Tips For Profitable Banana Passion Fruit Farming in Kenya

Banana passion fruit is a delicious fruit that has a sweet, acidic, and tropical taste with subtle peach and nectarine-like nuances. It smells faintly of oranges and looks like a small banana with yellow skin and orange pulp. The pulp contains many black seeds that are edible but may have a bitter flavor if crunched.

Banana Passion Fruits

They produce large pink tube-like flowers at all times of the year. These develop into oval fruit that turn yellow to orange yellow when they're ripe. The fruit can be eaten, and the seeds are spread by animals, birds and people.

Banana passion fruit farming in Kenya presents a unique opportunity for farmers looking to tap into a growing market. With increasing demand for exotic fruits, this crop is gaining popularity.

Banana passion fruit, known for its delicious flavor and health benefits, can be a high-value addition to your agricultural portfolio.

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Nutritional Benefits

• Banana Passion Fruit has a lot of benefits for health such us:
• Helps to reduce the stress.
• Reduce the blood pressure.
• It has antispasmodic and diuretic properties.
• Helps to reduce blood pressure.
• Stimulates collagen production.
• Strengthens the immune system.
• It is a natural antioxidant.
• Neutralizes free radicals.
• Facilitates the healing process.
• It’s ideal to improve digestion.
• Helps to reduce anxiety.
• Decreases fever.
• Reduces headaches.
• Protects the nervous system.
• Improves vision health.
• Supports bone health.
• Facilitates the absorption of nutrients.
• Facilitates the regeneration capacity of organs, tissues and cells.
• It’s used to improve the hydration of the skin, and can also works as an exfoliant.

Ideal Climatic Conditions

Banana passion fruit thrives in warm, tropical climates. The ideal temperature ranges between 20°C to 30°C. Good rainfall, around 800mm to 1,200mm per year, is essential for growth. Regions like Central, Rift Valley, and parts of Western Kenya are particularly suitable due to their favorable weather.

Soil Preparation

Well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter offer the best growing conditions. Before planting, test the soil pH, which should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility. Regular fertilization with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium will support healthy growth.

Select a location with good sunlight exposure and protection against strong winds. Avoid areas prone to flooding. Accessibility to water sources is also crucial for irrigation during dry spells.

Planting and Propagation

Go for disease-resistant varieties that are known for high yields. Popular choices include ‘Sweet Gold’, known for its sweetness, and ‘Purple Passion’, which has a high market demand due to its vibrant color.

Banana Passion Fruits

Propagation Methods

You can propagate banana passion fruit using seeds or cuttings. Seeds often take longer to germinate and grow, while cuttings produce faster results. For cuttings, choose healthy branches from mature plants.

Maintain a planting distance of about 3 meters between plants. This spacing allows for adequate airflow and sunlight, reducing competition for nutrients. A density of 160 to 300 plants per acre is ideal for maximizing yields.

The flowers of passion fruit are self-fertile due to the flower morphology, being structured so that the anthers are placed below the stigmas.

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Fertilization

Use recommended fertilizer or a citrus food or a chicken manure fertilizer. Water plants well before adding fertilizer then spread it around the base of the stem and along the area where the roots are growing. After feeding in, spread organic mulch such as compost or aged cow manure 2 to 3cm deep.

Caring for Banana Passion Fruit Trees

Regular applications of liquid seaweed and liquid fertilizer will improve growth, flowering and fruiting. Ensure your plant is adequately watered during flowering and fruit development. If it is allowed to become dry while fruit is forming, it will often drop the fruit.

Overwatering leads to yellow leaves with a sad, wilted look. Underwatering will give you crispy edges. To hit the sweet spot, check the soil before you water; it should be moist but not soggy

Pest and Diseases

Watch for pests like aphids, fruit flies, and spider mites. These pests suck the life out of leaves, leaving them pale and mottled.

A Ripe Banana Passion Fruit

Management

For a green approach, introduce ladybugs or lacewings to your garden; they're natural predators. If you're going for the nuclear option, insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be effective. Just be sure to hit those sneaky pests where they hide under the leaves. Remember regular monitoring helps catch infestations early.

Diseases

Common diseases include root rot and Fusarium wilt. Rotate crops and maintain clean farming practices to minimize risks. Use certified seeds and healthy cuttings to prevent disease introduction.

Management

Utilize Integrated Pest Management techniques for sustainable farming. Encourage beneficial insects, use organic pesticides and apply traps to control pest populations naturally.

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Harvesting

Harvest banana passion fruit when the fruits turn from green to yellow or purple, depending on the variety. Check for firmness; ripe fruits are slightly soft. Use gentle techniques to avoid bruising the fruit. Harvest in dry weather to prevent spoilage. Store harvested fruits in cool, ventilated areas to extend shelf life.

Financial Aspects and Business Planning

Startup costs include seedlings, land preparation, irrigation, and fertilizers. Depending on the scale, costs can range from KSh.25,000 to KSh.50,000 per acre.

Profitability

With proper management, yields can reach 5 to 11 tons per acre annually. At market prices ranging from KSh.50 to KSh.100 per kg, profits can be substantial with good sales strategies.

Banana passion fruit farming offers exciting opportunities for profit in Kenya. Understanding the climate and soil requirements, effective planting techniques, and pest management is vital for success. The market is poised for growth, and adopting sustainable practices can ensure long-term profitability.

As demand for exotic fruits increases, now is the ideal time to invest in banana passion fruit farming. With careful planning and execution, farmers can reap significant rewards. Start exploring this lucrative venture today.

Call or WhatsApp 0724698357/0723213602 for our propagated Banana Passion Fruit Seedlings.

• Cost per seedling: ksh. 100
• Seedlings per acre: 160-300
• Spacing: 3m by 3m
• Fruit price: Ksh. 50-100 per kg
• Common pests: aphids, fruit flies, and spider mites
• Common diseases: Root rot, Fusarium Wilt
• Lifespan: 15-20 years

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many banana passion fruit trees per acre in Kenya?
• How long does banana passion fruit take to mature in Kenya?
• How much is banana passion fruit per kg in Kenya?
• How long does it take to grow banana passionfruit? 
• What are the ideal climatic conditions for banana passion farming in Kenya?
• What are common pests and diseases affecting banana passion fruit farming?
• What are the nutritional benefits of banana passion fruit?

Cabbage Farming: Grow to Sell

Cabbage is a member of the Brassicaceae (Cruciferae) family which includes crops such as Kale, Cauliflower, Broccoli and Radish.

Cabbage Farming Field

There are three main types: Green, Red and Savoy. One of the most widely grown, popular and nutritious vegetables in Kenya mainly for the domestic market grown by both small and medium scale farmers. It contains Calcium, Iron, Vitamin A, C & E, Minerals, Riboflavin, Nicotinamine and Ascorbic Acid.

Cabbage has cleansing effect of stomach and intestinal tract if consumed raw without salt due to high sulfur and chlorine content.

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Varieties Grown in Kenya

The following are the common varieties grown in Kenya:

1. Gloria F1

This is a medium-late maturing variety ready for harvesting 90 days after transplanting. It has solid blue green color and thick waxy layer. It is not prone to splitting and keeps well after harvesting. It is tolerant to Black Rot and resistant to Fusarium yellows.

A plant spacing of 60 cm by 60 cm is appropriate and has a maturity of 90 days after transplanting (medium-late maturing). Requires a plant population of 11,111 per acre. They have an average head weight 3 - 5 kg. Yields are about 30,000-50,000kg per acre.

2. Copenhagen

 It requires a cool or warm climate. A plant spacing of 60 cm by 45 cm. A plant population of 14,800 per acre is recommended. It has a maturity 65 - 70 days after transplanting (early maturing). It has a small to medium round shape with uniform size weighing 2 - 2.5 kg. Yields are about 20,000-30,000kg per acre.

3. Blue Dynasty F1

It has a good tolerance to Black Rot, Cabbage Ring Spot, Diamond Back Moth (DBM) & Fusarium Yellows. It can do well in warm areas.

Requires a plant spacing of 60 cm by 60 cm and the plant population is 11,111 heads per an acre. It has a maturity of 80 - 85 days after transplanting (medium-late maturing). It has a round compact shape, weighing 4 - 5 kg. Yields about 45,000 - 68,000kg per acre.

4.  Baraka F1

It is a high yielding bluish green round heads weighing 4 - 6 kg with a maturity of 75 days  and has a good field holding capacity. It has high tolerance to Black Rot, Ring Spot and Cabbage Yellows. Yields about 40,000 -50,000kg per acre.

5. Riana F1

Requires a plant Spacing: 60 cm by 60 cm and it has both heat and cold tolerance and has a blue green, white internal color. It is resistant to splitting when irrigated or rain fed and has a maturity of 90-100 days after transplanting. It has a round and compact head, weighing around 1.5-2.5 kg. It is tolerant to Black Rot and Tip Burn and yields about 15,000-30,000kg per acre.

6. Amigo F1

It is tolerant to Black Rot and Diamond Back Moth and has green and semi round heads weighing around 4-6 kg. It requires warm or cool areas. It has a maturity of 90-100 days and yields 45,000-68,000kg per acre.

Other varieties grown in Kenya are Super Master F1, Oxylus, Star 3308 F1, Santa F1, Rotan F1, Field Winner F1, Globe Master Hybrid F1, Queen F1, Fanaka F1, Tristar , Prize Drumhead, Glory of Enkhuizen, Golden Acre, Sugar Loaf, Fortuna, K-Y Cross, Early Market F1.

Other Cabbage Types

1. Red Type

Red Cabbage is just another form within same species and has much in common with Green Cabbage. It has twice as much Vitamin C as Green Cabbage. The red varieties grown in Kenya are Mammoth Red Rock, Red Acre, Red Dynasty, Ruby Ball among others.

2. Savoy Type

Savoy Cabbage has deeply crinkled and ruffled textured leaves. It is milder and tastier than Red and Green Cabbages and has beta-carotene

Optimal Ecological Requirements

Cabbage can be grown in altitudes ranging from 700 - 2,200 m above sea level. At low altitude the crop should be grown during the cool months of the year. Cabbage has a high water requirement and at least 500 mm of rainfall well distributed throughout the growing period is required. Cabbage performs better under cool temperatures and the optimum temperature range for production is 16 - 20 degrees Celsius, above 25 degrees Celsius will hamper head formation. Cabbage requires well drained sandy or silty loams with high organic matter content and high water holding capacity. The optimal soil pH range is 6.0 – 6.5.

Compost

Cabbage, like most leafy vegetables, is a heavy feeder and does well in soils with high organic content. Based on the results of the soil analysis, prepare adequate compost for application. During compost making, the organic matter needs to be covered to prevent leaching of nutrients. The recommended rate of application ranges from 5-8 tons per acre. The manure or compost should be broadcasted then worked into the soil preferably using a hoe and applied 1-2 weeks before transplanting.

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Raising Seedlings

Use certified seed with special attributes such as tolerance or resistance to pest and diseases and high yielding. The seed rate is about 100-120grams per acre depending on variety.

Nursery Site Selection

Avoid setting up the nursery in fields previously having a Cabbage crop.

Nursery Establishment

Prepare a seedbed of 1m width and of a convenient length. Make drills on the seedbed at a spacing of 10-20 cm apart and then thinly sow the seeds in the drills and cover lightly with soil.

Matured Cabbage

Management of Nursery

Water thoroughly after transplanting and regularly however, avoid over-watering which can lead to Damping-off disease. Start hardening the seedlings 1-2 weeks before transplanting by reducing the frequency of watering and the shade over the nursery. Mulching is important to provide favorable environment for seedlings.

Transplanting

Seedlings are transplanted 30 days after seed germination. It is recommended that transplanting should be done either early in the morning or late in the evening. The recommended spacing is 60 cm between rows and 45- 60 cm between plants depending on the variety and plant population of 11,000 – 14,800 plants per acre

Fertilizer Application

Apply 2-3 handfuls of manure per planting hole and 2 half liter water bottle tops (10 g) of DAP per planting hole, that is, 80 kg per acre. DAP should not be applied on acid soils, use DSP, TSP or NPK and only thoroughly decomposed manure should be used to avoid possible introduction of cutworms in the field. The DAP fertilizer should be mixed thoroughly with the soil to avoid possible scorching of the seedlings.

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Water Requirement

The optimal amount of rainfall required for Cabbage during the growing period is 500mm. Regular watering ensures uniform head formation and prevents head splitting and increases the size of the head. Watering should be reduced as crop matures as excessive watering increases water logging hence deficiencies of Magnesium and Phosphorus. Irrigation can be overhead, drip or furrow.

Top Dressing

The crop should be top dressed with CAN fertilizer in 2 splits to avoid nutrient loss through leaching as well as excessive soil salinity. The first split is applied at a rate of 10 g per plant (100 kg/acre) 2 - 3 weeks after transplanting; the second split is applied at a rate of 20 g per plant (200 kg/acre) at the onset of head formation. Placement method is preferred over broadcasting as it is more effective and economical

Pests and Diseases

Pests

Pest damage causes a reduction in quality and quantity of produce. The following are the major pests of Cabbage in Kenya; Diamond Back Moth (DBM), Cabbage Sawfly, Aphids, Slugs and Cutworms.

Management

Intercropping with other crops which act as repellants or trap crops. Use of recommended pesticides. Field hygiene through removal and destruction of crop residue, and also use of natural enemies. Cultural control by drowning the slugs in water (bury tins at ground level and fill with water) and add yeast to attract the slugs or use slug pellets. Hand removal of pests easily found near the damaged plant, especially at the beginning of infestation. Early weeding destroys sites for egg laying. Ploughing also exposes the pest to its predators and desiccation.

Diseases

Disease infection leads to reduction in quality and quantity of produce. The following are the major diseases of Cabbage in Kenya: Damping-off, Bacterial Black Rot, Black Leg, Ring Spot, Alternaria Leaf Spot, Bacterial Soft Rot and Club Root.

Management

Avoid dense sowing which cause damp conditions. Avoid excessive watering and fertilization, particularly with nitrates. Avoid fields with a history of the disease. Practice crop rotation. Use certified disease-free seed. Solarization of seedbed where feasible and use of appropriate fungicide. Use of resistant or tolerant varieties, too. Note that diseased plant parts should not be fed to animals if manure is to be used on fields.

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Harvesting

Maturity period is around 2.5 - 4 months after transplanting depending on the variety and location. Maturity is when the head becomes firm. Harvest the heads before they pass the prime stage to avoid cracking or splitting. Cut heads at the base and leave the outer leaves to protect the head and keeping it fresh. Avoid bruising the head as it encourages rotting. Yields are about 15-68 tons per acre depending on the variety and crop husbandry. Varieties with firm solid heads have good storability.

Cabbage Harvest

Post-Harvest Handling

They should be packed in clean well ventilated containers or crates and transported in covered vehicles. Damaged and diseased heads are then discarded. Cabbages are graded depending on the head size: small (1-2 kg), medium (3-4 kg), large (over 5 kg). 

• Cost per seedling Ksh. 2.5/- (Victoria F1)
• Seedlings per acre: 11, 000-14, 800 per acre
• Spacing: 60cm by 40cm but dependent on variety
• Market price: controlled by market supply and demand
• Yield: 15-68 tons per acre depending on variety
• Common pests: Diamond Back Moth (DBM), Cabbage Sawfly, Aphids, Slugs and Cutworms.
• Common diseases: Damping-off, Bacterial Black Rot, Black Leg, Ring Spot, Alternaria Leaf Spot, Bacterial Soft Rot and Club Root
• Lifespan: Biennial

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does cabbage take to grow in Kenya?
• How many cabbages can you get per acre?
• Which varieties of cabbage are grown in Kenya?
• What are the optimal ecological requirements for cabbage farming?
• What is the maturity period of cabbages?
• How is land and seedbed preparation for cabbage farming?
• How are cabbages harvested?

Contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357 or 072321602 for cabbage seedlings.

 

 

 

 

Profitable Short-Term Farming Activities for Youth with Limited Financing

Unlock the potential of farming without a hefty investment. Short-term farming offers young entrepreneurs a path to quick profits while developing valuable skills. This article explores various farming activities that require minimal financial backing yet have high-profit potential.

Edible Flower

The Allure of Profitable Short-Term Farming

Short-term farming attracts young people for several reasons. The promise of quick returns makes it appealing for those with limited resources. These ventures can generate income within weeks or months, allowing you to reinvest and grow your business.

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Why Short-Term Farming Works

Starting small is the secret sauce. Opting for short-term crops or plants generally requires less capital, making it easier to enter the industry. The low startup costs often lead to high-profit margins, especially with popular products. Moreover, many short-term crops can be grown in backyards or on small parcels of land, making them accessible to urban youth.

Resources and Support for Young Farmers in Short-Term Farming

Local agricultural extensions, Technical Community Colleges and online courses offer valuable guidance. Networking groups and local farmers can provide mentorship and support. Grants and microloans designed specifically for young entrepreneurs also open doors to financing.

High-Demand, Fast-Turnaround Crops for Short-Term Farming

They include to mention one or two;

1. Edible Flower Farming

Edible flowers add beauty and flair to any dish, and they can be quite lucrative. These flowers can be grown in small spaces, such as containers or vertical setups. Select varieties like nasturtiums or pansies that have both visual appeal and culinary uses. They bloom quickly, typically within 6-8 weeks.

Connect with local restaurants, florists, and event planners for market. Showcase your product at farmers’ markets or online. Building relationships can lead to consistent sales.

2. Mushroom Cultivation: From Spore to Sale in Weeks

Mushrooms offer another exciting avenue for young entrepreneurs. Oyster and shiitake mushrooms are beginner-friendly and grow quickly. Each variety has its own growing conditions, so choose what suits your space best.

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You can start small with a simple setup using straw or wood chips. Mushroom farming utilizes minimal space and can produce a great yield.

Mushrooms are a developing popular item at local markets. Develop connections with chefs who value fresh, locally grown food. Regular sales can provide steady income.

3. Urban Farming and Vertical Gardening

Urban farming is a practical choice for city dwellers looking to farm. Vertical gardens allow you to farm vertically, saving space and maximizing yield. Use trellises, towers, or wall-mounted planters to grow herbs, vegetables, or flowers.

Edible Flowers

Urban Farming Strategies in Short-Term Farming

Rooftop farms are gaining popularity in urban areas. Collaborating with others can share resources and reduce costs. Explore local delivery options or create a Community to sell directly to consumers.

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Increasing Profit Margins

Not only can you grow food, but you can also create products that enhance profits. Preserve excess produce by drying, freezing, or pickling. This helps you manage surplus and meet market demands for unique products.

Creating Value-Added Products

Transform your harvest into infused oils, sauces, or jams. Offering product variety boosts your market presence while providing more income opportunities.

Vertical Gardens at our Farm

Branding and Marketing Your Products

Establish a brand that reflects quality and local values. Utilize social media and local markets to promote your products. Eye-catching packaging can make a big difference in sales.

Short-term farming can lead to quick profits. Choices like micro-greens, edible flowers, and mushrooms offer low-cost entry points. Take advantage of urban farming techniques to maximize space and output.

Resources and Support

Seek out local resources and mentorship opportunities to guide your journey. Explore funding options designed for young entrepreneurs.

Planning Your Short-Term Farming Business

Plan your business strategy. Consider market trends and customer needs while deciding what to grow. Starting small can ultimately lead to bigger successes.

Farming presents a wealth of opportunities for young people with limited financing. With creativity and the right strategies, you can cultivate a successful farming venture. Take the first step today and plant the seeds for your future!

 Reach out to us for more information and guidance on this and more. WhatsApp or Call 0724698357/0723213602

 

Fig Fruit Farming in Kenya: An Exotic, Drought Resistant Super Fruit

Even though fig fruit farming in Kenya is relatively new, the fruit is one of the oldest known to humans. Fig fruits are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially the Mediterranean. Figs are known for their high nutritional content and health benefits, having higher levels of iron and copper than many other fruits. Figs are high in sugar, low in acid, and provide carbohydrates as well as vitamins A and C. 

Fig Fruits

In Kenya, fig cultivation has not gained widespread acceptance; only a few farmers and home gardeners have started growing them, often with just a handful of trees. Few nurseries, like Richfarm Kenya Nurseries, have been significant in producing fig seedlings and are few nurseries that grow figs.

Growing Conditions for Fig Fruit Farming

Farmers in dry regions should consider planting figs, as they can flourish there. For the best fruit yield, plant fig trees in sunny locations with no nearby trees competing for light. Proper water management, including regular irrigation during the early stages and mulching, is important for tree health. Fig plants can be shaped into either tree or shrub forms, depending on the farmer's preference and what works best in that area.

Also Read:

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Soil Requirements for Fig Tree Planting

Figs are easy to grow and require minimal care, thriving in most parts of the country. They adapt well to different soil types, but good drainage is essential. Avoid poorly drained areas, as they can lead to problems like nematode infestations and stunted growth. Ideally, figs should be planted in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, allowing them to become drought-resistant over time. A soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is preferred.

Soil Preparation for Fig Tree Planting

Figs thrive in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5, but they can tolerate moderately alkaline conditions. Most garden soils have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It's essential to test the soil before planting. If the pH is low, add lime to raise it. Spread the lime evenly across the area where you plan to plant figs, then till it into the soil. Aim to till at least a 6-foot by 6-foot area for each seedling.

Fig trees grow best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, but they can also adapt to different types of soil, including heavy clay, as long as drainage is adequate. If your soil lacks nutrients or is compacted mixing in some organic compost will help. Figs need soil that retains moisture, especially during fruit development, but it shouldn’t stay soaked or muddy.

Fig Fruit Tree

Spacing for Fig Trees

Fig trees in Kenya are best grown with a spacing of 3 m between the plants and 5m between the rows. A wider spacing should be used in areas that are shaded (like valleys or foothills) to ensure that all the trees get as much sunlight as possible. The rows should also be made to take an East-West alignment to prevent shading. With the 3x5m spacing, an acre will accommodate 270 fig trees. 

Transplanting Young Fig Trees

When transplanting container-grown plants do not prune them instead, take them out of the container, loosen their roots, and place them in the planting hole. Fill the hole with soil and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Do not add fertilizer when planting.

Fertilizer Application for Fig Trees

Fig trees thrive in moderately fertile soil with minimal fertilizer. However, if the soil is low in fertility or if there’s strong competition from other plants, fertilizer becomes necessary. While nitrogen is typically the main nutrient needed, some areas may lack other essential nutrients. If your fig tree shows signs of poor growth, it’s a good idea to fertilize it. You can use organic plant foods or inorganic fertilizers like 10-10-10 to nourish your tree.

Irrigation for Fig Trees

The first year is vital for your new fig tree. To achieve the best fruit yields, ensure it receives water regularly during the first three months. The specific watering needs depend largely on the soil type. Generally, providing one to 1.5 inches of water each week, either from rainfall or irrigation is sufficient. If the leaves start yellowing or falling off this could signal either drought or overwatering.

Grass under fig trees may show signs of wilting in hot weather while the surrounding lawn remains healthy. This indicates that the fig tree requires additional water. Figs growing alongside grass may need watering once or more each week during particularly hot and dry spells.

Once the tree is established, it should receive a minimum of one inch of water weekly. After the first year, monitoring can be less intense as the tree will have developed a strong root system. It is important to water consistently, especially during dry periods. Insufficient moisture can lead to premature fruit drop or reduced quality. Maintain a clear area of at least four feet around the fig tree to minimize competition for water from grass and weeds.

Pruning Fig Trees

Fig trees can be left alone to grow naturally or trained to grow as a large shrub or mid-size trees of various shapes. It is not absolutely necessary to prune a fig tree. However, you can prune young fig trees during the first couple of years in a manner that will produce new “fruiting wood,” resulting in heavier yields of fruit the following season. Figs are produced each active growth season on “old wood” (branches produced the previous season), so to produce more fruit in future seasons you need to produce more branches.

Pests and Diseases Affecting Fig Fruit Farming

Pests

Common insect pests affecting fig trees include mealy bugs, three-lined fig borers, and ants. Generally, insecticides are rarely necessary for these pests.

Diseases

Fig trees can face issues with pests and diseases, particularly in sandy soils where root knot nematodes may thrive. These nematodes can weaken the tree, leading to poor growth and minimal fruit production. Signs of a nematode infestation include small knots on the roots. To help prevent this problem, apply a thick layer of mulch and enrich the soil with organic matter during planting.

In rainy seasons or humid environments, fig rust can become a problem. This will show up as a rust colored brown discoloration on the leaf, resulting in early leaf fall.  This disease can be controlled by a 5-5-50 Bordeaux spray (copper sulfate, lime, and water) applied every two to three weeks during the growing season. Although many diseases attack figs, most figs are grown in homeowner settings and do not receive pesticide sprays.

Fig Fruits

Fig Fruit Harvesting

Figs do not continue to ripen after being picked, unlike many other fruits. You know it's time to harvest figs when the necks of the fruit droop and they hang downward. A key rule for picking figs is to minimize handling to prevent bruising. Gently pull or cut the fruit from the stem, leaving part of the stem on the fig to slow spoilage. Place the figs in a shallow dish without stacking them tightly, as they are easily bruised.

Post-Harvest Handling

It is important to eat, use, dry, or freeze figs soon after harvesting. If dried properly, either in the sun or with a dehydrator, figs can be stored in the freezer for up to three years. To freeze fresh figs, wash and dry them, then spread them out on a baking sheet without touching them. Freeze them until solid then transfer them to a container for long-term storage. Fresh figs can be kept in the refrigerator in a single layer on a tray, but they should be eaten within three days.

Health Benefits of Eating Fig Fruits

Figs are nutritious fruits with many scientifically proven health benefits. This is why you should grow and eat fresh figs:

1. Rich in Fiber (Digestive Health)
2. High in Antioxidants (Fights Oxidative Stress)
3. Supports Heart Health
4. Blood Sugar Regulation
5. Bone Health
6. Weight Management
7. Skin Health
8. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties
9. Boosts Immunity

You can read the details of these benefits here: 9 Health Benefits of Eating Fig Fruits: Scientific Explanation

Contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357/ 0723213602 for your seedlings.

Fig tree seedlings for sale at Richfarm Kenya

• Seedlings per acre: 150 to 270 dependent on spacing
• Spacing: 3m by 5m minimum
• Fruit price- 400 - 900 per kg depending on supply and demand
• Yield: Common pests: Mealybugs, Three-lined fig borers, and ants
• Common Diseases: Nematodes, Anthracnose, Alternaria rot, Leaf spot, Canker, Aspergillus
• Lifespan: 30+ years