Top 5 High Yielding Banana Varieties in Kenya

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

FHIA17: one of the most productive banana varieties in Kenya

1.    FHIA 17

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

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

2.    Grand Nain

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

3.     Williams

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

4.     Giant Cavendish

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

5.     FHIA 25

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

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

Curly Kale Container Farming

1. Start with disease-free seedlings

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

Professionally Propagated Sukuma Matumbo seedlings at Richfarm Nurseries

2. Plant in the right environment

Soil

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

Sunlight

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

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

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

Spacing

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

3. Irrigation

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

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

4. Applying Fertilizer

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

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

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

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

5. Weed Control

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

6. Pest and Disease Management

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

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

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

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

7. Pruning and Harvesting

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

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

Start by harvesting the lower leaves

Bonus point for curly kale farming in Kenya

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

Plum Farming in Kenya

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

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

Popular plum varieties grown in Kenya.

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

Ideal Climate and Soil requirements for the growth of plums

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

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

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

Propagation of plums

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

Ideal spacing for plum trees

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

Planting holes size

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

Planting time

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

Management practices in plum farming

Irrigation

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

Pruning

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

Common plum pests and diseases

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

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

Maturity period, Harvesting and Post-harvest handling of plums

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

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

Market potential for plums

Local market

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

Export market

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

Challenges in plum fruit farming

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How should I prepare the soil for beetroot farming?

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

Which varieties of beetroot are well suited for Kenyan conditions?

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

Which is the best time to plant beetroots in Kenya?

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

What is the recommended spacing for planting beetroots in Kenya?

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

How many days does it take to harvest beetroots?

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

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

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

How can I market my beetroot produce in Kenya?

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

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

Lemon Farming in Kenya: Guidelines For Planting and Market Opportunities

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

Rough Lemon

Climate and soil requirements for lemon cultivation

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

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

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

Step by step guidelines for planting lemons.

1.      Site Selection/ Soil preparation

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

2.      Choose the right varieties

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

v Eureka Lemon

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

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

v Lisbon Lemon

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

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

v Meyer Lemon

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

v Rough Lemon

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

Where do I get lemon seedlings from?

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

3.      Planting

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

4.      Watering

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

5.      Pruning

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

6.      Ongoing care

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

·       Adjust water based on weather conditions.

·       Provide additional support during heavy fruit-bearing seasons.

Common pests and diseases that attack lemon plants

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Harvesting

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

Market opportunities

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

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

Related links:Lemon Farming in Wajir.

Ginger Farming in Kenya: All You Need To Follow When Setting Up Your Ginger Plantation.

 The demand for ginger is on the rise due to its diverse uses in food, beverages, and medicines. In Kenya, ginger is commonly used in households and by food processing industries, with countries like India, China, and the Middle East being major importers. The economic viability of ginger farming is high, with good returns on investment due to the premium prices it fetches in the market.

Ginger plantation.

Climate and soil requirements for garlic farming

Ginger thrives in warm and humid tropical climates. The ideal temperature range for ginger cultivation being between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. They require moderate rainfall of 1500-2000mm annually, well distributed throughout the growing season. Areas with excessive rainfall may require proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Soil

Ginger grows best in well-drained loamy or sandy loam soils that are rich in organic matter. The pH should slightly be acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. Good soil aeration is crucial as waterlogged conditions can lead to rhizome rot.

Planting materials

Ginger is planted from small sections of the rhizomes known as sets. The rhizomes should be cut in to pieces, each with at least one or two healthy buds. The cut pieces are allowed to cure in a cool dry place before planting. It is advisable to get your rhizomes from a reliable/certified source so as to ensure they are healthy and diseases free.

Planting process

When it comes to planting ginger, timing is very important. Planting is typically done at the onset of the rainy season to ensure adequate moisture. In Kenya, this is usually between March and April or around November. The rhizomes are put in rows with a spacing of 20-30cm between the rows. They should be at a depth of about 5-8cm with the bud facing upwards.

Crop management

Ginger requires consistent moisture throughout its growth period. This means supplemental irrigation may be necessary during the dry conditions so as to maintain adequate soil moisture levels.

Weeding

Regular weeding is essential to prevent competition for nutrients and water. You can mulch with organic materials like straw or leaves to help suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and improve soil fertility.

Pest and disease management

·      Pests

Nematodes- These microscopic worms damage ginger roots, often leading to stunted growth. In control of them, you can use nematicides and also practice crop rotation to manage nematode infestations.

Aphids and Thrips: You can control these using organic insecticides.

·      Diseases

Rhizome Rot- Rhizome rot disease is caused by fungi. To manage this disease, you have to ensure there is proper drainage in your farm.

Leaf Spot: This another fungal infection that causes leaf spots and can be controlled using fungicides while practising proper field hygiene.

Harvest and post harvest management.

Ginger is ready for harvest 8-10 months after planting when the leaves start to turn yellow and dry. When harvesting, carefully lift the rhizomes from the soil using a spade or fort to avoid damage. Once you have harvested your ginger, wash the rhizomes to remove soil and debris then you allow them to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry place to prevent them from spoiling.

Value addition

Value addition in ginger farming is basically enhancing the economic value of ginger through various forms of processing and packaging. This not only increases the profitability of ginger farming but also opens up new market opportunities both locally and internationally. Some of the value-added products of ginger are dried ginger, ginger powder, ginger oil, ginger paste, ginger tea, pickled ginger, ginger extracts and concentrates.

Value addition is important as it increases profitability, it brings about market diversification, extends the shelf life, it creates jobs and enhances market access.

Black Nightshade Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide

 Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is a popular leafy vegetable in Kenya, commonly known as “managu” or “osuga”. It is a highly nutritious leafy vegetable that has gained popularity due to its health benefits and relatively easy cultivation. Managu is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, Iron and Calcium.

Black Nightshade(Managu)

Climate and soil requirements for managu farming.

Black nightshade thrives in a warm climate with moderate rainfall, ideally between 600mm to 1200mm annually. The crop grows well in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It prefers well-drained loamy soils rich in organic matter, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5

How profitable is managu farming in Kenya?

This is a question that is likely to bother any farmer or any person looking forward to venture into managu farming for commercial purposes. Managu farming in Kenya is proving to be a profitable venture for many farmers, largely due to the high demand for this nutritious leafy vegetable. Market demand for managu remains robust, particularly in urban areas like Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu and Eldoret. Farmers can sell their produce directly to wholesale buyers or at local markets, with prices per kilo ranging from ksh30 to ksh50 depending on the season and quality. The cost of managu production is relatively low with the basic requirements being seeds, fertilizers and labour. Managu is resilient and requires minimal maintenance compared to other crops, making it cost-effective to cultivate. In overall, managu farming offers a significant return on investment due to its low input cost and high market demand. With proper management and market research, farmers can achieve substantial profitability from this crop.

 Step by step process for planting managu

Planting black nightshade in Kenya involves several steps, from soil preparation to harvesting.

                        i.         Soil preparation

This step involves two major processes, one being soil testing and the other land preparation. Soil testing involves conducting a test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Managu thrives in soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.6

Once the soil tests of the area are positive or they have been adjusted accordingly, you begin to plough and harrow the soil to create a fine tilth. You can apply well-composted manure about two weeks before planting.

                      ii.         Seed selection and nursery Preparation

In seed selection, use certified seeds to ensure diseases-free plants. In the case where you want to purchase ready to plant seedlings, make sure to get them from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. You can contact them on 0724698357/0723213602 to place your order.

For those who choose to propagate the seeds themselves, you can use seeding trays, or you can germinate them from a nursery bed. When doing a nursery bed preparation, you prepare a seedbed by digging, levelling, and mixing the soil with well-rotted compost. Make shallow drills 10-20cm apart and sow the seeds, then cover them lightly with soil. Once they have germinated, water regularly and thin the seedlings after about 4-7 days. The seedlings are ready for transplanting when they reach a height of about 10-15cm and when their stems look strong enough.

                     iii.         Transplanting

When transplanting, use a spacing of 30cm by 10cm. Once you have transplanted, ensure adequate irrigation until the seedlings are well established.

                     iv.         Irrigation

Drip irrigation is ideal for efficient water use. Overhead irrigation can also be used but it may increase fungal diseases risk. Regular watering should be practised to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry periods to avoid waterlogging which can lead to root rot.

                       v.         Harvesting

Harvesting of managu leaves begins about 6-8weeks after planting. Tender leaves are picked by hand. It is important to ensure a consistent harvest so as to encourage new growth and also prolong the productive period.

Common pests and diseases that affect managu plants

Aphids- They cause curling, yellowing and distortion of leaves. They also give a symptom of sticky honeydew on leaves.

Spider mites- Common symptoms are stippling and yellowing of leaves, webbing on the underside of leaves.

Caterpillars- They cause holes in the leaves and defoliation.

White flies- It causes yellowing of leaves and the presence of sooty mold that is often caused by honeydew secretion.

Leaf miners- Common symptoms are irregular, winding trails on leaves.

Powdery mildew- Common symptoms are white powdery spots on leaves, leading to leaf curling and distortion.

Leaf spot- It causes brown, black or yellow spots on leaves leading to leaf drop.

Also Read:Amaranth( Terere) Farming in Kenya