Stevia Farming In Kenya: How To Grow the Sugar Plant and Never Buy Sugar

Stevia farming in Kenya is still new to many; I wonder why yet Kenyans love sweet things. It is currently practiced mainly in the Rift Valley regions of Kericho, Nakuru, Uasin-Gishu, Narok and Lakipia. A few Meru and Bungoma farmers have also taken up the commercial farming of the sweet leaf. However, very few farmers within the country know about this high potential crop. Actually, Kenya is a pioneer in the commercial farming of stevia in Africa, with only a few farmers taking it up in Rwanda and DRC.

Stevia farming in Kenya

What is stevia and what is so sweet about its farming?

Stevia is a sweetener just like the sugar you put in your tea. But instead of it being processed from sugar cane, it is obtained from the leaves of the Stevia plant.

While it is 100 times sweeter than the ordinary cane sugar, stevia as a sweetener has numerous advantages over cane sugar:

1. It is a natural and free from calories meaning it cannot cause obesity and other calorie related problems.
2. It is more effective than other artificial sweeteners and does not cause tooth decay.
3. Stevia can safely be used as a sugar substitute in food and drinks for diabetes patients.

Sounds really good, right? I am sure you might be wondering how these green leaves can substitute the white sugar we are so used to. Let me teach you how to use it:

How is stevia used?

You can actually grow stevia in your garden and use it right at home and never again buy the unhealthy processed sugar that doctors have always warned us against. This is how to use stevia leaves from your garden to sweeten your tea or any other beverage:

1. Harvest your stevia leaves: Pick the freshest stevia leaves from your garden, being careful to avoid the yellow or brown old leaves. You should also avoid harvesting stems since they are not sweet.
2. Wash and dry the leaves: Using a steady stream of flowing water, thoroughly wash the leaves to remove any dart or soil particles. Dry the leaves by placing them over a paper under a shade for a few minutes or using a towel.
3. Crush the leaves: Put just a few leaves in a motor and use the pestle to crush them to a paste. The idea here is to just break the leaves to release the juices. You can even use your fingers.
4. Add the paste to your tea: Cook your tea as you usually do then once ready, add the crushed stevia leaves and stir. Remember stevia is hundreds of times sweeter than ordinary sugar so you need only a small amount. Generally, you would need only 1 small leaf for a 250ml cup.
5. Add sweetener to your taste: The taste (sugar levels) of your stevia can vary depending on the variety and environmental factors of your garden. You should therefore keep adding the stevia paste until you achieve your desired sweetness.

What are the requirements for growing Stevia?

You might think that something so sweet and precious requires out of this world kind of conditions to grow. It is not so with stevia. Stevia is relatively easy to grow. Here are the conditions necessary for its growth:

Climatic Requirements

Since stevia is leafy, it grows best in areas with high humidity and rainfall (between 1000 and 1500mm of rainfall annually). Long periods of sunlight and warm temperatures also encourage fast regeneration of leaves after harvesting. The best areas would therefore be those experiencing temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. Most places in Kenya meet this condition.

Stevia is sensitive to extreme cold temperature and is easily damaged by frost. Therefore, we should avoid farming it in the highland areas where night temperatures fall below 10°C.

Soil Requirements

Stevia grows best on well-drained sandy loam soils that are rich in organic matter and nitrogen. Slightly acidic soil with a pH of between 5.0 to 7.5 are ideal. Remember to always do your soil test to determine the nutrients that you need to replenish. It is also important to incorporate farmyard manure at planting to increase the organic matter in your soil.

Irrigation Requirements

While stevia is a drought-tolerant plant and would survive long periods of dryness, it is important to ensure that the plants get sufficient soil moisture for optimum production. As such, you will need to irrigate the plants during the dry months of the year.

However, be careful not to over water and cause the sweet plants to suffer root-rot. There isn’t a fixed amount of water needed to irrigate the plants since this is determined by the nature of soils and the weather conditions.

Is your area good for stevia farming? Now let us get into the real action

How to grow Stevia

1. Choose the best location: choose your plot as per the conditions that we described earlier. An open field receiving 10 to 12 hours of sunlight, with well drained soils.
2. Prepare the land: conduct your soil test and correct the soil as per the recommendations. Plough the land to achieve a fine tilth and add sufficient amounts of compost manure to the soil. Make sure that the soil is free of weeds and any other plants that may compete with the stevia for nutrients.
3. Obtain quality stevia seedlings: Stevia seedlings can be obtained from Richfarm Kenya. You can call them on 0724698357. They will deliver to you or you can go pick them from their nurseries in Embu or Naivasha.
4. Transplant the seedlings: The best spacing for stevia is 45cm between rows and 20 to 30 cm from plant to plant. With this, an acre should accommodate approximately 40,000 plants. It is not advisable to intercrop stevia with other crops.
5. Maintaining the stevia farm: Ensure that the farm remains free from weeds and the plants are well irrigated during the dry seasons for maximum productivity.
6. Control pests and diseases: Stevia is relatively pest and disease-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about keeping the knapsack sprayer on your back. However, you should be keen to scout for any threats every day. If you discover any pests or diseases, we recommend that you use organic control methods. This is because it is the leaves that are consumed and we do not want to contaminate our sweetener.

Best spacing for stevia is 30x45cm

Harvesting Stevia

In Kenya, your Stevia plants will be ready to start harvesting in 3 to 4 months after transplanting the seedlings. The freshest leaves are harvested every 3 months after that. Stevia is a perennial plant from which you will keep harvesting for more than 7 years. After this, you may need to plant a new generation for continued high yields.

 

The profitability of Stevia farming in Kenya

An acre of stevia produces 1000kgs-1500kgs per harvest. The farmgate price for the fresh leaves is currently at around Ksh100 per kilo. Hence a farmer is able to make Ksh100,000 per harvest and up to Ksh400,000 per year from every acre.

Stevia market in Kenya

The crop is relatively new in Kenya and local demand is still very low. However, the demand for the natural sweetener is on the rise as more people become more health conscious.

The good thing is that there are companies that contract farmers to produce stevia for export. Some of the companies are PureCircle and Stevia Group East Africa. As production increases, the country will attract investors in processing industries and create a greater market for the plant.

At the moment, you can be the smarter one and invest in a leaf drying and crushing facility to make stevia leaves powder. This would definitely sell well in the local super markets, especially in the high end ones whose clientele now inclines towards healthy eating.

How to Benefit From the Fertilizer Subsidy in Kenya 2023

The fertilizer subsidy in Kenya is a program by the government aimed at helping farmers to access fertiliser at a bit lower price. Under this program, the cost of fertilizer will be reduced from Ksh6,000 per 50kg bag to Ksh3,500.

Subsidized fertilizer by the government of Kenya

In January this year, the government of Kenya kicked off the training of deputy county commissioners, cooperative officers, chiefs, assistant chiefs and other government administrators who will be helping in the distribution of the subsidized fertiliser. The target is to distribute 6 million bags of fertilizer to farmers before the next rainy season of April to June 2023.

The fertilizer subsidy program targets 12 counties where most of the maize and other staple foods are produced. These are Narok, Bungoma, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Migori, Kakamega, Bomet, Kericho, Elgeyo Marakwet and Nandi. It is part of the government’s plans reduce the cost of food production in the country, hence reducing the cost of living.

 

Which fertilisers will be availed

Under this program, farmers will get planting fertilizer such as Microp from Yara Kenya and NPK for top-dressing such as Kynomaizeic NPK. About 2.1 million farmers will benefit from the subsidy program in the first phase.  

Planting and NPK fertilizers to be supplied by GOK under fertilizer subsidy program

How will farmers access the fertilizers

Farmers will be picking the subsidized fertilisers from the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stations nearest to them. NCPB is working together with the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) and other state agencies in the distribution process to ensure that as many farmers as possible get the subsidized fertilisers before the rains start.

For you to access the subsidized fertilisers, you must register under the e-voucher system. This system was rolled by the government to not only ensure traceability and full accountability of the distribution process but also to address the challenges that farmers faced such as travelling long distances and failure to get enough of the inputs.

How to register on the fertilizer subsidy e-voucher system

To access the subsidized fertiliser, a farmer registers on the e-voucher system through their phone by dialling *707#. In the registration process, the farmer provides details of the size of land and the type of fertilizer they need. They then pay via Mpesa or Airtel Money and get issued with an e-voucher which they will use to collect the fertilizer from their nearest depot. The assistant chiefs can help in this process.

 

How much fertilizer is a farmer entitled to?

Farmers are allowed to buy only the amount of fertilizer they need for their size of land. For example, a farmer with 1 acre can only be able to purchase 2 bags of fertilizer.

 

Is the subsidized fertilizer already available?

As of 10th of February 2023, the government subsidized fertilizer was already available  for farmers to collect in the following areas:

• Trans Nzoia county at Local NCPBs
• Kericho Farmers County at the Kipkelion NCPB depot
• Nakuru
• Narok
• Uasin Gishu
• Nandi

While NCPB stations are the assigned depots of the fertilizer, the Council of Governors, Agriculture committee said they will encourage decentralization of the collection points in order to bring them closer to the farmers.   

Capsicum Farming In Kenya: How To Grow Capsicum For Profit And Smile To The Bank

Capsicum is commonly known as pilipili hoho in Kenya and it’s farming is relatively easy given the great climate we enjoy here most of the year. Capsicum farming is also a highly rewarding venture for both small-scale and large-scale farmers since pilipili hoho (also called sweet pepper) is a spice used by almost every household. 

Capsicum farming in Kenya

Ready Market for Capsicum

Due to the popularity of pilipili hoho, the market for this crop is ever ready. You can sell to the local mama mboga kiosk owners, all hotels, schools and hospitals and if you do not mind, the traders who come to buy right from the farm: those however give poor prices.

Where to grow capsicum in Kenya

Capsicum is a versatile crop that grows well in both warm and hot places. You can grow the crop under greenhouse or in the open field. In Kenya, capsicum is commonly grown in central and Eastern parts of the country such as Embu, Kiambu, Kirinyaga and parts of the coast. It can also grow very well in Kajiado, Narok, the entire Ukambani region and in Baringo. 

Capsicum farming in Narok, Kenya

Benefits of capsicum

Capsicum is not only a food additive that spices up the taste of your meals. It is also a nutritious vegetable with numerous benefits to your body. These benefits include:

• A rich source of vitamin A, B16 and C
• Rich in antioxidants which helps your body to maintain good health
• Capsicum has anti-inflammatory properties
• Source of dietary fibre that helps in food digestion.
• Source of potassium which helps your body to regulate blood pressure.

Ecological Requirements for capsicum farming

Climate:

As we have said, capsicum grows well in warm areas. The ideal temperatures are between 15°C and 30°C. The crop does not tolerate frost so in areas where night temperatures fall too low, it is advisable to grow them under greenhouses. The rainfall amounts should be in the range of 800 to 1200mm per annum, supplemented with irrigation during the dry seasons. The trick here is to ensure that the soils have moisture throughout the growth period.

Soil:

Capsicum grows best in fertile well drained soils. They prefer slight acidic soils of pH 5.5 to 6.5. As we have always advised, it is very important to test your soils to determine which nutrients you need to replenish for the best harvest.

Best Capsicum Varieties to Grow in Kenya

There are many different varieties of capsicum grown in Kenya, but some of the best include California Wonder, Green Bell, and Admiral.

California Wonder is a red variety, classic and high in production. It has a large, thick-walled fruits that starts out with a bright green colour and turns red when it is fully ripe.

Green Bell is a green capsicum variety that is sweet and juicy, perfect for salads and cooking. It yields big fruits and is the most common in the Kenyan markets.

Admiral is the signature yellow capsicum variety produced by Syngenta. While it is commonly grown in greenhouses, it can also be grown outdoors but farmers have reported lower yields for outdoor farms compared to greenhouse farming.

Green capsicum matures faster

How to Grow Capsicum: Step-by-step guide

1. Choose an ideal location: Capsicum plants need full sun, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, to grow well. Hence the area should not be under trees or between tall buildings. It is also advisable not to plant on a spot that previously had other plants of the Solanaceae family.
2. Prepare the soil: Capsicum grows best in fertile, well-drained soil. You can improve the soil quality by adding compost or well-rotted manure to the planting area. Also take into consideration the recommendation of your soil test results to make the soils ideal for your crop. Make your farm into raised beds to loosen up the soil and create deeper rooting zones for the plants.
3. Transplant seedlings: Obtain professionally raised seedlings from Richfarm Kenya Nurseries and transplant them onto your prepared plot. The best spacing for capsicum is 60cm between the lines and 45cm from plant to plant. With this, you will have about 15,000 plants per acre.
4. Water regularly: Capsicum plants need consistent moisture to grow. You can check the moisture levels of the soil by holding it firmly in your palm: if it sticks, it is moist. However, don't overwater the plats as they are susceptible to root rot. Water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out a bit between waterings.
5. Fertilize: Capsicum plants require balanced soil nutrients in order to grow fast and give good yields. Incorporating manure during the land preparation gives a huge advantage as it adds most of the needed nutrients. However, you can supplement that with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Your soil test results will advise you much better.
6. Provide support: Capsicum plants can grow quite tall and heavy with fruits, so they may need support, such as a stake or cage, to prevent them from breaking and falling over.
7. Pinch off the tips: Pinching off the tips of the capsicum plants will encourage branching and help the plant to produce more fruits.
8. Harvest when the fruit is fully mature: Capsicum is ready for harvest when the fruit has fully developed its colour and is firm to the touch. Cut the fruit from the plant with a sharp knife, leaving a small piece of stem attached.

Capsicum takes about 2-3 months to fully mature, from the time of transplanting the seedlings. However, the time the plants take to full maturity depends on the climate of your area and the variety. The green varieties mature faster than red and yellow.

Pest and Disease Control

Pests

Capsicum is vulnerable to common pests such as cutworms, red spider mites and aphids. Regular scouting to identify potential pest attacks is necessary. Most of these pests can be handled with common pesticides such as Profile and Pentagon from Greenlife Crop Protection. For those going organic, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.

Diseases

The common diseases that affect capsicum are powdery mildew, damping off and anthracnose. These are all fungal diseases that can be easily controlled using fungicides. I recommend Absolute and Greencop.  You can also reduce the occurrence of diseases if you rotate crops annually, avoid overhead irrigation and practice good sanitation.

Profitability of capsicum farming in Kenya

Capsicum farming in Kenya is profitable and can potentially give you up to Ksh1.2 million per acre in sales and almost 1 million in profit.

The cost of buying seedlings is the highest capital item, which can set you back up to Ksh120,000 for seedlings enough for an acre. The other costs include irrigation, fertilisers, pest and disease control and labour, which vary from place to place. On average, the cost of setting up 1 acre of capsicum from land preparation to harvesting will cost you about Ksh250,000.

An acre of capsicum yields between 25 and 30 tons of fruit and a kilo sells for between Ksh40 and Ksh60 at the farm gate: retailers such as Zucchini and Naivas Supermarkets sell a kilo for Ksh200.

Also read:

1. Seven Crops That Can Make You Rich In 2023

2. Tomato Farming in Kenya: How To Do It Without Burning Your Fingers

What is the Recommended Spacing in Hass Avocado Farming?

At full maturity, that is in about 7 or more years, Hass avocado trees can grow really wide, covering up to 8m if well irrigated and fed. This size of the tree is what advices the spacing, so we would typically say 8x8m is the ideal spacing for Hass avocado. However, as I have mentioned, it takes a long time for the trees to get here – 7 years is indeed a long time bearing in mind that the trees start fruiting in the second year after transplanting.

2 years old avocado trees covering just just about 2m space per tree

What would you be doing with that space between the trees before that time? Well, if you choose to intercrop your avocado trees with shorter term crops, then that would be perfect. But if you are raising a pure stand avocado orchard, then that space is going to be a waste for a long time, exposing the ground to the open sun hence excessive evaporation, not to mention the weed menace. So, shall we make better use of that space by planting more avocado trees? Definitely! But is it wise to do so?

The commercial 3x4m spacing

Commercial farms actually start out their Hass avocado orchards with a spacing of 3m between the plants and 4m from line to line. There is absolutely no harm of doing this. It actually gives you a huge economic benefit.

Look at this; if you start out with the 3x4m spacing, you will be having 330 trees in one acre all bearing fruits from the second year. You enjoy the sales while the trees continue to grow. By the 3^rd year, the trees are forming a nice canopy bringing down the rate of evaporation and weed growth – advantage! In the meantime, the farmer who started out with the 8x8m spacing has only 60 avocado trees in an acre, giving the same number of fruits per tree as the trees in the other farm with 330 trees.  

The trees will compete for soil nutrients and caused reduced production!

Yes, that is true but only if you let it happen. It is paramount that you prepare for this from the very onset. The secret to solving this potential challenge is as obvious as it sounds: replenish the soil nutrients generously. A bucket of goat or cow manure for each tree every 3-4 months will make the trees so happy and productive. You can choose to be a better farmer for them and do regular soil tests to establish whether there is a particular nutrient that is draining faster and find ways of replenishing that specifically.

Hass avocado trees intercropped with beans: this helps to replenish nitrogen in the soil

But how do you control the trees from becoming too bushy and causing fungal diseases and reduced productivity?

The answer first lies in pruning. A Hass avocado farmer who has chosen to go commercial and use the 3x4m spacing must be keen on pruning to ensure that the free flow of air and the penetration of sunlight is not compromised. However, as you already guessed, the trees will soon outgrow the farmers effort of pruning as the branches widen. It is at this point that the second intervention becomes necessary: that is thinning.

What? Cut down fully grown fruiting trees?

Yes, why not? Your aim is to raise the most profitable Hass avocado farm. It would have taken you 3-4 productive years to get to this stage. During this time, each of these trees were giving you optimum yields and the money you pocketed from them has no comparison to the cost of planting and bringing them up. You have made a profit!

So, how’s the thinning done?

There’s no fixed formula for this since as the farmer, you will be able to observe the trees that are becoming overcrowded and less productive. Cut down the non-productive one. However, the cutting down shouldn’t also be done haphazardly. You should do this with an aim of achieving a specific kind of spacing. I would recommend removing the trees in the line so that we achieve a spacing of 6m from tree to tree. That brings us to a 6x4m spacing which can exist till full maturity.

However, if the trees grow rapidly, you may think of removing the centre lines so as to achieve a spacing of 8m between the lines. This brings us to the 6x8m spacing that I would recommend. All this while, never overlook the importance of testing and replenishing the soil nutrients through application of fertilizers and of course, giving the plants sufficient water.

Blueberry farming in Kenya: The New Gold in Agribusiness

Blueberry farming in Kenya is a highly profitable and sustainable venture, most probably owing to the fact that it is a new kind of farming in the country. The fruit is known for its high nutrient content and antioxidant properties, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. The demand for these berries has been higher than supply and it keeps growing as more people become aware of it.

Blueberry farming in Kenya

The blueberry consumers in Kenya have previously been buying imported blueberries from America and Europe. However, thanks to Kakuzi, the first blueberry grower in Kenya, farmers have now discovered that this expensive fruit can grow very well in Kenya and are going into it.  Today, we will teach you how to grow your own blueberries and get a piece of its high profit market.

Ecological Requirements

To grow blueberries successfully, farmers must pay attention to the soil, climatic conditions and water requirements of the crop.

Soil

Blueberries require well-drained acidic soil with a pH of between 4.5 and 5.5. Of course, you have to do your soil test to ensure that all other soil components such as Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium are within adequate levels for healthy plant growth.

Climate

Blueberries require a cool climate with temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius. The crop also requires relatively high amounts of water supply to sustain a healthy and productive growth.

Water and irrigation requirements

Sufficient amounts of water for growing blueberries can be described as that which will maintain the soils as consistently moist but not waterlogged. Remember, the bushes are sensitive to excess water and can develop root rot. Therefore, the crop requires regular watering either through irrigation or rainfall. This is best done through drip irrigation, which applies water directly to the roots, or through overhead sprinklers for the hotter areas to keep the leaves cool and reduce the risk of sunburn.

 

Areas Growing Blueberries in Kenya

In Kenya, the highlands of the Central and Western regions, such as the Aberdare Ranges and Mount Kenya, provide the ideal conditions for blueberry cultivation in open fields.

Currently, blueberries are being grown in a few of these regions, mainly in Murang’a by Kakuzi limited. At the moment, Kakuzi grows the fruits in pots under a greenhouse covering 10 hectares. This is the largest successful blueberry farm in Kenya for now.

 

Health Benefits of Blueberries

Blueberries are a highly nutritious fruit that offer a range of health benefits. They are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants, including anthocyanins.

The king of antioxidants

One of the key benefits of blueberries is their antioxidant content. Antioxidants help to protect the body against damage from free radicals, which can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Blueberries, in particular, have a high concentration of anthocyanins, which are a type of antioxidant that gives the berries their blue color. These anthocyanins have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and improve brain function.

Rich source of vitamins

In addition to their antioxidant content, blueberries are also a good source of vitamin C and vitamin K. Vitamin C is an important nutrient for maintaining a healthy immune system, while vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Blueberries also contain a moderate amount of fiber, which can help to promote digestion and regulate blood sugar levels.

Protects you from Chronic diseases by their anti-inflammatory characteristics

Furthermore, blueberries have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease. These anti-inflammatory effects may be due to the presence of compounds called flavonoids, which are also found in blueberries.

Weight management

Eating blueberries regularly can also aid in weight management, as they are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help to promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake.

Market and Price

The market for blueberries in Kenya is rapidly growing, with increasing demand from both local and international buyers. These fruits are currently available only in select supermarkets. The price of blueberries in Kenya is currently between Ksh1,600-2,000 per kilogram, depending on the quality of fruit.

How to Start Your Own Blueberry Farm

Starting a blueberry farm in Kenya at the moment might require you to dig a little deeper into your pocket, but it is worth it. Here’s what you need:

1. Choose the right variety: Different varieties of blueberries have different soil and climate requirements, so it's important to choose a variety that is well-suited to your growing conditions. Highbush blueberries are the most commonly grown variety and can tolerate a wide range of climates and soil types, while lowbush and rabbiteye blueberries are a bit sensitive and not ideal for starters.
2. Prepare the soil: Blueberries prefer loam or sandy loam soils. The red volcanic soils of central Kenya are ideal since they are also slightly acidic, giving the required pH of 4.5 to 5.5. If your soil is not naturally acidic, you can amend it with animal manure, rabbit Urine or peat moss to lower the pH. Additionally, you should add compost manure matter to the soil to improve its fertility and structure.
3. Ensure recommended spacing: For highbush blueberries, a common spacing is 4-5 feet between plants and 8-10 feet between rows. This allows for proper air circulation and sunlight penetration, which can help to prevent disease and promote fruit production. For lowbush and rabbiteye blueberries, which are smaller in size, a spacing of 2-3 feet between plants and 4-5 feet between rows is recommended.
4. It's also important to note that blueberries can be grown in containers, in this case, the container should be at least 18 inches in diameter and deep enough to accommodate the plants root system. A spacing of 2-3 feet between plants is recommended in this case.
5. Plant at the right location: Blueberries should be planted on a location that gets full sun for at least 8 hours a day. Hence do not plant them under big trees that cast shadows on them.
6. Provide proper irrigation: Blueberries require regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist. This typically means providing 1-1.5 inches of water per week, either through irrigation or rainfall.
7. Prune and maintain the bushes: Blueberries require regular pruning to remove dead or diseased wood, and to promote bush growth. Prune the bushes just before the rains. Additionally, it's important to keep an eye out for pests or diseases that could damage the bushes.
8. Fertilize: Blueberries benefit from regular fertilization, especially with an acidic fertilizer that has a high percentage of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) such as: 5-10-10, 8-8-8 or 10-10-10.

 

Blueberry farming

Note: It is recommended to plant more than one blueberry variety on your farm to help in crosspollination which improves the quality of fruits. When planting multiple varieties of blueberries, it's important to ensure that they are compatible in terms of bloom time and pollination.

 

Profitability of blueberry farming in Kenya:

Blueberry farming in Kenya is highly profitable because of the low supply against a high and growing demand. An acre of land can accommodate approximately 2,000 bushes. The bushes start bearing fruits after 2 years and the yield keeps increasing to peak at 4 years when the plants fully mature.

At maturity, a single blueberry bush can produce 5kgs of fruits per year. That means you can get 10 tons of fruit from one acre. At the current price of Ksh1600, you would be making Ksh16 million in revenue if you sell directly to the end consumers.

Where to buy blueberry seedlings

There aren’t many blueberry seedlings for sale in Kenya. However, you can get high quality seedlings from Richfarm Kenya from time to time. You can reach them on +254724698357 or +254723213602 to order for your seedlings. You might need to wait in line for your seedlings to be produced.

 

 

Dragon Fruit Seedlings For Sale: The Best Prices In Kenya

We are excited that dragon fruit farming is gaining interest in Kenya and our neighbouring East African Countries. This means that this nutritious fruit will soon be available in the supermarkets and fruit vendors that have not been having supply. Our people will finally be able to enjoy the fruit that has for a long time been only for the rich.

People enjoying dragon fruits

Where to buy dragon fruit seedlings in Kenya

To help in this process, our company is giving a limited time price offer for the dragon fruit seedlings you need to grow this fruit by yourself. So, if you have been looking for a new and exciting crop to add to your farm or garden, look no further than dragon fruit!

Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or strawberry pear, is a tropical fruit that is gaining popularity in Kenya and around the world for its unique taste and health benefits. As a grower of high-quality dragon fruit seedlings, we are excited to offer not only our seedlings to farmers and gardeners looking to expand their crop selection, but also a fully guided farming experience.

Health benefits of dragon fruit

The fruit has an inviting bright pink or red skin and it has an amazingly sweet and juicy flesh. Not only is it visually striking, but it is also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great choice for health-conscious consumers.

Health benefits of dragon fruit

The best part of growing this fruit is that the dragon fruit plant is versatile. It is therefore easy to grow, and can be grown in a variety of soils and climates, making it a choice for farmers in many different places in Kenya. Additionally, the fruit is high-yielding, providing farmers with a significant return on investment.

Dragon fruit farming in Naivasha, Kenya

We have actually written for you a detailed step-by-step guide for growing dragon fruits. You can read it here: Dragon Fruit Farming Guide.

But the benefits don't stop there! Dragon fruit is also incredibly versatile in its uses as well. While it is commonly eaten fresh, it can also be used to make jams, jellies, and even wine – you should visit our Naivasha nursery to have a taste of dragon fruit wine. This versatility makes it an appealing choice for a wide range of consumers, from those looking for a healthy snack to those looking for new and unique ingredients for their cooking and baking.

Our dragon fruit seedlings are grown with care and are of the highest quality, ensuring that you get the best start to your dragon fruit crop. We raise them from nature, fruiting plants so that it takes you the shortest time to get your first harvest: just one year, imagine! We also provide tips and practical on-farm guidance on how to properly care for and grow your seedlings, ensuring a successful harvest.

Dragon fruit seedlings for sale at Richfarm Kenya

Don't miss out on this exciting price offer this January to add dragon fruit to your farm or garden. Down from Ksh500 you will now be able to buy the rooted seedlings at only Ksh300. That means you get to save a whole Ksh400,000 for 1-acre seedlings. Call us on 0724698357 / 0723213602 to make your order at least 10 seedlings to enjoy the offer. This is a limited time offer.

You can pick your dragon fruit seedlings from our Naivasha nursery (0723213602), Embu nursery (0798919007) or order through 0724698357 to have them sent to you. 

Pineapple farming in Kenya: How to Make 800K per hectare

Pineapple farming in Kenya has become a lucrative source of income for upcoming agribusiness investors. The country's warm climate and fertile soils make it ideal for growing pineapples, and the demand for the fruit both domestically and internationally has led to an increase in pineapple farming. In this article, we will what you need in order to start a profitable pineapple farming venture. 

Pineapple farming in Kenya, Malindi

Let us start with explaining the best climatic and soil conditions for pineapple production.

Ecological Requirements for pineapple farming

Temperature

Pineapple is a tropical crop that requires a warm and humid climate to grow well. In Kenya, the ideal temperature range for pineapple farming is between 21-32 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall

The crop requires average amount of rainfall, which typically should be between 600 and 1500 mm per year. In areas that experience lower rainfall amounts, the water needs of the plant should be supplemented by irrigation.

Soil

The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. However, they also do well in acidic soils of pH level as low as 4.5. Actually, the acidic condition of the soils can help to reduce the chances of pineapple plants being affected by soilborne diseases.

Areas in Kenya where Pineapple farming is practiced

 

Pineapple farming in Kenya is mainly concentrated in the coastal region, specifically in areas such as Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, and Taita Taveta. In fact, pineapple farming in Malindi is one of the factors that have recently been attracting so many land buyers to this area.

Young Pineapple farm in Malindi

The larger coastal area also has the ideal climate and soil conditions for pineapple farming. However, in recent years, pineapple farming has also spread to other regions such as Meru, Tharaka Nithi, and Embu, where farmers are using irrigation to grow the crop. The most notable farm, of course, is the expansive DelMonte farm in Thika which has opened the eyes of Kenyans to the potential of pineapple farming. They have acres upon acres of pineapple making it look easy to produce this juicy fruit. But how easy is it?

 

How to actually grow juicy pineapples at the farm

Selecting the best variety

Profitable pineapple farming in Kenya starts with selecting the right variety of pineapple. The most common variety grown in the country is the "Smooth Cayenne" which is known for its high yield and sweet taste.

Land preparation

The next step is preparing the land for planting. This involves clearing the land, ploughing, and adding organic matter to the soil. As we always suggest, this is the best time to carry out your soil test to help you know which soil components you need to adjust and to what extent.

Transplanting pineapple seedlings

The pineapple plants are then propagated using slips, which are shoots that are cut from the stem of a mature pineapple plant. You can order these slips from pineapple seedlings propagator, Richfarm Kenya, by calling 0724698357/0723213602.

Spacing

The pineapple slips are best planted on raised beds 60 cm wide, with 2 rows on each side of the bed. The spacing from one bed to the next is put at 100 cm while the spacing from plant to plant on all rows is 30 cm. With this spacing, 1 acre accommodates around 23,000 plants. The plants require regular weeding, fertilization, and irrigation to ensure optimal growth and high yield of big quality fruits.

Pests and diseases affecting pineapples

Pineapples are relatively hardy plants, so pests and diseases are not quite a threat. However, there are some common pests that affect pineapples such as scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to yellow and wilt, and can also attract ants. To control these pests, you can use a solution of water and dish soap, or you can use an insecticidal soap.

Another common pest that affects pineapples is the pineapple weevil, which can cause the fruit to rot and the leaves to wilt. To control this pest, you can use a pesticide specifically designed to target weevils.

Diseases that can affect pineapples include leaf spot, fruit rot, and mosaic virus. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus and results in brown or black spots on the leaves. To control this disease, you can use a fungicide specifically designed to target leaf spot.

Fruit rot can be caused by a number of factors, including poor drainage and high humidity. To control this disease, it's important to keep the area around the pineapple plant clean and dry, and to avoid overcrowding. Mosaic virus is caused by a virus and results in mottled or discoloured leaves. There is no cure for mosaic virus, so the best way to control it is to remove and destroy infected plants.

It is always recommendable to use organic methods as much as possible to prevent and control pests and diseases. Also, monitoring the plant regularly and keeping the surrounding area clean and free of debris can help prevent pest and disease problems.

 

Maturity and Harvesting

 

Pineapple plants take approximately 18 to 24 months to mature and are ready for harvest. The maturity of a pineapple can be determined by the colour of the fruit, which should be a uniform golden-yellow. Additionally, the leaves on the crown of the pineapple should be a deep green colour and the base of the fruit should be firm to the touch.

The best time to harvest a pineapple is when the fruit is fully ripe and the leaves at the base of the fruit can be easily pulled out. This indicates that the pineapple has reached peak sweetness and flavour. Harvesting is done by cutting off the fruit from the stem using a sharp knife. Ensure to leave a small portion of the crown attached to the fruit.

The pineapple plants will typically fruit only once, after which they die off. However, you can use the slips, suckers or crowns that are produced by the mother plant before it dies, to raise new plants. These new plants will be genetically identical to the mother plant and will fruit in the same way.

 

Why pineapple farming in Kenya has become very lucrative

 

The demand for pineapples in Kenya is high, both domestically and internationally. The main domestic market for pineapples is in urban areas, where the fruit is consumed fresh or processed into juice, jams, and canned pineapples. Kenya also exports fresh pineapples to countries such as the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany. However, the pineapple processing industry seems to give the best prospects even for those looking at capturing the export market.

 

Profitability of Pineapple farming in Kenya

 

Pineapple farming in Kenya is a profitable venture, with returns that are higher than those of other crops such as maize and beans. The cost of planting and maintaining a hectare of pineapple is around KES 500,000-800,000. The yield per hectare is around 60-80 tonnes, with a selling price of KES 15-20 per kilogram. This translates to a gross income of KES 900,000-1,600,000 per hectare, with a profit margin of KES 400,000-800,000 per hectare.

I wish to write all you need to know in this one article but I know that might not be possible all at once. However, we are available on call to answer all your questions. Do not hesitate to call us on 0724698257 or 0723213602 and ask any questions you might be having. We will be glad to use your feedback to improve this article.