya which enjoy warm climate like Embu, Thika, Murang'a also Eastern and Coast region. It is essential to select appropriate blackberry varieties that are suitable for your specific climate and growing conditions.

2. Do blackberry plants require a lot of maintenance?

While blackberry plants do require some maintenance, they are relatively low-maintenance compared to other fruit crops. Routine tasks include pruning, training, fertilizing, and pest management.

3. How long does it take for blackberry plants to bear fruit?

Blackberry plants typically start producing fruit in under four months, but become commercially viable in six months.

4. Are blackberries profitable to grow as a commercial crop in Kenya?

Blackberries can be a profitable crop when grown and marketed effectively. The demand for fresh berries continues to rise, creating opportunities for farmers to tap into the market. There’s a huge untapped export market in Kenya considering the favorable weather we have.

Sweet Potatoes Farming in Kenya

Sweet potatoes known as Ipomea batatas have evolved from being a traditional staple to a thriving crop with immense agricultural significance and high profit potential. Sweet potato farming involves cultivating the tuberous roots of the sweet potato plant. Their adaptability, nutritional richness, and economic potential make sweet potato farming a compelling agribusiness opportunity for farmers worldwide hence contributing to food security while maximising profits.

Ideal climatic conditions for the growth of sweet potatoes.

Kenya’s warm and tropical climates offers an ideal environment for the growth of sweet potatoes.

Sweet potatoes prefer temperatures between 21 to 29 degrees Celsius with a full sunlight exposure for them to thrive well. They can tolerate dry conditions, but they generally perform well with consistent moisture. Well-drained loose, and sand loamy soils with good aeration are ideal for the tuber development.

Step by step process for farming sweet potatoes.

1.    Soil preparation

To ensure a successful harvest, choose a location with well- drained soil that is rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Conduct soil tests to gauge nutrient levels and adjust accordingly. Clear the planting area of weeds, rocks, and debris to ensure that the sweet potatoes do not face competition for nutrients. Adequate preparation sets the foundation for healthy sweet potato growth and creates a nurturing environment for them to flourish.

2.    Planting

Choose the right time for planting, typically when the soil has warmed. Plant in loose, mounded rows with a depth of 3-4 inches, leaving only the top leaves above the surface. While planting make sure to observe proper spacing.  Properly spaced plants encourage healthy root development.

3.    Maintenance during growth.

ü  Watering

Water the newly planted slips generously to establish root development. Maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season while avoiding water logging.

ü  Fertilization

Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season based on the soil test recommendations.

ü  Weeding

Regularly remove weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.

ü  Vine training

Train the sweet potato vines to spread along the rows, promoting sunlight exposure and aiding in weed suppression.

ü  Pest and Disease Management

Monitor for pests like sweet potato weevils and diseases such as black rot and implement appropriate pest control measures.

4.    Harvesting

 Sweet potatoes should be harvested when the vines begin to yellow and die back. This is about 90-120 days after planting. Gently dig them out to avoid damaging the roots. Proper handling during harvesting ensures quality produce for market or personal consumption.

5.    Storage

After harvesting, cure sweet potatoes in a warm, humid environment for a week or two then store them in a cool, dark place with proper ventilation. Curing is a post-harvest process that involves exposing freshly harvested sweet potatoes to warm and humid conditions for a certain period. Curing ensures longevity and preserves the nutritional quality of the sweet potatoes while preventing them from sprouting.

Examples of sweet potato varieties grown in Kenya include.

                        I.         Beauregard

A red skinned and orange fleshed sweet potato known for its high yielding vines and early maturity. It produces large elongated sweet potatoes with a sweeter flavour. Its adaptability to different agro-ecological zones makes it a popular choice.

                      II.         Jewel

Sweet potatoes that have a light orange coloured skin with a deep orange coloured flesh. It’s one of the most grown and consumed sweet potato. It’s well suited for both commercial and subsistence farming.

                    III.         Vitaa

This is a high-yielding, orange-fleshed sweet potato variety developed by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO). It is resistant to pests and diseases and can grow well in a wide range of environmental conditions.

                  

 IV.         Murasaki

A variety of sweet potatoes that is characterized by its deep purple skin and creamy white flesh, with an extra starchy texture.

 Is sweet potato farming profitable?

This is a question that every potential sweet potato farmer is likely to ask themselves before they decide to take up the venture. The answer is Yes. Here are a number of factors that make this venture profitable

o   High demand

Sweet potatoes are a staple food in the Kenyan diets, and this contributes to their consistent demand locally. Additionally, there is an increasing global interest in sweet potatoes as a nutritious crop and this definitely raises their demand in the export market. High demand often leads to more stable prices, reducing the risk of price fluctuations that can affect farmers’ income.

o   Nutritional Value

Beyond their sweet flavor, sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they offer a spectrum of health benefits. The nutritional content of sweet potatoes makes them attractive to health-conscious consumers, contributing to high market demand and potentially higher prices.

o   Short growing season

Sweet potatoes have a relatively short growing season of 3-4 months, allowing for multiple harvests in a year therefore increasing overall productivity and potential income.

o   Value addition

Farmers can explore value addition by processing sweet potatoes into various products such as chips, flour, or snacks opening up additional revenue streams. Generally, incorporating value addition into sweet potato farming adds value at different stages of the supply chain, contributing to increased profitability for farmers.