6 Simple Steps To Overcoming Stunted Growth In Your Plants

Having plants with stunted growth can be very frustrating for any farmer or gardener. Seeing your plants not thriving as they should be is a bit disheartening. However, understanding the reasons behind stunted growth and implementing appropriate solutions can help your plants flourish once again.

Causes of Stunted Growth.

1.    Poor Soil quality

Poor soil is that which lacks essential nutrients that can hinder plant growth. The only way you can know about the quality of your soil is by carrying out a soil test to determine its pH level and nutrient content. If the soil is less of nutrient, you can improve on the soil fertility by adding organic matter such as compost or manure to encourage continuous growth.

2.    Improper Watering

Both under watering and over watering can stunt your plants growth. A plant should be watered with the right amount of water, that which is able to meet their specific needs. To avoid stunted growth, it is important to consider factors such as soil drainage, plant type, and environmental conditions when developing a watering schedule.

3.    Insufficient Light

Plants require adequate light for photosynthesis, a process by which they produce energy for growth. Insufficient light can result in weak, stunted growth. If potted, you can position your plants in an area that receives maximum artificial lighting, or you can consider supplemental lighting. If planting on a field, choose an open area that receives maximum sunlight.

4.    Pests and Diseases

Pests such as aphids, mites, and diseases like fungal infections can weaken plants and stunt their growth. It is important to regularly inspects your plants for any signs of pests and diseases and take the appropriate management strategies on time.

5.    Temperature Stress

Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can negatively impact plant growth. Providing adequate insulation or shading during extreme weather conditions can help protect your plants. Mulching around the plants can help regulate the soil temperatures as well.

6.    Root bound

When plants outgrow their containers, their roots become crowded leading to stunted growth. Transplanting them into larger pots or dividing them can alleviate this issue.

Understanding the reason behind stunted growth in plants is the first step towards implementing effective solutions. By addressing the reasons, you will have helped your plants overcome stunted growth and thrive once again.

My Oranges Are Splitting Terribly: How Can I overcome Orange Splitting?

 Encountering splitted oranges on your tree is one of the most disappointing things you will come across as you take a walk in your farm. Your mind will get rolling wondering what reason that could be. Worry not! In this article, I will explore a number of possible causes why your oranges could be splitting and suggest ways on how you can stop that. Keep reading!

A photo of Splitted Oranges

Causes of orange splitting.

The main cause of fruit splitting is often attributed to fluctuations in environmental conditions, particularly.

• Inconsistent watering-Fluctuations in watering, particularly irregular deep watering followed by dry periods, can cause oranges to split. When the soil becomes overly dry and then suddenly receives a large amount of water, the fruit may expand too quickly, leading to splitting.

Management: Maintain a regular watering schedule to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the tree also helps retain soil moisture.

• Temperature fluctuations- Rapid changes in temperatures, especially during the ripening period, can stress the fruit and result in splitting. This is particularly common in regions where temperatures vary greatly between day and night.

Managing temperatures to reduce the risk of fruit splitting involves implementing practices that help moderate temperature extremes and minimize stress on the fruit. They include mulching whereby organic mulch is applied around the base of the plant to help regulate soil temperature and moisture. Maintaining consistent and adequate irrigation is also necessary to help regulate and provide moisture to the trees during hot weather.

• Varietal susceptibility – Certain orange varieties are more prone to splitting than others. Varieties with thinner or more delicate skins are generally more susceptible to splitting under adverse conditions. Navel oranges are more associated with splitting though other varieties may split as well.
• Nutritional deficiency- Nutritional deficiency, particularly minerals like boron and calcium can weaken cell walls and affect the fruit structure making the fruit prone to splitting as it expands.

Managing fruit splitting due to nutritional deficiencies involves addressing the underlying nutrient imbalances. This is only made possible by conducting soil tests to determine the nutrient levels and adjusting fertilization accordingly. You can also use foliar sprays that contain the deficient nutrients to provide a quick uptake for the plants, especially during critical growth stages.

• Pests and Diseases – Damage caused by pests or diseases, such as citrus borers or fungal infections, can weaken the fruit’s skin and make it more prone to splitting.

Management: Prune trees to improve air circulation and reduce humidity which can prevent fungal diseases. Apply the ideal insecticides or fungicides as recommended by your farm expert.

Urban Farming: Farming Fresh Produce Out of Our Urban Spaces

You do not have to own a land for you to be a farmer. The most important bit is to have the willingness, passion, and readiness to be one. For those leaving in urban areas, a balcony, a rooftop, public spaces such as parks, sidewalks etc are enough for you to actualize your dream of being a farmer. The practice of growing food and other crops in urban areas such as cities and towns is what we refer to as urban farming.

Urban farming involves a number of techniques that include,

1.    Rooftop gardens

This involves utilizing rooftop spaces on buildings to grow vegetables, herbs, flowers, and even small fruit trees. Rooftop gardens transform unused rooftops into productive green spaces that help in mitigating the urban heat by absorbing it and providing natural insulation for buildings. Setting up of rooftop gardens require careful planning and consideration to ensure the building can support the additional weight of soil, plants, and infrastructure. It is important that a structural engineer assesses the building before setting up your rooftop garden.

2.    Vertical farming

This practice involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often indoors using hydroponic or aeroponic systems. This is a technique that maximizes on the space efficiency and allows for year-round production.

3.    Hydroponics

It involves cultivating plants without soil, instead using nutrient-rich water solutions. Hydroponic systems are best and popular in urban areas due to their space saving nature and ability to be implemented indoors. They can be designed by vertically stacking growing trays or utilizing compact growing structures.

4.    Window farms

In window farming, plants may be grown in soil or hydroponic systems that are installed indoors near windows or other sources of natural light to grow herbs and vegetables. Window farms are very ideal for apartments and small living spaces that have limited outdoor access. Window farms typically consist of stacked or hanging containers that hold plants and growing medium. The containers are often made from recycled materials such as plastic bottles, jars, fabric pockets etc. They are normally arranged vertically to optimize on the space.

5.    Green walls

Vertical structures covered with vegetation, often using hydroponic or soil-based systems. Green walls generally improve air quality, provide insulation, and add aesthetic value to urban environments.

6.    Container gardening

Growing plants in pots, containers, or other vessels instead of planting them directly into the ground. The containers can be placed in balconies, rooftops, and windowsills etc.

What can I grow in my urban farm?

Depending on the available space, sunlight, and climate conditions, urban farmers can experiment with a wide variety of crops that include, leafy greens such as spinach, kale and lettuce, herbs such as basil, thyme, rosemary, chives, parsley etc, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, radishes, carrots, flowers etc.

Why urban farming?

• It gives access to fresh, nutritious food- Urban farming allows individuals to grow their own fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, providing access to nutritious produce without relying solely on grocery stores. It contributes to healthier diets and reduce reliance on processed foods.
• Environmental sustainability- By growing food locally, urban farmers can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and distribution. Additionally, many urban farming practices prioritize sustainability by using organic growing methods, conserving water and promoting biodiversity.
• Green space enhancement- Urban farming brings greenly into urban environments, improving air quality, mitigating the heat island effect. It beautifies neighbourhoods, enhances property values, and creates spaces for relaxation and recreation.
• Food security and resilience-By cultivating local food systems, urban farming contributes to food security by reducing reliance on fragile global supply chains. It empowers communities to take control of their production and build resilience in the face of challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, and economic uncertainty.

Urban farming offers a multitude of benefits for individuals, communities, and the environment. By engaging in urban farming practices, it contributes to healthier, more sustainable and more resilient communities while enjoying the rewards of growing their own food.

Garlic Farming in Kenya.

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

Garlic Onions

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

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

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

Brief process for planting garlic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Persimmon Fruits.

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

Vitamin C

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

Vitamin A

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

Vitamin E

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Moringa Oleifera Farming: Nutrient Power House

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

Moringa Plants.

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

1.    Moringa Leaf Powder

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

2.    Moringa tea

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

3.    Moringa oil

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

4.    Moringa Soap

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

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

Step by Step Process of cultivating Moringa.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Market for Moringa.

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

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

Amaranth(Terere) Farming in Kenya.

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

Terere plant.

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

Sustainable farming practices.

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

Nutritional content of amaranth.

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

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

Economic opportunities.

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

Value added products of amaranth.

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

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