Okra Farming in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide

Okra is an important vegetable crop known for its nutritional and economic benefits. This adaptable plant can be used in many ways, such as in soups, stews, pickled snacks, or even smoothies. In Kenya, the popularity of okra farming has increased in recent years. Here's a  comprehensive look at okra farming in the country.

An Okra Harvest

Okra Varieties in Kenya

Kenya grows various types of okra, including:

1. Clemson Spineless is among the most favored varieties. It yields well and produces tender, spineless pods that measure around 4-5 inches long.

2. Burgundy features deep burgundy pods of similar size and is valued for its attractive appearance and great taste.

3. Lee gives slender, tender pods about 5-6 inches long and is easy for home gardeners to cultivate, offering a good harvest.

4. Louisiana Green Velvet produces dark green pods measuring 5-6 inches long. It is known for its smooth texture and rich flavor.

5. Emerald showcases bright green pods that grow 6-7 inches long and is recognized for its high yield and excellent taste.

These varieties highlight Kenya's diverse okra cultivation, with other types possibly thriving in different regions.

Calina IPB9 Papaya Farming in Kenya: Why This Variety is Superior

Climatic Conditions for Okra Cultivation

Okra thrives in warm climates, especially in tropical and subtropical areas with extended growing seasons. The ideal conditions for growing okra in Kenya include warmth, ample sunshine, and well-drained soil. Recommended growing zones are:

Coastal region: This area is warm and humid, with temperatures between 25-32°C year-round, ideal for okra. It gets plenty of rainfall, which supports okra growth.

Eastern region: Characterized as semi-arid, this region experiences temperatures ranging from 25-35°C and low to moderate rainfall. With proper irrigation, okra can flourish here, as the sandy soil is beneficial for its cultivation.

Western region: This tropical climate has temperatures from 20-30°C and moderate rainfall, favorable for growing okra. The fertile soil also enhances its growth.

Rift Valley region: With a warm climate and temperatures between 20-30°C, this region offers moderate rainfall and fertile soil that suit okra cultivation.

Neofresh Pawpaw Farm Is a Mind-blowing Inspiration

Climatic Conditions for Okra Farming

Okra needs temperatures between 25-32°C for optimal growth and can handle high heat. In Kenya, it requires at least 500mm of rainfall yearly. The best soil type is well-drained loam with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Okra does not do well in waterlogged or heavy clay soils.

To successfully grow okra in Kenya, certain climate conditions are essential:

1. Temperature

A minimum of 25°C is necessary for growth, with the ideal range being 25°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 15°C can harm the plants, and frost may kill them.

2. Rainfall

Adequate rain is vital, requiring at least 500mm annually. In areas with little rainfall, irrigation is needed, but too much rain can lead to water logging and diseases.

3. Humidity

High humidity levels are preferred, with a range of 60% to 80%. Low humidity can hinder the crop's growth.

4. Soil

Well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal. The soil should contain organic matter and be fertile. It's wise to apply a balanced fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium before planting.

5. Sunlight

Okra requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. The crop should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

6. Wind

Okra plants are sensitive to wind, and strong winds can damage the plants. Therefore, it is advisable to plant okra in a location that is sheltered from strong winds.

Flowering Okra Plant

Seed Selection

Choosing high-quality seeds is essential to ensure they are disease and pest-free. In Kenya, you can find okra seeds at agricultural stores and seed companies. These seeds are typically planted directly in the field. When planting, maintain a distance of 60cm between rows and 30cm between each plant.

The first step to growing okra is selecting the right seeds. Different okra varieties are available, so it's important to pick ones that fit the local growing conditions in Kenya. Some recommended varieties include Clemson Spineless, Emerald, Jambalaya, and Star of David.

Planting

Select the right spot for planting okra. It thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Ensure the area gets at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day.  Prepare the soil by clearing away weeds, stones, and debris. Loosen the soil to about 30 cm deep and mix in organic matter like compost or aged manure to boost fertility and moisture retention.

How To Produce Fruits And Vegetables For Export Market For Extra Profit

When planting seeds, place them about 2.5 cm deep and space them 10 to 15 cm apart in rows that are at least 60 cm apart. Cover the seeds with soil and water them well. Keep the soil moist, especially in the first few weeks, to support germination.

After the seeds sprout, thin them out, keeping only the strongest seedlings. Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells. About two weeks after planting, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer, then repeat every 3 to 4 weeks until the plants begin to flower.

Fertilizer Application

To start a fertilizer program for okra, soil testing is essential. It reveals the nutrient content and pH levels of the soil, helping farmers determine how much fertilizer is needed. Adding organic matter like manure or compost boosts soil fertility by improving its structure and water retention.

Okra needs enough nitrogen for its growth and pod production. Farmers should apply 120-150kg of nitrogen per acre in divided amounts throughout the growing season. Phosphorus is vital for root and early growth, so it is recommended to apply 50-70kg per acre during land preparation. Potassium supports overall growth, fruit production, and disease resistance, with 100-120kg advised per acre at the start.

Micronutrients like zinc, boron, and manganese are also important. Farmers can apply specific micronutrient fertilizers to ensure adequate soil levels. Fertilizers can be used in two ways: broadcasting, which spreads them evenly over the field, or placement, which applies them in rows near the plants.

For best results, apply fertilizers in stages during the growing season. The first application should occur at planting, followed by others during the vegetative and fruiting phases.

Pests and Diseases

Okra is prone to various pests and diseases, including aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes. Farmers should adopt effective crop management methods such as crop rotation, selecting resistant varieties, and using organic pesticides to keep these threats in check.

Management

To manage pests and diseases in okra farming in Kenya, consider these tips:

Pests

1. Aphids are a common issue that can hinder growth and deform leaves. To control them, spray the plants with neem oil or a soap solution, or release natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.

2. The fruit and shoot borer can severely damage okra plants. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) or neem oil spray to tackle this pest.

3. Whiteflies are small insects that suck sap and can harm okra. Manage them with neem oil or soap solutions. Introducing natural predators such as parasitic wasps or ladybugs can also help.

Grape Farming in Kenya: How Meru Farmers Are Making Crazy Money

Diseases

1. Powdery mildew is a fungal illness that turns okra leaves yellow, leading to their demise. To manage it, use copper-based fungicides or neem oil.

2. Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne disease that affects okra roots, causing wilting. Plant resistant okra varieties or use a soil fumigant before planting to prevent this disease.

In addition to these tips, practicing good agriculture like proper watering, crop rotation, and timely harvesting is crucial to avoid pests and diseases. Regularly checking your okra plants helps catch any problems early for effective control.

Red Okra

Harvesting

For harvesting, pick okra pods when they are 3-4 inches long and still tender. Regular harvesting promotes ongoing production. Cut the pods from the plant with a sharp knife or scissors, taking care not to harm the plant. Sort the harvested pods by size and quality, discarding any that are damaged or diseased.

Okra is a sought-after vegetable in Kenya, with a strong market both locally and overseas. Local buyers include supermarkets and vegetable vendors, while international markets consist of countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Farmers can sell okra directly to consumers or through intermediaries like wholesalers and exporters.

Okra Profitability

Okra farming can be profitable with the right practices. Typically, an acre of land yields between 5,000 to 8,000 kilograms of okra per season, depending on soil quality, pest and disease management, and irrigation methods.

Okra is in high demand both locally and globally, making it a promising crop for farmers. Within the local market, okra is popular in kitchens, especially in urban areas and supermarkets. Abroad, there is increasing interest in okra from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This situation opens up opportunities for farmers to sell their produce in local markets or export it through brokers.

You Too Can Grow Grapes In Kenya and Make a Good Profit

The amount of okra produced per acre significantly impacts a farmer's profit. On average, an acre yields between 5,000 and 8,000 kilograms of okra pods each season. With prices ranging from Ksh. 40 to Ksh. 80 per kilogram, farmers can make between Ksh. 200,000 and Ksh. 640,000 per acre, depending on their yield and market conditions.

An Okra Plant with Pods

However, growing okra comes with risks like pests, diseases, unpredictable weather, and market changes. Farmers should recognize these challenges and take steps to manage them.

• Seedlings per acre: 2.5-3kg but varies on area, soil fertility, area etc.
• Spacing: 60cm by 15cm
• Market price per kg:  Ksh. 40 - Ksh. 80
• Yield per acre: 5,000 – 8,000kg
• Common pests: Aphids, White flies, Fruit and shoot borer
• Common diseases:  Powdery mildew, Fusarium wilt
• Lifespan:  120 days

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much okra yield per acre in Kenya?
• How long does okra take to mature?
• How much is okra per kg in Kenya?
• What is the best okra variety in Kenya?
• How is the fertilizer application program for okra?
• Which areas are best suited areas for okra growing?
• What are common pests and diseases affecting okra farming in Kenya?
• Which are the okra varieties?
• Is okra farming profitable?

 

 

 

How to Prevent and Control Late Blight in Tomato

Tomato blight, particularly late blight, is one of the serious diseases affecting tomato farming in Kenya. It is a fungal disease caused by a pathogen called Phytophthora infestans. The disease is more common during the rainy season due to the wet and humid conditions that favor the development of the pathogen. 

Tomato Late Blight: in Kenya, it is common during the rainy season

Here’s how you can prevent, manage and control tomato blight effectively:

1. Start With Preventative Measures

• Choose Resistant Varieties: Plant hybrid tomato varieties that are resistant to blight. From experience, Harmony, Ansal, Terminator, and Nyanya F1 are some of the best varieties available in Kenya in this regard. 
• Use Certified Seedlings: I would have said seeds but I know farmers nowadays prefer buying ready-to-plant seedlings. Contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357 / 0723213602 in order to buy certified, high-quality tomato seedlings. They will deliver to you any where. 
• Crop Rotation: Do not plant tomatoes on the same plot for 2 consecutive seasons. Rotate tomatoes with non-solanaceous crops like beans, peas or maize. This helps to reduce the build-up of blight-causing organisms in your soils.

2. Follow Good Agronomic Practices

• Proper Spacing: We recommend the standard spacing of 1m between the rows and 0.5m from plant to plant. This helps to improve air circulation, reducing humidity around the plants, therefore reducing the risk of developing tomato blight. 
• Pruning: Remove all the lower leaves and excess branches. Like proper spacing, this practice helps to improve airflow and reduce the spread of the tomato blight.
• Avoid Overhead Irrigation: If you must irrigate your tomatoes, please strive to use drip or flood irrigation methods: avoid sprinklers at all cost. The reason why tomato late blight is more prevalent during the rainy season is because the organisms causing it thrive in wet conditions.
• Mulching: Use dry plant matter or the commercial plastic mulch to reduce soil splashing onto leaves and help maintain soil moisture.

3. Observe Top-notch Cleanliness 

• Remove Infected Plants: Uproot and burn all the plants showing signs of blight. You better lose a few plants than damage the entire farm. 
• Clean Your Farm Tools: Treat your tools regularly with disinfectants to avoid transmitting the disease. Spray all your staking sticks before using them the next season. 
• Weed Management: Well, why would any serious tomato farmer in Kenya even be reminded of this? I am just insisting on the importance of keeping your farm free from weeds. Weeds can host the pathogens that cause late blight in tomatoes, and they also  increase humidity in the field hence creating a favourable environment for the spread of the disease.

4. Chemical Control

• Preventive Fungicides: Apply fungicides containing copper or mancozeb starting early; immediately after transplanting. some of the brands available in Kenya are: TRINITY GOLD 452 WP at 50g in 20L of water, ABSOLUTE STAR 400 SC at 10ml in 20L of water, TOWER EXTREME 680 WG at 50g in 20L of water. There are many other brands: all you need to ensure is that they have copper or Mancozeb as the active ingredient.

• Systemic Fungicides: If your crops have already been affected, use systemic fungicides to treat them. These are the fungicides containing metalaxyl or propamocarb as the active infections. I also recommend that you have 2 types of fungicides so that you use them interchangeably to avoid the disease from building up resistance.
• Frequency of Spraying: During the rainy seasons, spray once every 7–10 days. Spray once a week during if already infected.

5. Alternative Biological Control

My honest opinion of this method is that it is only suitable for small gardens. For commercial tomato farming in Kenya, I suggest sticking to the chemical control methods. However, the biological control methods available for tomato late blight are: 

• Trichoderma spp.:  Trichoderma is an active component in bio-fungicides that acts to suppress the blight pathogen. It is sprayed in crops or drenched into the soil. 
• Neem Oil and Extracts: It's application is similar to that of Trichoderma. Be careful not to cook your tomatoes by applying too much oil on the leaves that the stomata are blocked. 

6. Constantly Monitor Your Farm for Early Detection

• Tomato farming calls for a lot of dedication to the process. You must ensure that you inspect your plants regularly; everyday if possible. This will help you reduce losses by dealing with the challenge at its first signs; (dark, water-soaked spots on leaves or stems).
• Act immediately by removing infected plants and applying fungicides as directed above.

7. Post-Harvest Hygiene

• Clean up all plant remains after harvest and dispose of them away from the farm. You would better invest in proper manure than risking. 
• Do not use infected plant material to make compost manure since the pathogens will be carried on to your farm when you apply such compost.

Integrated Approach

Instead of relying on chemical control like most farmers do, I recommend combining these strategies.  We are also ever ready to help you whenever you have challenges. You can always reach us on 0724698357 / 0723213602. 

Read Also:

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

Everyone knows someone who has made millions with in tomato farming but they also know many others who have lost terribly while at it. What makes the difference is...

Pig Farming in Kenya: Tips, Ideas and Profitability

The Kenya agricultural industry is continuously changing and thereby creating new chances for small farmers like pig farmers. The demand globally for pork is continually on the rise, making pig keeping a vital industry. In fact, pork is the most widely consumed meat worldwide with over 1 billion pigs raised yearly and the annual consumption going over 300,000 metric tons. 

This demand is driven by a growing population, urbanization, and shifting eating habits. With proper management, pig farming can be a lucrative business.

Young Pigs in a Sty

The pig farming landscape in Kenya is dynamic but not without challenges. Farmers often face issues such as disease outbreaks, high feed costs, and market access. However, the increasing local demand for pork presents a unique opportunity to capitalize on this trend. By tackling these challenges effectively, pig farming can be a highly profitable business.

Fruit Farmers Getting The Most Out of Their Orchards By Cultivating in Healthy Soils.

Strategies for Success in Pig Farming

1. Hygiene

For efficient pig farming, hygiene and housing are crucial. A clean, well-ventilated, and spacious environment is essential to keep pigs healthy and comfortable. This setup reduces stress and the risk of disease. Proper cleaning of the facility at least twice daily is necessary to prevent pigs from sitting on their droppings, which can lead to health issues.

2. Efficient Breeding

Efficient breeding also plays a significant role. Choosing high-quality breeding stock can boost productivity. Sourcing piglets from trusted breeders and selecting boars and sows with traits like disease resistance and good maternal skills can enhance both productivity and profits.

A Guide To Lucrative Bee Keeping In Kenya

3. Feeding and Nutrition

Feeding and nutrition must not be overlooked. Providing a balanced diet is key for optimal growth. Using local ingredients such as soybeans, maize, and sorghum can help create a nutritious diet while keeping costs low. Since feed can account for up to 70% of production costs, using these ingredients can lead to significant savings.

4. Keeping Records

Keeping detailed records is vital for managing a pig farm effectively. Tracking breeding, feeding, vaccinations, sales, and health ensures that challenges are identified and addressed. This practice supports informed decision-making, improving overall efficiency.

A Sow with her Piglets

5. Learning

Continuous learning is essential for success. Engaging with agricultural extension officers, attending workshops, and participating in seminars helps farmers stay updated on the latest techniques and industry trends. Being informed about seasonal changes and weather conditions also prepares farmers for any challenges.

Why You Should Never Use Sawdust To Mulch Your Crops

6. Disease Management

Disease management is critical, as pigs are susceptible to serious illnesses like African Swine Fever (ASF) and Porcine Parvovirus (PPV). Raising pigs in confined spaces with paved floors can help reduce the risk of ASF. Controlling the pig tapeworm is also important, as it poses health hazards not just to pigs but to humans as well. If pork from infected pigs is undercooked, it can lead to severe health issues in people. To prevent losses from disease outbreaks, strict hygiene practices, quarantine measures, and regular vaccinations are essential.

Requirements for Pig Farming

The basic requirement for a pig venture is a pigsty, young piglets, a boar or pregnant sows, feeding equipment and feed.

Pig housing

Basically, a pig house can be constructed using locally available and affordable materials. Land space has to be available in a safe, well-drained and quiet environment with proper lighting, ample clean water and passable roads.

Land measuring 60ft by 40ft would be adequate. Construction of the house has to take into account the age and sex of the pigs.

The floor of the house must be 3m by 3m and the floor of the house must be raised about 60 cm above the ground. The floor boards should have spaces of 2 centimeters between them or should be made of concrete. The house should be rain-proof with the higher side of the roof facing sunshine but with a shade area included.

The house must have proper airflow, avoid overheating, eliminate odors, prevent drafts, and remain dry. The pig facility should be split into separate pens for each stage of the production cycle.

Dragon Fruit Farming In Sudan: The Basics You Need To Get Started

The quantity and dimensions of these pens will depend on the number of pigs expected in each production phase.

The space needed for pigs varies by age and growth stage. Fattening pigs require 0.5 to 1.0 square meters each. Pregnant sows need 1.5 to 2.0 square meters per sow. Lactating sows require 4 to 6 square meters per sow. Weaner piglets need 0.3 to 0.5 square meters each, while breeding boars need 6 to 8 square meters each.

It’s essential to pay special attention to lactating sows since they are vital for future growth. They thrive in calm surroundings, so individual pens are often necessary. Make sure there’s a furrowing pen, along with heating and cooling options. Also, provide a nest or box for piglets and a creep area for their starter feed. The spacing does not mean a cube for every pig but the calculations should be done whenever housing many pigs using these standard requirements. Once this is achieved, you are ready to stock your pigsty.

Selection of pigs

Several pig breeds are ideal for farming in Kenya. The breed selection depends on what the farmer prefers, market needs, and the pig's purpose. Here are some top choices:

1. Large White: This breed is popular because it grows quickly, converts feed efficiently, and has quality meat.

2. Landrace: Known for high productivity and excellent mothering skills, Landrace pigs thrive in free-range environments.

3. Duroc: Duroc pigs are great for producing flavorful pork with good marbling. They adapt well to different climates.

4. Hampshire: This breed is favored for its rapid growth, quality meat, and effectiveness in intensive farming systems.

5. Pietrain: Originally from Europe, Pietrain pigs are sought after in Kenya for their high lean meat content, fast growth, and good feed efficiency.

Choosing the right breed is crucial for farmers, considering their farming methods, market trends, and management styles. It's important to buy piglets from reliable breeders to ensure good quality and avoid issues that can hurt productivity and profits.

Feeding Pigs

Feeding pigs is essential for a successful farming business. Pigs need proper nutrition and veterinary care, which come with costs. Different ages of pigs have specific feeding requirements that promote growth and breeding success.

Feed can be homemade or bought commercially. Commercial feeds are usually well-balanced, except when sourced from unreliable suppliers. Most farmers buy feed based on manufacturer specifications.

Blueberry farming in Kenya: The New Gold in Agribusiness

Balanced pig feed is crucial for growth and the production of meat and milk in breeding sows. Locally sourced feeds can be affordable and nutritious if prepared correctly. Sometimes, pigs can thrive on kitchen scraps from households. The nutritional needs of pigs fall into six categories: water, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Feeding troughs are used to nourish pigs. To prevent waste, they should be secured to the pigsty floor. Pigs prefer fresh, uncontaminated feed for healthy growth. It is important to keep feed troughs clean and free from mold or water buildup. Establish regular feeding times to help pigs adjust to a schedule based on their age and size. Ensure there is enough space for all pigs to eat comfortably.

Regularly clean the feed troughs and watering equipment. Pigs should have constant access to clean water, with the daily intake varying by age. Lactating sows typically drink 20 to 30 liters daily. Depending on the farm size, troughs, bowls, or nipples can provide water but should be fixed to avoid tipping.

While pig farming can be profitable, avoid raising pigs as free-range animals. This practice can lead to potential health issues, such as the risk of acquired epilepsy in your neighborhood.

Pigs in a Clean Sty

Profitability of Pig Farming

Efficient pig management can produce six to eight piglets two times a year, earning around KES 42,000 to KES 48,000 for each pig annually. Selling mature pigs can also bring in significant income, averaging KES 40,000 per pig, based on their weight and market rates.

Start with two pregnant pigs. After seven months, you can slaughter about 20 pigs weighing 60kg to 70kg, leading to a profit of roughly KES 200,000. In regions with less pig farming, breeding and selling pregnant sows may earn around KES 365,000 in 7 to 8 months.

Profitability relies on various factors, such as feed costs, veterinary care, and operational expenses. To be successful in pig farming, you need a solid business plan and effective farming practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the challenges of pig farming in Kenya?
• How profitable is pig farming in Kenya?
• What are the housing requirements for pigs?
• What are the major challenges in pig farming?
• What are the best pig breeds for farming in Kenya?

 

 

Carrot Farming Process in Kenya

The carrot first emerged in Afghanistan about 3000 B.C. Carrots belongs to the family Apiaceae which is related to celery, celeriac, coriander, fennel, parsnip and parsley. The plant is a biennial, that is, it grows vegetatively in the first season and produces seed in the second. Carrots are said to be rich in beta-carotene, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals. Vitamin A deficiency, which causes night blindness in mothers and children, is a major public health problem. Raw carrots contain the highest amount (5800- 6100μg/100gm) of beta-carotene.

A Carrot Harvest

Optimal Ecological Requirements

Altitude

Tropical highland climate is suitable for carrots production. The adaptable altitude is depends on the variety. Ethiopia has high quality carrots production area in 1800-2,500m.

Rainfall

Carrot requires well-distributed rainfall of around 500 mm during the growing period.

Temperature

The optimum temperature for growth is 15-20 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius cause longer, more slender and paler roots. Shorter, thicker roots are produced at higher temperatures. Temperatures exceeding 20 degrees Celsius lead to poor quality.

Temperature and soil moisture influence the shape, color and quality of carrots. The temperature below or above the optimum, poorer color develops.

Soil

Carrots require deep, loose, well-drained sandy to loamy soils with a pH of 6.0-6.5. The crop produced in humus rich soil tends to increase in foliage excessively and forms forked and hairy carrots.

Brachiaria Grass Farming in Kenya:A Guide to Sustainable Livestock Feed Production.

Composting

The use of compost or organic manures is not recommended as they often cause unattractive, hairy roots, with a coarser texture as well as decrease marketable yield. Organic manures or compost should preferably be used on preceding crops in the rotation. If you have a heavy soil, dig in plenty of manure several months before planting. Never work fresh manure into the soil as this encourages forking of roots. It is important to plan in advance where to grow carrots since compost should be applied not before planting carrots but preceding crops in the rotation.

Land Preparation

They are best grown in deep well-drained and sandy loam soils. Heavy clay compacted and water-logged soils will not give the best shape and carrot sizes. Carrots need finely prepared soil to suit the germination of their small seeds, thus farmers need to plough and prepare land for carrots five to six times before planting.

Rake the soil surface to a fine-tilth seedbed before sowing the small carrot seeds. Deep ploughing or working to loosen the soil to a depth of at least 30 cm is important to allow good root development. Stony soils cause misshapen roots and produce poor quality carrots. Carrots are often planted on top of ridges or raised beds. This is especially important on heavier soils, shallow soils or these less well-drained, as it gives added soil depth, better drainage and the looser structured soils favored by the carrots.

Incorporation of Crop Residues

Incorporating crop residues in the farm land can significantly increase the soil organic content. It is recommended to incorporate crop residue as early as possible after finishing previous cultivation. Optimum pH range 6.5 to 7.5; hence lime should be applied at least 30 days before planting, if the pH is less than 6.5. If agriculture lime is not available, you can apply wood ash since they can also reduce the acidity of the soil; Apply 9kg of wood ashes per 100 meter squared. However, if the crop residues belongs to the family Apiaceae which is related to celery, celeriac, coriander, fennel, parsnip and parsley, remove and burn the residue to avoid possible risk of disease build up.

Planting Materials

Carrot seed is very small (800,000 to 1,100,000 seeds/kg). Seed should be checked for their purity percentage, germination percentage and expiry date. Use disease-free or certified seed (recommended to purchase from a research station and registered stores).

Appropriate Seeding Rate

Dense plantings could be thinned out, but this is costly and time-consuming, therefore following appropriate seed rate is necessary.

Recommended Spacing

The seed should be covered to a uniform depth of 1.0 to 2.5 cm, and should be kept moist until the plants are well established. Rows are generally spaced from 20-40cm. For double or triple rows, the width between sets of rows varies from 40 to 60cm. 

A Carrot Farming Field

A mistake that is generally made by new growers is to plant too densely. For the first time of planting, count the number of seeds between 30 to 35 plants per meter of row to achieve uniform space. Mixing seed with sand in a ratio of 1:5 helps achieve even distribution. After germination thin the plants to achieve 2.5cm between the plants. Farmers are usually reluctant to thinning out of plants, so attention must be given to ensuring that the correct seeding rate is used at planting.

Pears Farming in Kenya

Thinning

First thinning is done 1 to 2 weeks after emergence when 2-3 leaves, around 4cm high. Thin out to 2-3 cm.  Second thinning is done 2 weeks later when 5-6 leaves have emerged and thin out to 5-6 cm.

Plant Density

If the crop is not thinned out, the carrots will be small and malformed. Thinning should take place in the afternoon, and when soil is moist. Where the population is too low, roots tend to become large, are generally subject to more splitting/cracking. While where the population is excessive, roots tend to become smaller and are often twisted around one another giving a poorer quality root, and marketable yields of good quality may also be lowered.

Water Requirement

The soil moisture should be maintained at above 50 percent of available moisture throughout growth, generally 25 mm of water per week should be adequate. Under dry conditions long, thin roots are produced, while excess moisture will result in a light color and larger diameter but excessively short roots. Carrots can be grown throughout the year if rain and irrigation water is available. 

Insufficient soil moisture results in a longer and thinner root, while very wet conditions have the opposite effect and also give rise to a lighter color. The field should be irrigated lightly immediately after sowing. Irrigation water should be applied once or twice a day until germination. Watering should gradually be reduced to prevent longitudinal splitting of the roots when the crop approaches maturity. Water stress during root development also causes cracking of the roots.

Weeding

Carrots are small, rather vulnerable plants during the early stages of growth. Many weeds grow rapidly and vigorously, and are efficient competitors for available nutrients, water and sunlight. Carrot seedlings are very susceptible to weeds especially at their early stage before they cover the ground. 

Weeding and cultivation should be done 2-3 times (2 and 4 weeks after sowing) until the canopy covers the ground in order to suppress weeds and earth up roots to protect them from direct sunlight which causes them to green. When the upper part of the root is exposed to sunlight, chlorophyll is formed, resulting in undesirable green shoulders. First weeding is done 4 weeks after sowing at the same time of the first thinning and preferably done before top-dressing.

A Carrot Harvest

Top Dressing

Although carrots do not like much Nitrogen, it is good to top-dress to supply additional nutrients during the growth of the crop. Apply a top dressing of urea in a split form.  First top-dressing at 5 weeks after sowing, and second top-dressing, 3 weeks after first application, and apply the rest by sprinkling on both sides of the row, 2-10cm from the plants. Do not sprinkle on the plants. Remove all the weeds before topdressing and work into the top 2cm of the soil.

Enhancing Plant Disease Resistance Through Proper Composting Practices

Pests and Diseases Control

Management Strategies

Pests and diseases can be managed through either single control strategies or an integration of two or more methods. The single control strategies are: cultural; physical; biological; and chemical.

 1. Cultural Control: This involves managing the environment in which the crop is growing with a view of maintaining pest and disease below the harmful level. The cultural methods include: field sanitation/hygiene, intercropping, crop rotation, furrowing, flooding, solarization etc.

2. Mechanical Control: This involves use of insect traps, hand picking, screening house, weeding etc.

3. Biological Control: This involves use of natural enemies (predators and parasitoids), resistant/tolerant varieties, trap plants, push and pull system, and repellant plants

4. Chemical Control: This involves use of pesticides. Pesticides are preferred because of the quick knock down effect; they have high efficacy. Pesticide usage has been linked to environmental degradation and should be used as last resort

5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Due to limitation of a single control strategy, use of IPM is a more recommended strategy. IPM integrates cultural, mechanical, biological and as a last resort, chemical control to minimize the crop loss caused by pests and diseases.

Major Diseases

Disease infestation leads to reduction in quality and quantity of produce .The proper understanding of each disease symptoms and characters can help to develop integrated disease control methods. The following are the major diseases affecting carrot farming; Leaf blight, Powdery mildew, Root-knot and nematode.

Management

Use clean, certified seed. Practice crop rotation. Remove weeds and discard plant debris. To avoid infesting new fields with plant-parasitic nematodes, clean equipment and tools thoroughly with water, and prevent movement of infested soil. Carrots are more susceptible to root knot nematodes than any other vegetables. Nematodes are not very active in cool weather below 17 degrees Celsius, so sometimes winter carrots will be successful even in soils where some nematodes are present. Pull up affected carrots and dispose them.

Harvesting

Carrots are harvested when they have reached a diameter of 20 mm and more, still young and tender. Where carrots have grown poorly or in very dense stands, the criteria for lifting should not be size, but rather maturity and quality. Due to the market demand or other factors, carrots can be harvested earlier. Usually when the carrots have reached the mature stage, their base tips appear on the soil surface.

Fruits Rich in Antioxidants: Healthy Choices in 2024

Harvesting is done from 90-120 days after sowing depending on the temperature of the growing area. Carrots lifted from wet soils tend to crack and are more susceptible to damage; therefore, the soil should be allowed to dry out to some extent before harvesting. In dry periods, it is better to use hand tools. After harvesting, topped, washed and packed, remove the leaves before storing to extend shelf life. Fresh carrots harvested when mature will keep for up to five days at room temperature 20 degrees Celsius and for 7-21 days in a refrigerator.

Carrots

Post-Harvest Handling

Packaging

Small size and misshaped should be removed before packing which is estimated to be between 5-10 percent depending on the management of the farmers. After harvesting, if necessary, carrots can be put in cold storage for several months with storage humidity above 90% and the temperature is approximately 0 degrees Celsius. 

In rural conditions, storing carrots is not recommended due to lack of facility. Depending on the market carrots can be sold in bunches or in plastic bags. Bunched carrots have a shorter shelf because they have a higher respiration rate than carrots that have been topped and are in plastic.

• Seedlings per acre: 2.5kg per acre
• Spacing: 20-40cm between rows
• Market price per kg: 50-100 depending on market demand and supply
• Yield per acre: 11-50 tons
• Common pests: Aphids, cut worm, white flies, flea beetles
• Common diseases: Leaf blight, Powdery mildew, Root-knot and nematode.
• Lifespan: one growing season

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the best climatic conditions for carrot farming?
• How long do carrots take to mature in Kenya?
• How much do carrots make per acre in Kenya?
• How many months do carrots take to grow?
• What makes carrots grow faster?               
• Is carrot farming profitable?