Why Pixie Orange Farming In Kenya?

Pixie orange farming in Kenya is one form of agribusiness that has picked up pace faster than any other. The reasons for this are obvious; it is highly profitable, and that is not the only attractive bit about it. Perhaps the fact that pixie oranges can be grown even in arid and semi-arid areas like Machakos, Kitui, Baringo and the coastal regions of Kwale and Kilifi, is what has led to its boom in the country.

The market factors are also in favor of pixie orange farming. Currently the demand for these juicy fruits is so high because of their higher quality and sweetness compared to other varieties of oranges. On the other hand, supply is still very low as most farmers discovered this variety just the other day. That explains why the prices of pixie are still so high even in our local supermarkets. We are yet to satisfy the local market while the export market still yarns for the same product.

Pixie Orange Farming in Kenya

Where can pixie oranges be grown in Kenya?

Pixie grows in a wide range of soil type but performs the best in areas with fertile and well drained soils. Hence, areas with deep sandy loam soils are best. So farmers in Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi and Lamu should be making millions from pixie orange farming already.

The reason why most of the pixie we consume in Kenya comes from Ukambani is the fact that this variety, just like all the other orange varieties, grows best in warm or hot areas with low to moderate rainfall. Temperatures should range from 10 to 30℃ with 6 to 8 hours of sunshine. Now areas with such climate like Murang’a, Nyeri, Bungoma, Siaya and Migori that were not know to produce any oranges have also taken up the farming of pixie and are doing well.

How to Plant Pixie Orange trees

Pixie orange trees grow fast and their branches spread wide. For this reason, it is best to plant the trees with a spacing of 4x5m. 4m should be the space from one tree to the next while 5m is the spacing between lines. The lines should run in an East-West direction. This allows for the penetration of maximum amount of sunshine especially during flowering and fruiting.

Planting Spacing

The planting holes should be well prepared by digging them 2 by 2 feet wide and having a depth of 2 feet as well. In many areas, the first foot is the top soil while the other half is the bottom soil and is different. We use the top soil in planting. Mix the top soil well with decomposed manure and fill the mixture back into the hole leaving a depth of only about 10 cm. This space is to be used to hold irrigation water and additional manure.

If you are in areas whose soil is clay or black cotton, do not be discouraged. What you need to do during this preparation is include a bit of fine sand to the mixture of soil and manure. This will improve the internal soil drainage and your trees will thrive.

Maturity period of Pixie oranges

Grafted pixie oranges start fruiting in year two, giving about 30 to 50 fruits. But full maturity is 3 to 5 years depending on how well they are taken care of.

Once the fruits are mature and are ready for harvesting, the biggest indicator is the flavorful bright orange color change, and is firm to the touch.

Where to get seedlings

Richfarm Kenya always has ready to plant pixie seedlings. You can buy them from their nurseries in Embu or Naivasha. You can also call them on 0724698357 to make an order and they will deliver the seedlings to your farm.

Pixie Orange Farming in Kenya

Nutritional Benefits of Pixie Oranges

Pixies oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C to reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and boost collagen production within the skin.

Generally, citrus fruits such as pixie oranges, tangerines and lemons are particularly beneficial in case of infection since they supply antioxidant vitamins, together with the flavonoids which strengthens resistance to viruses.

Why Pixie Orange Farming is Booming in Kenya Now

Challenges in Pixie Fruit Farming

Pests and diseases

The pests and diseases that challenge pixie orange farmers in Kenya are not new and are rather easy to prevent and control. The common pests include leaf miners, aphids and thrips while the diseases are sooty mold, collar rot and powdery mildew. The good news is that there is a wide variety of safe products that you can use to deal with these challenges.

Pests and diseases are more serious if the soils are deficient of some minerals. Therefore, it is important to test your soil before planting so you can do the necessary amendments. It is also advisable to repeat the tests after sometime, say about 1 year.

Where do I sell my pixie fruit in Kenya?

Supermarkets and grocery shops currently form the largest market for pixie oranges in Kenya. This is already a huge market that has not had enough of these tasty fruits. A kilo of pixie retails for as high as Ksh. 200 making them look like fruits for the rich. The larger Wakulima Markets are yet to get a good share of pixie oranges. At this point, we cannot even talk about the exporting companies that are constantly hunting for the fruits and offering prices as high as Ksh150 at the farm gate.

How do I start pixie farming in Kenya?

The first step is to call in Richfarm Kenya experts to your farm. They will assess it and give you a comprehensive report on your soil, water and other requirements. They will draw up a plan for you that covers the entire journey from planting, through the taking care of the trees to the marketing of your produce.

The company can do the actual planting for you. They have a complete package in which you only need to pay and they will do the rest for you: soil test, preparation of the planting holes, provision of high quality grafted pixie seedlings, the actual planting, and then give you technical support for a lifetime.

Cost per seedling ksh. 250
Seedlings per acre- 200 trees
Spacing- 4m by 5m
Fruit price- 200 per kg at retail, 150 per kg at farmgate
Yield- 30-50 fruits in 2nd to 3rd year, 250 -300 in the third to fifth years. By the eighth year, bears 500-600 fruits annually.
Common pests- leaf miners, aphids and thrips
Common diseases- sooty mold, collar rot and powdery mildew, scales
Lifespan- 20-30 years

Frequently asked questions.

Why pixie orange farming?

Where can pixie oranges grow in Kenya?

How can one plant pixie oranges?

What is the best spacing when planting pixie oranges?

Where can one get seedlings for pixie oranges?

What are the challenges faced when doing pixie orange farming?

Where do I sell my pixie oranges?

How do I start pixie orange farming?

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 favorable. 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 best known for their juicy flesh and smooth, often colorful skin, ranging from red and purple to yellow and green.

Plum farming in Kenya: Harvesting starts 3 years after planting depending on variety

Nutritional benefits of the plum.

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. Therefore, regular plum consumption is a very appropriate prophylactic for all who are at risk of colon cancer, whether for genetic reasons or lifestyle reasons.

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 do 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 five meters between your plum trees, and five meters 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 color change then softening of their skin. Plums have a delicate skin and therefore they need to be handled carefully to avoid damaging them.

Harvested plum crop

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 your 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. However, plum farming is a profitable agribusiness that allows you to create a steady and sure income.

Cost per seedling ksh.350
Seedlings per acre-160
Spacing- 5m by 5m
Fruit price- 100-150 per kg
Yield- initially 5-10 tones, 15-20 tones after maturity of fruit trees (5th-6th year)
Common pests-plum curculio, aphids, fruit flies, scale insects
Common diseases- Bacterial spot, Black knot, Brown rot
Lifespan- deciduous

A Comprehensive Guide to Successful Coriander (Dhania) Farming in Kenya

Coriander, locally known as "dhania" in Kenya is a popular herb grown for its leaves and seeds. Dhania has a distinctive aroma and flavour that makes it a favourite among chefs,households and food industries. For farmers, coriander presents a fast-growing,low maintenance crop that thrives in Kenya's climate, offering both small scale and commercial farmers a reliable source of income.

Dhania plants.

Common Dhania varieties grown in Kenya.

In Kenya, several coriander varieties are cultivated to meet the diverse needs of consumers and adapt to different growing conditions. The varieties are selected based on their performance, taste, resistance to common pests and diseases, and sustainability to the Kenyan climate. As a farmer, you will always choose a dhania variety that aligns with your specific growing conditions and market demands. Some of the popular coriander varieties grown in Kenya include:

ü Leaf cilantro

ü Seed Coriander

ü Cilantro

ü Vietnamese coriander.

Ideal climatic conditions for the growth of coriander.

It is important that you pay attention to the climatic factors when planning coriander cultivation for a successful harvest. Coriander thrives best in diverse climates. Kenya has a diverse climate that supports an all-year-round growth of dhania.

Temperature: Dhania requires cool to moderate temperatures for optimal growth. Regions such as Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Trans-nzoia, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Murang’a with temperatures ranging between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius are ideal for coriander farming.

Rainfall: Regions with well- distributed rainfall offer excellent growing conditions for coriander.

Sunlight: Adequate sunlight of 6 to 8 hours a day is essential for coriander cultivation. However, coriander also needs some partial shade to prevent it from becoming too bitter.

Altitude: Coriander can be grown in various altitudes, but it is commonly cultivated in low to mid-altitude regions in Kenya. Altitude influences temperature and this means you should consider the specific temperature requirement of the coriander varieties you choose based on the altitude.

Soil requirements for growth of dhania

Coriander can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in loamy sandy soils. Understanding the best soil type for growth of coriander and preparing it accordingly is essential for successful cultivation. The dhania herb thrives in well-drained soils that have a slightly acidic to neutral pH and those that are rich in organic matter. Coriander just like other plants does not do well in poorly drained soils as they lead to root rot.

Step by step process of planting dhania.

Cultivating coriander involves a series of steps from seed sowing to harvesting.

Seed Selection – It is advisable that you choose dhania seeds/seedlings that are of high quality from a reputable source like Richfarm Kenya. Call or whatsapp 0724698357/0723213602 to make your order. Am sure you want to get the best out of your coriander farm so make sure you consider factors such as variety, germination rate, and disease resistance when selecting.

Land preparation- Proper preparation for any activity ensures a success and its not different from the farming context. Prepare your planting space by ensuring the area is free of weeds and debris. You should also ensure the soil is fine to enable seed germination and good plant growth then incorporate well- rotted organic matter such as compost or rotted manure to enhance fertility.

Sowing- Coriander can be grown from seeds or seedlings. If sowing from seeds, directly sow the dhania seeds in the prepared soil. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1-2 centimetres and space them about 5-10cm apart with the rows being spaced 15-20 centimetres apart. It is best to have them planted in rows to facilitate cultivation and harvesting. Deep planting of the seeds should be highly avoided as it may slow germination. Germination of coriander takes about 7-14 days, depending on soil temperature.

Watering- Water the seeds immediately after planting to initiate germination. Throughout the growing season, it is important that you maintain consistent soil moisture as dhania plant requires regular watering while avoiding waterlogging.

Thinning-Once the dhania seedlings germinate, pluck out the overcrowded ones. This process ensures there is a better air circulation and reduces the risks of diseases that may result due to lack of proper circulation.

Fertilization-To maximize on leaf and seed yield, you have to properly feed your dhania plant. You can apply balanced fertilizers during the growing season to provide essential nutrients to your dhania plants.

Pest and Disease Management-Coriander is relatively resistant to many pests, but it's susceptible to, aphids, cutworms and leaf spot disease. Check out for any signs of pest or disease and manage it on time.

Harvesting

Coriander can be harvested for leaves or seeds. Around a month after planting, dhania leaves are typically ready for harvesting. The leaves have a vibrant green colour and are fully developed. Dhania are harvested by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves for continued growth. Multiple harvests can be made from the same plant every 10-days. Gentle handling during harvesting preserves the quality of the leaves.

For seed harvesting, the plant is allowed to grow and flower so that it produces seeds. The seeds mature in 90-120 days after planting. The seeds are harvested when the seed heads turn brown.

Dhania market- Where do I sell my dhania?

This is the bit that worries every farmer. Where do I sell my dhania harvest?

Dhania has a high demand in both the local and international market due to its being a key ingredient in the global dishes. In Kenya, farmers recognizing the consistent demand ,actively engage in cultivation, with local markets, supermarkets, and restaurants being key distribution channels. The global demand for coriander, especially in European and Middle Eastern markets has also increased,providing farmers with lucrative export opportunities.

Also read: Blackberry Farming in Kenya. :Fruit farmers getting the most out of their orchads by Cultivating in Healthy Soils.

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.