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.