Garlic Farming in Kenya.

How can we mention garlic without mentioning its distinctive pungent flavour and aroma in a number of worldwide cuisines?

Garlic Onions

Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum and locally known as ‘Saumu’ in Kenya is a bulbous plant that belongs to the onion family. It has a spherical or slightly elongated bulb that encloses multiples cloves in a papery white skin. The colour of the garlic cloves may vary from off-white to pale yellow in colour depending on the variety and growing conditions as well.

Garlic farming in Kenya has emerged as a promising agricultural venture offering lucrative opportunities for farmers across the country. It demand both domestically and internationally has been on the rise and is set to reach Usd 539.35 million this year. Countries such as Europe, Middle East and Asia form the basis of Kenya’s garlic export market.

Kenya’s diverse climate provides favorable conditions for garlic cultivation. Regions such as Nakuru, Nyandarua, Baringo, Laikipia, Embu, Meru, Muranga, Bomet, Narok are ideal for garlic cultivation due to their moderate temperatures and well-distributed rainfall.

Brief process for planting garlic.

Selecting garlic bulbs-Choose healthy garlic bulbs for planting. They should be firm and free from damage or disease.

Preparing the planting site-The site should be well drained with full sunlight exposure. You should loosen the soil by digging to a depth of 15 to 20cm and remove any weeds or debris on that area. Mix up the soil on the site with compost or aged manure so as to improve on the soil fertility.

Planting the garlic cloves- Carefully select the individual cloves from the garlic bulbs and plant them with the pointed end facing upward and the flat end downward. The cloves should have a spacing of about 4 to 6 inches apart in rows that are spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart. Plant the cloves to a depth of 1 to2 inches, pressing them gently in the soil.

Mulching and watering- After planting, apply a layer of mulch to the soil and water thoroughly to provide enough moisture for germination and early growth.

Garlic has a relatively short growing cycle of about six to eight months. It is typically ready for harvest when the top begins to dry and yellow. The bulbs are dug up using garden forks or trowel. The short growing cycle of garlic ensures multiple harvests in a year and creates a steady income for garlic farmers. With proper land preparation and maintenance, garlic farming can offer attractive returns due to the high yields that translate into substantial profits.

If Kenyan farmers unlock the full potential of garlic cultivation, we will be able to contribute to the country's food security and economic development.

Persimmon Farming in Kenya: Fruit With Higher Vitamin C Than Orange

Persimmon farming in Kenya is an emerging industry that has shown significant growth and potential in recent years. The unique climate and soil conditions in certain parts of Kenya make it an ideal location for persimmon cultivation, and many farmers are now turning to this fruit as a profitable crop.  

Persimmon Fruits.

Just to provide a quick sneak peek of vitamin content comparison of oranges versus persimmon:

Vitamin C

Both orange and persimmon are high in Vitamin C. Persimmon has 47% more Vitamin C than orange - orange has 45mg of Vitamin C per 100 grams and persimmon has 66mg of Vitamin C.

Vitamin A

Orange has more Vitamin A than persimmon - orange has 11ug of Vitamin A per 100 grams and persimmon does not contain significant amounts.

Vitamin E

Orange and persimmon contain similar amounts of Vitamin E - orange has 0.18mg of Vitamin E per 100 grams and persimmon does not contain significant amounts.

 The above information tells you why persimmon farming is the next great thing for the early adopters as the fruit has high demand both domestically and internationally. Persimmons are a popular fruit in many countries around the world, and the increasing awareness of their health benefits has driven up demand. This presents a lucrative opportunity for Kenyan farmers to capitalize on this trend and tap into the global market for persimmons.

Additionally, persimmons are a relatively low maintenance crop that requires minimal inputs compared to other fruits. They are drought-tolerant and can thrive in diverse climatic conditions, making them suitable for cultivation in various regions of Kenya. This provides farmers with a flexible and versatile option for diversifying their agricultural activities and maximizing their profits.

However, there are also challenges associated with persimmon farming in Kenya that need to be addressed. One of the main obstacles is the lack of access to modern farming techniques and technologies, which can hinder productivity and quality. Many small-scale farmers in Kenya rely on traditional farming methods and have limited knowledge of best practices for persimmon cultivation. 

Furthermore, the market for persimmons in Kenya is still developing, and farmers may face difficulties in finding buyers and establishing distribution channels. Improving market linkages and creating a sustainable value chain for persimmons is essential for the long-term success of this industry in Kenya.

Despite these challenges, there is great potential for persimmon farming to thrive in Kenya. The government and agricultural organizations can play a crucial role in providing support and resources to farmers, such as training programs, subsidies, and access to credit. By investing in research and development, improving infrastructure, and promoting the benefits of persimmon farming, Kenya can position itself as a key player in the global persimmon market.

 In conclusion, persimmon farming in Kenya offers numerous benefits and opportunities for farmers to diversify their income and contribute to economic growth. While there are challenges that need to be addressed, the future of persimmon farming in Kenya looks promising with the right support and investments in place. By harnessing the potential of this fruit and leveraging its unique qualities, Kenya can establish itself as a leading producer and exporter of persimmons in the region.

 

 

Moringa Oleifera Farming: Nutrient Power House

One of the reasons why moringa tree farming has increased over the years is it nutritional profile. The plant is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Every part of the moringa tree-from its leaves and seeds to its roots and flowers is edible and full of nutrients. Moringa leaves in particular are a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin A, Calcium, Potassium, and Protein.

Moringa Plants.

For most people, they have known about Moringa through its value-added products. Moringa has a number of value-added products that enhance the nutritional value and foster economic development. These products include.

1.    Moringa Leaf Powder

This powder is made by drying and grounding the moringa leaves into a fine powder. The powder can be used as a dietary supplement, added to smoothies, juices, soups or generally sprinkled on food for an added nutritional boost.

2.    Moringa tea

Moringa leaves are dried and brewed into a flavourful tea. Moringa tea has antioxidant properties that boost immunity, help in digestion and promote overall well-being.

3.    Moringa oil

This is extracted from Moringa seeds. It is a prized ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and moisturizing properties. Moringa oil is used in creams, lotions, hair care products, and massage oils.

4.    Moringa Soap

Moringa leaf powder or its oil is incorporated into soap formulations, creating natural and nourishing skincare products. A good example of a Moringa soap is Geisha Moringa.

Moringa plant is adaptable to diverse climatic and soil conditions making it a better choice for sustainable farming. Thriving in arid and semi-arid regions, moringa requires minimal water and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. Moringa trees have a rapid growth rate, often reaching maturity within a year and can be harvested multiple times throughout the year, ensuring a steady supply of the produce.

Step by Step Process of cultivating Moringa.

Moringa farming does not require much therefore making its cultivation a straightforward process.

Site selection-The area should be well-drained with plenty of sunlight. Moringa is a drought resistant plant, but it does best in areas with consistent rainfall or irrigation. It thrives in a wide range of soils as long as they are well drained.

Propagation of Moringa-It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or nursery-grown seedlings. In need of ready to plant moringa tree seedlings call or whatsapp Richfarm Kenya at 0724698357/0723213602 or 0798919007.

Planting of Moringa-The seeds or seedlings should be planted at a spacing of about 3-5 metres apart, depending on the desired density of the plantation. The planting holes should be deep enough to accommodate the roots and the soil should be firmly packed around the seedlings.

Watering-Once you have done your planting, ensure you water your seedlings regularly for them to establish their root systems. Once their roots are established, they do not require as much water since they are drought tolerant, just a little water is needed to sustain the plant during the very dry season.

Fertilization- Moringa trees require relatively low maintenance as they do not require heavy fertilization. However, incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil during or after planting can provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. Foliar sprays or organic fertilizers can be occasionally used as well to boost plant vigor.

Harvesting-It leaves can be harvested as soon as the trees reach a height of about 1-2 metres, typically within 3 months after planting.

Post- harvest handling-After harvesting, moringa leaves can be washed, dried, and processed into various value-added products such as powder, tea etc.

Market for Moringa.

As of 2024, the market for moringa is steadily growing due to its applications across various industries, increasing consumer awareness of its nutritional benefits among other reasons. Moringa presents lucrative opportunity for farmers, producers, and entrepreneurs.

We have both the local and export markets for moringa. Countries such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Middle East encompass the export market for moringa, and it value added products as well.

Amaranth(Terere) Farming in Kenya.

In Kenya, if you are enjoying the staple meal “Ugali”, it is oftenly accompanied by traditional vegetables commonly knowns as “mboga za kienyeji”. The traditional vegetables are a mixture of a number of vegetables among them being amaranth that we call ‘terere’ in my native language. We also have other names like Mchicha, lidodo, ododo in many other languages.

Terere plant.

Amaranth farming in Kenya is gaining popularity due to its ability to thrive in diverse climates and soil conditions. Whether in the highlands of central Kenya, the arid regions of the north, or the coastal areas, amaranth can be cultivated successfully, making it a crop that can be cultivated by anyone despite the region they are in.

Sustainable farming practices.

Before digging deeper into other concepts of amaranth, let me talk about its sustainable farming. In an era marked by concerns over environmental degradation and climate change, sustainable farming practices are crucial. Amaranth cultivation aligns well with principles of sustainability due to its low water requirements, minimal use of chemical inputs, and ability to improve soil health.

Nutritional content of amaranth.

Amaranth is not just like any other leafy green vegetable but a vegetable that is packed with essential proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

1. Protein: Amaranth is considered a high-quality plant-based protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids, including lysine, which typically lacks in many grains.
2. Dietary Fiber: Amaranth is rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health, regulated blood sugar levels, and helps maintain a healthy weight.
3. Vitamins: Amaranth is a good source of various vitamins, including vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Vitamin B2, B3 and B9.
4. Minerals: This vegetable is rich in minerals like calcium which is crucial for bone health, iron which is essential for oxygen transport and energy production, magnesium for supporting muscles and nerve function, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
5. Antioxidants: Amaranth contains various antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative stress and chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Economic opportunities.

Beyond its nutritional benefits, amaranth farming presents significant economic opportunities for Kenyan farmers. With growing demand for nutritious foods both domestically and internationally, amaranth has the potential to become a lucrative cash crop. It fast growing nature allows for multiple harvest in a single growing season, providing farmers with a steady income stream.

Value added products of amaranth.

• Amaranth flour- It is ground from amaranth seeds. The flour is gluten free and rich in protein, making it an ideal alternative for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those seeking to increase their protein intake. It can be used in baking bread, muffins, pancakes, and other baked goods.
• Amaranth snacks- Amaranth grains can be popped like popcorn and seasoned to create nutritious crunchy snacks.
• Amaranth porridge – It grains can be cooked into a creamy porridge, similar to oatmeal
• Amarantha pasta- Amaranth flour can be used to make gluten- free pasta, offering a nutritious alternative to traditional wheat -based pasta.
• Amaranth leaf powder- Dried amaranth leaves can be ground into a fine powder and used as a nutritional supplement or seasoning. Amaranth leaf powder is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to smoothies, soups, sauces, and seasoning blends.

Serious amaranth farming in Kenya can not only enhance food security, nutrition, and income generation but also foster a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural system that benefits the farmers and consumers as well.

Blood Orange Farming in Kenya: Demand Beyond Borders

When we talk of blood orange, the outstanding feature we are likely to mention is its reddish to maroon flesh that is due to the presence of anthocyanins compounds. These are compounds that are linked to improving cardiovascular health, enhancing cognitive function, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Apart from these benefits, blood oranges are packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that offer numerous benefits just like other citrus fruits. Some of the key nutrients include.

Vitamin C- Vitamin C supports immune function, collagen production, and overall skin health.

Fibre- Blood oranges contain dietary fibre which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Antioxidants- They include the anthocyanins that have earlier talked about them being responsible for the red colour in the oranges.

In addition to these nutrients, blood oranges provide small amounts of Potassium, Calcium, and Vitamin A, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Blood orange farming in Kenya is not as widespread as other citrus fruits like the other oranges or lemons, but it has been gaining popularity and an increasing interest among farmers in the recent years due to the potential for higher profits. However, compared to other fruits, the cultivation of these oranges is still relatively limited.

In Kenya, Rift valley and coastal regions provide the necessary combination of sunlight, well-drained soils, and sufficient water availability that is suitable for blood orange cultivation.

Cultivation practices.

To successfully farm blood oranges, you have to carefully put attention to the cultivation practices. You can typically propagate blood oranges through grafting on to suitable root stocks of your choice thus ensuring optimal tree health and fruit quality. Proper irrigation management is essential, particularly during the dry season, to support consistent fruit production and prevent water stress. Apart from that, regular pruning and pest management are crucial to control diseases and maintain tree vigor.

Market opportunities.

The market for blood oranges presents promising opportunities for Kenyan farmers. The unique flavor and vibrant colour of blood oranges appeal to consumers both domestically and internationally. Export markets such as Europe and North America, have a growing demand for special citrus fruit like blood oranges. Kenyan farmers can take advantage of this opportunity by producing high quality oranges that meet the international standards in terms of taste, appearance and safety from pests and diseases.

Value added products.

Blood oranges can be processed into juices, jams, and extracts, which can extend shelf life, create additional revenue streams, and capitalize on consumer demand for convenience and health-focused products.

Also Read:A Guide To Enjoying All Year Round Fruits: Off Season Fruits.

Exploring The Market For Your Fruits and Vegetables: Where Do i Sell My Fruits and Vegetables?

As a farmer, the ever-present question is ‘where will my produce find its market?’. Understanding the market for your produce is crucial for success and growth. Knowing where to target your efforts can maximize profits and ensure your products reach the right consumers. When we talk of markets, we do not only mean the “where” but also the “who”. Who are your targets markets? In this article, I will be helping you brainstorm and find out the possible markets for your produce.

A photo of a fruits and vegetables local market.

1.    Local markets.

These are the selling opportunities in your local area, they include the farmer’s markets, grocery stores, and community-supported programs (CSA). Local markets are a good opportunity for your products because as a farmer you have a direct access to consumers who value freshness and quality. When searching for a local market, you can engage with local businesses and consumers to establish relationships and gauge the demand.

2.    Online platforms

We are living in a digital era, and this means you can make the most out of the online pages. Embrace the digital age by leveraging online platforms to sell your produce. You can create an e-commerce website or join online market places that are tailored to farm fresh products. Social media itself is also a powerful tool for marketing and connecting with potential customers.

3.    Specialty markets

Specialty markets are stores that sell particular products. You can identify markets that align with your product and create links to do business with them. You can consider targeting health food stores, organic markets, gourmets’ food shops catering to specific dietary preferences or culinary trends and supply them with your farm produce.

4.    Institutional buyers

Explore opportunities to supply institutions such as schools, hospitals, corporate cafeterias etc. Contracting with institutional buyers can provide stable demand for your produce enabling you to have a steady income as well. You can also establish connections with chefs and food service establishments to supply them with fresh, high-quality products. Many restaurants prioritize locally sourced produce, offering an excellent market for your products.

5.    Export opportunities

Investigate export opportunities to international markets. You can research import regulations, market trends, and potential distribution partners to successfully enter foreign markets.

Apart from selling your direct farm produce, another way of making sales can be through diversifying your products by exploring value-added products such as jams, sauces, or dried fruits. These products can open up new markets and provide additional revenue streams for your business.

If you are a farmer with ready to sell fruits and vegetables, kindly register with us, Richfarm Kenya on our email info@richfarmkenya.com . Provide details of the fruits, variety, acreage and location of the farm.

Also Read: A Guide To Enjoying All Year Round Fruits: Off Season Fruits.

  

Basil Farming in Kenya: "Herb of Love".

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the demand for herbs and this can highly be attributed to the growing consumer interest in healthy and natural foods, the popularity of international dishes that use a variety of these herbs and the increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with consuming herbs. In Kenya, basil farming presents a promising opportunity due to its high demand in the local and international markets as well as its relatively low input requirements. In this guide, I will give you insights into basil farming practices, keep reading.

Basil Farming in Kenya.

Basil is grown in many parts of Kenya including Nakuru, Naivasha, Meru, Kakamega, Bungoma, Machakos, Mombasa and Malindi. Basil farming in Kenya can be grown throughout the year in regions with temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It thrives in warm, tropical climates that have ample sunlight exposure. The ideal soil for basil cultivation is well-drained loamy soil with good fertility and a pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.

Best variety of basil to cultivate in Kenya.

Several basil varieties are suitable for cultivation in Kenya. As a farmer, you should choose a variety based on the market demand, local climate conditions and the intended use. Some varieties such as sweet basil are particularly well suited to the Kenyan climate and is also popular among farmers and consumers. Sweet basil is the most widely cultivated variety worldwide. It has a sweet aromatic flavor and is relatively easy to grow and generally adapts well to different growing conditions.

Propagation of basil.

You can propagate basil from seeds or stem cuttings. When propagating from seed, you sow the seeds directly into the trays or prepared seedbeds. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs which is about 7 to 14 days. On the other hand, propagating from cutting involves selecting healthy non-flowering stems and cutting them just below a node. You can dip it in a rooting hormone and then plant it directly or pot it.

Cultivation of basil.

Cultivating basil, whether for your personal use or commercial purposes, involves several key steps like choosing a favourable location that has good sunlight exposure and well drained soil that is rich in organic matter, transplanting basil seedlings with a spacing of 20-30 cm apart to allow for proper airflow and growth. Basil requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. You can also practice mulching around the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain soil temperature.

Maturity/Harvesting /Post harvesting of basil leaves.

60 to 70 days from when you seeded your basil, you will be harvesting. You can harvest the plants at a height of 15-20cm when they have developed 6 to 8 pairs of leaves. After harvesting, sort them in sizes or quality then wash them gently, dry them in paper towels and store them in perforated plastic bags or airtight containers in the refrigerators to maintain freshness and extend shelf life.

Something you didn’t know about basil.

Beyond its culinary and medicinal uses that am yet to discuss in the next article, basil has a historical and cultural significance. In different cultures basil is a symbol of love and fidelity. In Greek tradition, basil is considered a token of love, and is often exchanged between lovers as a symbol of devotion. In Italy, it is known as ”herb of love” and is often included in wedding bouquets to bring happiness and good luck to the newlyweds.