Cherry Tomato Farming in Kenya.

 Cherry tomatoes are small, round tomatoes that typically have a diameter of about 1-2 inches. They come in various colours ranging from red, yellow, orange and green when unripe. They belong to the same family as those other big tomatoes, the only difference is the size, the flavour, maturity period, yield and uses.

Cherry Tomatoes

Varieties of cherry tomatoes commonly grown in Kenya

Choosing the right variety is crucial for maximizing yield. Some of the most popular cherry tomatoes varieties include.

ü  Sun Gold- This is a yellow-orange variety famous for its tangy sweetness. They have high sugar content making them one of the sweetest cherry tomato varieties. They are a perfect choice for snacking, salads and garnishes. Sun gold variety is intermediate, meaning it continues to grow and produce fruits throughout the growing season. It requires trellising to support its vine-like growth, which can reach up to 2 metres in height. It thrives best in warm, sunny conditions requiring temperatures between 70 degrees Celsius for best results. This variety is relatively resistant to many common tomato diseases such as fusarium wilt and verticillium wilt.

 Sweet 100- This one is a highly productive variety known for its incredible sweetness and abundant harvest. It is loved by home gardeners and commercial farmers due to its vigorous growth and high fruit yield. The tomatoes are small, round, and typically bright red in colour when fully ripe. They grow in long clusters, often with more than 100 tomatoes per cluster, which is where they get their name from. The vines in this case need trellising to support their rapid growth and heavy fruit clusters. On the growing conditions, sweet 100 thrives in warm temperatures that require full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day for optimal growth and fruit production. This variety is resistant to Fusarium wilt, Verticillium wilt and nematodes.

 Tiny Tim-This variety is loved by home gardeners for its compact size, making it ideal for small spaces like containers and windowsills. Despite its small stature, this variety produces an abundance of sweet, juicy tomatoes, making it a perfect choice for urban gardening and small-scale farming. Tiny Tim tomatoes are small, round, and bright red in colour when fully ripe. Tomatoes of this variety have a middle sweet flavour with a slight tang. While not as intensely sweet as other varieties like Sun Gold or Sweet 100, their balanced flavor makes them versatile for a wide range of dishes. Despite the small size of Tiny Tim, it is highly productive, often yielding clusters of small tomatoes in a concentrated harvest. It thrives in a wide range of climates but like most tomatoes, it prefers warm weather. It can also be grown indoors year-round with proper lighting and care. Tiny Tim has one of the most unique features, its ability to thrive in containers and small spaces.

Health benefits and Nutritional Value associated with Cherry tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants like lycopene, and other essential nutrients such as Potassium and fiber. Regular consumption has been linked to improved heart health, enhanced skin and reduced risks of certain cancers.

Ideal growing conditions for cherry tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes thrive in warm, sunny climates that require temperatures of between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius for optimal growth. Cherry tomatoes require well-drained loamy soils that are rich in organic matter and that have a pH of between 6.0 and 6.8. Cherry tomatoes need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for maximum yield. In regions with extreme heat, partial shade during the hottest part of the day can protect the plants from stress and sun scald.

Propagation methods

Most farmers start cherry tomatoes indoors or in nurseries and then transplant them after 4-6 weeks. Transplanting ready seedlings improves early crop establishment and can extend the growing season.

In warmer climates, cherry tomatoes can be directly seeded into the soil all you have to ensure is the soil temperatures are above 20 degrees Celsius to promote germination.

Planting and Spacing

Cherry tomatoes should be planted at a spacing of 60cm between plants, with rows spaced 90 to 120cm apart. Proper spacing ensures adequate air circulation, reduces disease pressure and allows for better light penetration.

Irrigation Practices

Cherry tomatoes require consistent and deep watering. Drip irrigation is ideal as it delivers water directly to the root zone, reduces water wastage and minimizes the risk of foliar diseases. It is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during fruiting to prevent problems like blossom-end rot and fruit cracking.

Fertilization and Nutrient Management on Cherry Tomatoes

Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require balanced fertilization for optimal growth. It is advisable to carry out a soil test before planting so as to determine nutrient deficiencies and work on amending effectively. Typically, cherry tomatoes benefit from;

Nitrogen

 It promotes the vegetative growth in the plants. For inorganic farming, you can apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers during early growth and organic farmers can used organic matter such as poultry manure.

Phosphorus

It encourages root development and flowering. Phosphorus rich fertilizers, compost and green manure can be incorporated at planting.

Potassium- It enhances fruit development and overall plant health. Regular applications of potassium are essential during the fruiting stage.

Staking and Pruning of Cherry Tomatoes 

Cherry tomatoes are indeterminate in nature, meaning they continue growing and producing throughout the growing season. Stacking or using trellises is essential to keep the vines off the ground, prevents disease, and promote larger yields.

Pruning excess foliage also improves airflow, reduces disease risk, and channels towards fruit production.

Common Pest and Diseases that attack Cherry Tomatoes

Common pests are;

Aphids-These are sap- sucking insects that weaken plants. They can be controlled using neem oil or insecticidal soaps.

Tomato horn worms- These are large caterpillars that feed on leaves and fruits.

White flies- These pests cause yellowing and weakening of plants.

Common diseases

Early blight- It causes dark lesions on leaves and stems. Its best prevented by uses of disease resistant varieties and practice of crop rotation.

Powdery mildew- A fungal disease that affects leaves, reducing photosynthesis. For powdery mildew, use sulphur-based fungicides or biological controls to manage outbreaks.

Blossom- End Rot- A calcium deficiency disorder that causes sunken, dark spots on fruits. Ensure consistent watering and adequate calcium levels in the soil.

Harvest and Post-harvest handling

Cherry tomatoes take 60-80 days to mature after transplanting, depending on the variety. They should be harvested when they reach their full colour and size but while they are still firm to touch. During and after harvesting, cherry tomatoes should be handled with care to avoid bruising then they are stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight for best flavour. For longer storage, cherry tomatoes can be refrigerated, though this may slightly affect their taste.

Soursop Farming in Kenya

Soursop, known as “stafeli” in Swahili, is a tropical fruit that has increasingly gained popularity across Africa over the years. Soursop is mainly known for its medicinal properties and its distinctive taste that gives a combination of strawberry, pineapple and citrus. Soursop is part of the Annonaceae family, known for its spiny fruits that can weigh up to 4.5kg. While not native to Kenya, soursop farming has gained popularity due to its adaptability to the Kenyan climate, high market demand and potential for profit.

Soursop Fruit

Soursop thrives in relatively warm climates. In Kenya, the ideal regions for soursop farming include areas such as the coastal region, parts of Eastern and Nyanza, and the Lake Victoria basin. These are areas that experience the required temperatures, which range between 21 and 30 degrees Celsius, with minimal temperature fluctuations. Soursop grows well in well-drained slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. The plant thrives in loamy or sandy soils, but it can also adapt to clay soils if proper drainage is provided. Poorly drained soils may lead to root rot and stunted growth.

Before planting, farmers are advised to conduct soil tests to determine the pH and nutrient content of their soil and adjust accordingly by incorporating organic matter or appropriate fertilizers.

Propagation of Soursop

Soursop can be propagated through seeds or a vegetative method such as grafting.

When propagating from seed, select seeds from healthy, disease-free fruits and plant them. You can sow the seeds in nursery beds or directly into polybags that are filled with rich soil. The seeds take 20-30 days to germinate. The seedlings can then be transplanted after 6-months, once they are about 30-40cm tall.

When propagating from grafting, a soursop scion from a healthy, mature plant is grafted on to a compatible rootstock.

Planting and  Ideal spacing of soursop

It is advisable to transplant your soursop seedlings at the beginning of the rainy season. Soursop trees require adequate spacing to ensure proper air circulation and sunlight penetration and we therefore recommend a spacing of 5metres between trees and 5metres between rows. This results in a planting density of around 400 trees in an acre. The planting holes should be 60cm deep and 60cm wide to ensure the roots of your plants have enough space for establishment.

Young soursop trees should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Established trees can tolerate drought but benefit from supplemental irrigation during flowering and fruit development. Drip irrigation systems are ideal, as they conserve water while ensuring adequate moisture levels in the soil.

Regular fertilization is key to a productive soursop orchard. Organic compost, well-rotted manure, or commercially available fertilizers rich in Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium should be applied.

Common Soursop Pests and Diseases

 Soursop is susceptible to several pests and diseases which can negatively impact yield. Some of these are fruit flies, scale insects, and mealybugs. Neem oil or organic pesticides can be used to control pests. Diseases such as anthracnose and root rot may also occur, especially in poorly drained soils. You should ensure proper sanitation, regular pruning, and use of fungicides where necessary.

Harvesting and Post Harvest Handling.

Soursop trees typically start producing fruit 3-5 years after planting, depending on the propagation method used. The fruits are ready for harvesting when they are fully grown and slightly soft to the touch, usually about 4-5 days after the skin turns light green. Harvesting is usually done manually by cutting the fruit from the stem using something sharp to avoid bruising. The fruits are highly perishable and should be consumed, sold or processed within 3-5 days after harvesting. For extended shelf life, soursop can be processed into juices, purees, or frozen for export.

Market Potential and Uses of  Soursop

Soursop is a highly nutritious fruit, rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fibre. It has a unique sweet-sour flavor and is used in making fresh juices, smoothies, ice cream, and desserts. Soursop has also gained popularity for its medicinal properties, particularly in alternative medicine where it is believed to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-parasitic properties.

In Kenya, there is growing demand for soursop in local markets, especially in health-conscious urban centres such as Nairobi and Mombasa.

Globally, soursop is considered a superfood due to its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Kenya has the potential to tap into the growing international market particularly in Europe, Middle East and North America, where demand for exotic fruit is high. Exporting processed soursop products, such as juice and pulp, offers additional revenue streams for Kenyan farmers.

Challenges in Soursop Farming in Kenya

Despite its potential, several challenges hinder the widespread adoption of soursop farming, but I will only mention out one of the major challenges.

 Limited Knowledge – Many farmers are unfamiliar with the agronomic practices required to grow soursop.

Top 5 High Yielding Banana Varieties in Kenya

Banana farming in Kenya has seen a significant transformation in recent years, driven by the introduction of high-yielding banana varieties. These new varieties are not only boosting productivity but also providing resilience against common diseases and adverse climatic conditions. This article explores the top 5 high yielding banana varieties cultivated in Kenya, examining the factors contributing to their high yields, their physical characteristics and their primary uses. These bananas include FHIA17, Grand Nain, Williams, FHIA25, and Giant Cavendish.

FHIA17: one of the most productive banana varieties in Kenya

1.    FHIA 17

This is a hybrid variety developed by the Honduras Foundation for Agricultural Research and Kenyan Agricultural Research Institute. FHIA 17 is part of the FHIA series that focuses on producing bananas with improved resistance to diseases and better yield potential. FHIA 17 is an early maturing variety that bears medium-sized fruits that are up to 20cm long. They turn yellow when ripe. FHIA 17 is a multi-purpose banana that is suitable for both cooking and ripening.

There are a number of factors that make FHIA 17 a high yielding banana, one of them being its resistance to diseases. This banana variety is resistant to major banana diseases such as black Sigatoka, fusarium wilt, banana weevil and panama disease. This ensures they have a higher yielding potential, up to 30 tonnes per acre annually.

2.    Grand Nain

This is another high yielding banana variety cultivated in Kenya. It is valued for its uniform fruit size and appealing taste. Grand Nain bananas are resistant to several common banana diseases and can yield up to 40 tonnes under optimal conditions. This variety thrives in well-drained soils with regular fertilization and irrigation.

3.     Williams

This is a variety of the Cavendish subgroup. It’s a popular variety that is known for its robust nature and large fruits that are sweet and ideal for export. It yields around 50-60 tonnes per hectare. It is highly resistance to fusarium wilt and other diseases, making it suitable for large-scale commercial farming.

4.     Giant Cavendish

This variety is characterized by large, curved bananas that have a thick peel and a creamy, sweet and firm flesh. This variety is herbaceous, growing up to 6-metres in height. Giant Cavendish is considered a commercial favourite because it produces large bunches of bananas and has a relatively short time to maturity making it highly productive. Its large bananas weigh from about 40 to 60 kilograms per bunch under optimal conditions. Giant Cavendish is highly productive and its high productivity is attributed to its genetic traits, its rapid growth and short harvest cycle, its bunch size and weight.

5.     FHIA 25

This a hybrid banana variety that was also developed by the Honduras Foundation for Agricultural Research. It was developed to address some of the limitations of traditional banana varieties, particularly in terms of disease resistance and productivity. This variety is resistant to black Sigatoka and panama disease which are a common threat to traditional banana varieties. The banana is robust and performs well in a variety of environments, increasing its productivity potential.

Tips for Growing Big, Healthy Sukuma Matumbo (Curly Kale) in Kenya

Curly Kale Container Farming

1. Start with disease-free seedlings

Nothing ruins a race like a foul start. All that I will tell you next about curly kale farming in Kenya will not be important if you start your farm with poor seedlings. To ensure that you get disease-free seedlings, buy only from professional propagators that have raised the seedlings in trays using coco-peat or peat moss – never take the risk by buying seedlings raised in soil (zile za kungoa kwa mchanga).

Professionally Propagated Sukuma Matumbo seedlings at Richfarm Nurseries

2. Plant in the right environment

Soil

Curly kales grow best on soils that are not soggy – too much soil moisture will inhibit the roots' ability to take up nutrients. So if you are in the rainy highlands of Kenya like Nyandarua and Kericho, ensure that you plant your Sukuma matumbo on raised beds. Also, ensure the soils are rich in organic matter and nitrogen: these are leafy vegetables hence nitrogen will be needed in high quantities. Do not worry if you want to do it organically since you can get plenty of nitrogen from chicken, goat or cow manure. Don’t forget to check your soil acidity; that’s what we call soil pH. It should be between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sunlight

If you are in the Kenyan highlands, you are good to go since the temperatures are in check throughout the year. You also get free partial shade from the clouds that hang over you for the better part of the year. Sukuma matumbo farming is also possible in the hotter lowlands of Kenya, but you will need to plant them in a place with partial shade for best results – you can use a shade net or plant the vegetables under other crops such as fruit trees.

Kale farming under a  Net house: The net provides the partial shade needed

Important point: they should not be under dark tree shades all day long; allow them to get a bit of direct sunlight.

Spacing

We want nice, big, and healthy leaves so we shall provide ample spacing. I recommend 45cm from plant to plant and 60cm between the rows. This spacing provides adequate ground for the roots to get the necessary nutrients and also the free flow of air which we know is very important for any crop.  

3. Irrigation

Curly kales grow best in soils that are high in moisture: please remember we have already said the soils should not be soggy. That means you will definitely need to irrigate your crops during the hot and dry seasons. Overhead irrigation system or what we call sprinkler is the best.

The need for sufficient water for irrigation should not be a hindrance if you want to grow your sukuma matumbo in Lodwar, Garisa or Kilifi. A good mulch with dry grass will help you conserve the soil moisture so well that you will only need to irrigate once in a week. However, if your soils are too sandy, you will need to go an extra mile in terms of irrigation.

4. Applying Fertilizer

We are glad that in Kenya, manure is now cheaper and more readily available as compared to chemical fertilizers. We are always inclined towards organic growing of vegetables so we shall start by recommending the use of compost or animal manure. Incorporate well decomposed manure into the first upper 15-20 cm of your planting soil: do not let it be buried too deep since curly kales are not deep rooted.

If you must use chemical fertilizers, start with a balanced NPK like NPK 17:17:17. I know some people insist on starting with DAP but if you have started with good healthy seedlings as I told you in the beginning, DAP is not necessary at the transplanting stage because the seedlings will already have gotten that in the nursery and formed well developed roots. Also, the Phosphorous in triple 17 will still boost further root formation.

After 4-6 weeks, top-dress your kales with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer – a vegetative foliar will be great. At this stage, we haven’t started harvesting so for us doing organic, we can use compost tea, fish emulsion, or rabbit urine.  I prefer the tea… This is essential to promote leafy growth.

For those who don’t mind chemicals, this is the best time to apply CAN or an NPK that has higher N than P and K.

5. Weed Control

Sukuma matumbo, and all other kale varieties for that matter, hates weeds. Weeds take up a lot of nitrogen from the soil and that is the most important nutrient for our crop. We cannot over-emphasize the importance of this practice. Mulching also helps in reducing weed growth so consider that if you do not want a lot of weeding work… I’m sure you don’t.

6. Pest and Disease Management

If you have followed my advice from 1 to 5 above, pests and diseases will not be much of a problem for you. I’ll tell you why… This is the secret: healthy plants repel pests and are less susceptible to diseases.

However, to be on the safe side, watch out for aphids and black worms. These are the most common enemies. To control them, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, rabbit urine or seaweed products sprayed directly on the leaves.

Alternatively, plant your sukuma matumbo alongside garlic, onions, or herbs like mint. This helps repel pests.

Diseases: Sukuma matumbo variety of kale is generally hardy and you are less likely going to deal with any diseases. However, during the warm and dump season, it can suffer downy mildew, powdery mildew, or black spots. Neem leaf extracts can help you to deal with that. For our friends on the other side, I recommend the use of copper-based fungicides if you are attacked by these diseases.

7. Pruning and Harvesting

This is a practice curly kale farmers in Kenya often forget. You must regularly remove the old and yellowing leaves. If you don’t, they will keep competing for nutrients with the other leaves yet you will not use them eventually. I also suggest that once your crop starts producing nice big leaves, all the small lower leaves should be removed.

When you start harvesting, start from the bottom of the plant once they reach the desired size. Avoid the temptation of going for the central growing leaves which might look very attractive. Keep harvesting all the mature leaves: do not let them over-grow while still on the plant.

Start by harvesting the lower leaves

Bonus point for curly kale farming in Kenya

Once you have tasted the sweetness of sukuma matumbo, I am sure you will want to do it again. However, before you plant your next crop of sukuma matumbo, I recommend that you crop-rotate by planting something else like beans, peas or even maize. That will reduce the chances of your next crop getting affected by common diseases.

Plum Farming in Kenya

Plum farming in Kenya is and has not been widespread as other fruit farming ventures like mango or avocado farming. It has gained popularity in the last few decades with the growing interest in diverse fruit farming options, introduction of suitable varieties and better understanding of the crop’s requirements. Plum trees are deciduous, requiring a cool climate that has distinct seasons for them to thrive. They are primarily grown in Kenya’s highland regions, where the climate and soil are favourable. The main areas being Kiambu, Nyeri, Murang’a, Nakuru, Kericho and some parts of Meru County.

Plums are stone fruits that belong to the genus Prunus, which also includes peaches, cherries and almonds. They are known for their juicy flesh and smooth, often colourful skin, ranging from red and purple to yellow and green. Plums are known to be rich in vitamins A, C, and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, making them popular for fresh consumption and processing into products like jams, juices and prunes.

Popular plum varieties grown in Kenya.

• Santa Rosa
• Satsuma
• Shiro
• Cherry plum
• Harry Pickstone

Ideal Climate and Soil requirements for the growth of plums

Temperatures: Plum requires temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. They need a cool period to encourage flowering.

Rainfall: Plums require well distributed rainfall of about 800-1200mm per year. However, they do not tolerate waterlogging making proper drainage essential.

Soil type: Well-drained, loamy soils with good organic matter content are ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 and 6.5.

Propagation of plums

Plums can be propagated from seeds but for uniformity in fruit quality and early maturity, grafting is recommended. It is advisable to get the grafted seedlings from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. You can contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357/0723213602/0798919007 to place your order.

Ideal spacing for plum trees

We recommend a spacing of 5m between your plum trees and by 5m between the rows to allow enough room for growth and ease of management.

Planting holes size

When preparing to plant your plum trees, dig holes measuring 60cm by 60cm by 60cm that is 2ft by 2ft by 2ft and then mix the topsoil with compost or well-decomposed manure before refilling the hole.

Planting time

The best time to plant your plums is during the onset of the rainy season, usually in March or October. Timing this period is important to ensure sufficient water availability and good establishment of the seedling.

Management practices in plum farming

Irrigation

Just like other plants, plums need supplementary irrigation during the dry seasons especially during the flowering and fruit development stages.

Pruning

Pruning your plums is very important as it will help you get rid of the dead or diseased branches, encourage air circulation and will also shape your plant in a way that allows sunlight penetration. The best time to prune your plant trees will definitely be during their dormant season, ideally June or July.

Common plum pests and diseases

Plum trees are susceptible to several pests and diseases, which can impact fruit quality and yield if not properly managed. Some of the common ones are.

• Aphids-These are sap sucking insects that cause leaf curling, stunted growth, and transmit viral diseases.
• Fruit flies-The lay eggs inside the fruit, leading to maggot-infested plums.
• Plum Curculio-Plum curculio pest bores into the fruit to lay eggs causing premature fruit drop.
• Scale insects- These insects attach themselves to the plant branches and suck sap, weakening the tree and causing the branches to start drying up.
• Brown rot: This is a fungal disease that causes fruit rot, blossom blight, and cankers on branches. Its best control is pruning and removing infected parts, applying fungicides and ensuring proper air circulation around the plants.
• Black Knot- A fungal disease that causes black, swollen galls on the branches, leading to dieback.
• Bacterial spot- This disease causes small, water-soaked lesions on leaves, fruit, and twigs leading to defoliation and fruit blemishes.

Maturity period, Harvesting and Post-harvest handling of plums

Plums take about 3 years from planting to begin fruiting. Once the fruits are mature and are ready for harvesting, the biggest indicator is the colour change then softening of their skin. Plums have a delicate skin and therefore they need to be handled carefully to avoid damaging them.

Waiting for a fruit to reach its maturity and properly harvesting it is not enough. Proper post-harvest handling is crucial to maintain quality for marketability. Once you have harvested your plums, as a commercial farmer you should grade your plums, sort them out in terms of quality and size and then store them ready for market. If you are into value addition, process your plums in to jams, juices, dried prunes and many other products. This will extend the shelf life of your produce and also open up new market opportunities.

Market potential for plums

Local market

Plums among other fruits are a popular choice for fresh consumption. In Kenya we have supermarket chains, specialty stores, groceries, market stalls etc offering market for our plums.

Export market

There is a potential for exporting our Kenyan plums to regional markets such as Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda and also to the European markets. However, if you target the export markets, meeting international quality standards and certification will be crucial.

Challenges in plum fruit farming

While plum farming is profitable, it is not without challenges. Some of the challenges you are likely to encounter as a farmer are,

Changing climate_ Unexpected weather patterns can really affect flowering and fruit set.

Pest and disease-Plums are susceptible to pests and diseases and therefore they need to be managed properly to ensure the plants have high yields

Market fluctuations -Sometimes the law of supply and demand may actually hit in, and the prices may fluctuate depending on the supply and demand and this may affect profitability.

Beetroot Farming in Kenya: Common Asked Questions on Beetroot Farming.

Beetroot is a nutritious vegetable that is believed to have originated from the Mediterranean region, with early cultivation in ancient Egypt. It has been a staple vegetable in many dishes worldwide hence its popularity. It has several health benefits that include provision of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates, and proteins. Beetroot farming in Kenya has proven to be not only agriculturally viable but also economically rewarding. In this article, we shall explore all the commonly asked questions about beetroot farming to get you ready for cultivation.

Which is the ideal climate and soils for the growth of beetroot?

Beetroots thrive best in climates that are cool to warm, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 24 degrees Celsius. In Kenya, it can be grown in both the highland and lowland areas as long as the temperature is ranging from 10 to 24 degrees. The soil conditions for beetroot include well- drained loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a soil  pH of between  (6.0 to 7.0) that is rich in organic matter and free from stones to allow proper root development.

How should I prepare the soil for beetroot farming?

Thoroughly plow the soil to a depth of about 20-30cm deep to ensure the area is free of weeds and debris and to loosen up the soil to ensure the roots can penetrate deep in the soil. Next is to incorporate well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost and then prepare well-spaced rows for planting your beetroots.

Which varieties of beetroot are well suited for Kenyan conditions?

There are several varieties of beetroot grown worldwide, but in Kenya the most popular varieties that are known for their adaptability to Kenyan climates include Bolt hardy, Chioggia pink, Burpees’s golden, Cylindra, Rubidus and Detroit 6.

Which is the best time to plant beetroots in Kenya?

In Kenya, the best time to plant beetroots generally depends on the specific region and the local climate conditions. However, optimal planting time is during the cool seasons, onset of the rainy seasons typically from March to June and September to November.

What is the recommended spacing for planting beetroots in Kenya?

A spacing of 10-15cm between the beetroots plants is ideal to allow for proper root development, optimal growth, and yield. Give a spacing of 30cm apart between the rows to make it easy for cultivation activities such as fertilizing and also harvesting.

How many days does it take to harvest beetroots?

The time it takes to harvest beetroots can vary depending on the variety of the beetroot, the growing conditions, and the desired size for harvest. Typically, 60- 80 days after planting, beetroots are ready for harvesting. By then, the roots are about 5-10cm in diameter. Harvesting is done by pulling the roots from the soil. Once can also use a fork to lift them up while ensuring you do it carefully to avoid damaging the beet.

What post-harvest activities should I follow for my beetroot to last longer?

After harvesting beetroots, trim the tops to prevent moisture loss leaving about an inch of the stem. Wash the beetroots thoroughly to remove soil and then grade them according to size and quality. Store them in a cool, dark place with proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot. Properly stored beets can last for several weeks without refrigeration and several months under refrigeration.

How can I market my beetroot produce in Kenya?

Beetroot has a steady market in Kenya, particularly in urban areas and supermarkets. The crop can be sold fresh, processed into juices, or dried for powder. When marketing, research local market trends and establish connections with markets, supermarkets, and restaurants. Consider getting an organic certification to enable you to tap into the growing market for organic produce.

Also Read: Lemon Farming in Kenya. A Guide to Planting and Market Opportunities.

Lemon Farming in Kenya: Guidelines For Planting and Market Opportunities

Lemon farming in Kenya has experienced substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for lemons both domestically and internationally. Lemons are a vital ingredient in many Kenyan households. They are used for culinary purposes, juice production and traditional medicine among other uses. Kenyan lemons are a face of attraction in the global markets due to their vibrant flavor and high vitamin C content. The diverse agro-ecological zones in Kenya have made it suitable for cultivating lemon in all parts of the country making Kenya stand as one of the largest lemon producers in Africa.

Rough Lemon

Climate and soil requirements for lemon cultivation

Lemons thrive in warm climates and require a consistent supply of water for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for lemon farming is between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius. Regions with well-distributed rainfall of 1000 to 1500mm per year are suitable for lemon farming. However, irrigation is necessary in drier areas to supplement rainfall, particularly during the dry season.

Soil is a critical factor in lemon farming. Lemons just like other plants prefer well-drained soils. They prefer sandy loam soils that have a Ph range of about 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy root development and nutrient absorption.

Lemon farming requires careful planning and implementation of best practices to ensure healthy growth and high yields.

Step by step guidelines for planting lemons.

1.      Site Selection/ Soil preparation

Choose a location that has well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging which can affect your lemon trees by causing root rot. The area should also have a full sun light exposure. Once you have selected a suitable site, conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels of the soil. You can then incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to improve its structure and nutrient content.

2.      Choose the right varieties

Any successful farming begins with choosing suitable varieties of the plant or crop you want to cultivate. In Kenya, several lemon varieties are cultivated, each with its unique characteristics and adaptability to the diverse agro-climatic conditions. Eureka, Lisbon, Meyer and rough lemon varieties are the most popular choices for lemon farmers in Kenya. These varieties thrive well in the country’s tropical and subtropical climates, displaying resilience to various environmental conditions.

v Eureka Lemon

Eureka lemons have a medium to large size with an oval shape and a bright yellow color. They are characterized with a smooth thin skin, minimal seeds and a high juice content that makes them popular for both commercial purposes and home uses.

Eureka lemons are well-suited to areas with warm temperatures and can tolerate a range of soil types. They are generally suitable for planting in various regions in Kenya. Eureka is an early maturing variety that starts to produce from around the 12 month after planting. Its productive throughout the year, making it a consistent source of harvest.

v Lisbon Lemon

They are similar in appearance to Eureka lemons. They have a tangy flavor and soo much juice.

They do well in subtropical climates with well -drained soils that benefit from regular watering. Depending on the amount of care you give to your Lisbon plants, they can be productive throughout the year providing a steady supply for both local consumption and commercial markets. Lisbon lemon variety is known to be resistant to some of the most common citrus diseases.

v Meyer Lemon

This is a hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange. Meyer lemons are known to be slightly sweeter than other varieties.

v Rough Lemon

This variety is mainly used as a rootstock for grafting other citruses, but they are also grown for their fruits. This variety is hardy and resistant to drought, making it suitable for arid regions.

Where do I get lemon seedlings from?

Get your ready to plant lemon seedlings from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. Call or whatsapp them at 0724698357/0723213602/0798919007 to make your order.

3.      Planting

During planting, dig holes with dimensions of approximately 1.5ft in depth and 2ft in width. Space the holes at least 10 to 15 feet if planting standard sized lemons and 6 to 8 feet if planting a dwarf sized variety to allow for proper growth. If planting from a seedling, place the tree in the centre of the hole then backfill the hole with the soil which is a mix of topsoil with compost or manure while gently pressing it down to create firmness.

4.      Watering

Once you are done with planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil. Maintain consistent watering, especially during the establishment phase. Drip irrigation is the most efficient method, as it delivers water directly to the root zone and reduces wastage. You can also carry out mulching around the base of the plant to help in retaining moisture and suppressing weeds.

5.      Pruning

Prune the lemon tree to shape it and encourage a strong structure and to allow free air circulation.

6.      Ongoing care

·       Regularly inspect the lemon tree for signs of stress, pests, or diseases.

·       Adjust water based on weather conditions.

·       Provide additional support during heavy fruit-bearing seasons.

Common pests and diseases that attack lemon plants

Lemon farming in Kenya faces several challenges that can affect productivity and profitability. Among them is pests and diseases. Lemons are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as.

Ø  Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.

Ø  Citrus thrips: Thrips damage young fruits, causing scars and deformities

Ø  Citrus leaf miner: This pest creates tunnels in the leaves, leading to curling and distortion.

Ø  Citrus Canker: A bacterial disease that causes lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit. It can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plants parts and applying copper-based fungicides.

Ø  Root rot: Caused by waterlogged conditions. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding over watering.

 Harvesting

Un grafted lemon trees typically start bearing fruits after about 3 to 5 years after planting with the grafted ones taking an year or two to start fruiting. Harvesting can be done when the lemons reach their full size and develop a yellow colour. For varieties like Eureka, Lisbon and rough lemon, harvesting is done when the fruits are fully ripe, while Meyer lemons can be harvested when they are still green. Harvesting of lemons just like other fruits should be done carefully to avoid damaging the fruit.

Market opportunities

Kenyan lemons hold a tremendous market potential with a growing demand for fresh produce and processed citrus products. Export markets in Europe and the Middle East offer lucrative opportunities for farmers, encouraging the adoption of quality assurance measures to meet international standards.

To increase your profitability, you can get in to value addition through the production of lemon juices, essential oils, preservatives, lemon flavoured tea leaves and many other lemon-based products. As a farmer who is looking forward to getting the most out of your lemons, you can explore niche markets such as organic farming, which commands premium prices.

Related links:Lemon Farming in Wajir.