Broccoli farming in Kenya is becoming increasingly popular due to the high demand for this nutritious vegetable. Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family and is packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium. It is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
Broccoli can be grown in various parts of Kenya, including central Kenya, Rift Valley, and parts of Eastern and Western regions. The vegetable grows well in well-drained soils and requires adequate water and sunlight to thrive. Farmers are advised to use organic fertilizers and pesticides to avoid harmful residues that can affect the quality of the crop.
Broccoli farming can be a profitable venture for farmers in Kenya, especially those who have access to reliable markets. The vegetable is in high demand in local and international markets, and the prices are relatively stable throughout the year. With proper planning and management, broccoli farming can provide a steady income for farmers and contribute to the country’s food security.
Climate and Soil Requirements
Broccoli is a cool-season crop that requires a temperate climate with moderate rainfall. The ideal temperature range for growing broccoli is between 15°C and 20°C. In Kenya, broccoli farming is best suited for high altitude areas with a cool climate. These areas include Limuru, Kiambu, and parts of Rift Valley.
Broccoli requires well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5. Sandy loam soils are well suited for early varieties, while loamy soils are suitable for late varieties. The soil should be prepared well in advance by plowing, harrowing, and adding organic matter such as compost or manure.
Broccoli requires soils that can provide continuous water throughout the season. Irrigation should be done regularly to ensure that the soil remains moist. Drip irrigation is recommended as it saves water and reduces the risk of disease. The crop should be protected from strong winds and heavy rains, which can cause damage to the plants.
It is important to note that broccoli is a heavy feeder and requires adequate nutrients for optimal growth. A soil test should be conducted before planting to determine the nutrient levels in the soil. The results of the soil test will guide the farmer on the type and amount of fertilizer to apply. Nitrogen is the most important nutrient for broccoli, and it should be applied in split doses throughout the growing season.
Also Read: Variety Of Broccoli In Kenya
Varieties of Broccoli Grown in Kenya
Broccoli is a highly nutritious vegetable that is grown in Kenya for local consumption and export. There are three commonly grown types of broccoli in Kenya:
- Calabrese broccoli
- Prouting broccoli
- Purple cauliflower
Calabrese broccoli is the most commonly grown type of broccoli in Kenya. It is a green, large-headed broccoli that is known for its high yields and good flavor. It is often used in salads, stir-fries, and soups.
Prouting broccoli is another type of broccoli that is grown in Kenya. It is a smaller, more delicate broccoli that has a milder flavor than Calabrese broccoli. It is often used in salads and as a garnish.
Purple cauliflower is a type of broccoli that has a purple head. It is less commonly grown in Kenya than the other two types of broccoli, but it is still a popular vegetable. It has a slightly sweeter flavor than Calabrese broccoli and is often used in salads and stir-fries.
Planting and Care of Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-season crop that grows best in temperatures between 15-20°C. It requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for broccoli is between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, it is important to prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
Broccoli can be directly seeded or first planted in a nursery bed, then transplanted after four to six weeks. When planting, spacing of 45-60 cm between rows and 30-45 cm between plants is recommended to allow for proper growth and development. It is important to water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure that the soil remains moist.
Broccoli is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, caterpillars, and clubroot. To prevent these problems, it is important to practice good crop rotation, use disease-resistant varieties, and monitor the plants regularly for signs of infestation. If pests or diseases are detected, appropriate measures such as spraying with organic insecticides or fungicides should be taken to control the problem.
Additionally, broccoli plants require adequate nutrients to grow and produce high-quality heads. It is important to fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is also important to ensure that the plants receive adequate sunlight, as this is necessary for proper growth and development.
In summary, proper planting and care of broccoli is essential for a successful harvest. This includes preparing the soil, spacing the plants correctly, watering regularly, preventing pest and disease problems, and providing adequate nutrients and sunlight. By following these guidelines, farmers in Kenya can grow healthy and productive broccoli crops.
Pest and Disease Management
Broccoli farming in Kenya can be challenging due to the prevalence of pests and diseases. However, with proper management practices, these challenges can be overcome. Here are some common pests and diseases that affect broccoli and how to manage them:
Pests
Flea beetles, cabbage loopers, imported cabbageworms, and diamondback moths are the most common pests that attack broccoli in Kenya. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant, leading to reduced yields.
To manage these pests, farmers can use integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, which involve a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control methods. Cultural control methods include crop rotation, planting resistant varieties, and removing plant debris. Biological control methods involve the use of natural predators, such as parasitic wasps, to control pest populations. Chemical control methods involve the use of pesticides, but these should be used as a last resort and only when necessary.
Diseases
Broccoli is also susceptible to various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some common diseases that affect broccoli in Kenya include black rot, clubroot, and fusarium yellows.
Black rot is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Clubroot is caused by the soil-borne pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Fusarium yellows is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
To manage these diseases, farmers can use cultural control methods, such as crop rotation, planting resistant varieties, and removing plant debris. Chemical control methods, such as fungicides, can also be used, but these should be used as a last resort and only when necessary.
Overall, pest and disease management is crucial for successful broccoli farming in Kenya. By using IPM techniques and implementing proper cultural control methods, farmers can minimize the impact of pests and diseases on their crops and ensure a healthy and productive harvest.
Harvesting and Marketing of Broccoli
Broccoli is usually harvested by hand to avoid any damage to the heads. It is best to harvest broccoli early in the morning when there is no sun. Hand harvesting is best done when no yellow petals show, that is when broccoli heads are tight and closed. The broccoli heads mature at different times, which means that two or three cuts may be needed to harvest a field. After harvesting, the broccoli should be immediately cooled to maintain its freshness.
Broccoli intended for fresh consumption is often sold in bunches weighing about 450 to 600 g. In the retail market, an average-sized head of broccoli retails at about KES 50. This means that farmers get as much as KES 25 for the same head. Broccoli is often cut and packed into wax-covered boxes in the field, and then transported to the market. It is important to ensure that the broccoli is transported in a cool environment to maintain its freshness.
The market for broccoli in Kenya is growing as more people become conscious of their diets and embrace healthy eating habits. Broccoli is a leafy green vegetable that is related to cabbage, kale, and cauliflower. It is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. Broccoli soup and salad can be cooked and served with a variety of foods. Farmers who venture into broccoli farming can make millions of shillings by selling their produce to the local market or exporting it to other countries.
Challenges and Opportunities of Broccoli Farming in Kenya
Broccoli farming in Kenya has its own set of challenges and opportunities. Here are some of them:
Challenges
- Climate: Broccoli thrives in cool weather, and it is susceptible to frost damage. This makes it difficult to grow in some parts of Kenya, especially in areas with high temperatures.
- Pests and Diseases: Broccoli is prone to attacks by pests such as aphids, cutworms, and cabbage worms, and diseases such as black rot, clubroot, and downy mildew. Farmers need to take preventive measures to control these pests and diseases.
- Market: Broccoli is a relatively new crop in Kenya, and farmers may face challenges in finding a market for their produce. They need to identify potential buyers and establish a reliable supply chain.
Opportunities
- Health Benefits: Broccoli is known for its high nutritional value, and more people are becoming health-conscious. This presents an opportunity for farmers to tap into the growing demand for healthy food options.
- High Returns: Broccoli is a high-value crop, and farmers can earn good returns on their investment. According to one source, an average-sized head of broccoli retails at about 50 shillings, and farmers can get as much as 25 shillings for the same head.
- Export Market: Kenya has a growing export market for fresh produce, and broccoli is one of the crops with export potential. Farmers can take advantage of this market to increase their earnings.
Overall, broccoli farming in Kenya has its challenges, but it also presents opportunities for farmers who are willing to invest in it. With the right knowledge, skills, and resources, farmers can succeed in this venture and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector in Kenya.
Conclusion
Broccoli farming in Kenya is a lucrative venture that can bring in good income if done properly. With the right knowledge, skills, and resources, farmers can grow broccoli for both off-season and main season production. The vegetable is high in demand due to its nutritional value and health benefits, making it a good crop for commercial farming.
One of the challenges that farmers face when growing broccoli is finding a reliable market. However, with persistence and creativity, farmers can explore new markets both locally and internationally. The story of Lawrence Njoroge, a young broccoli farmer from Lari, is a testament to this. Despite facing market challenges, he has continued to grow and harvest broccoli, banking on the new South Korea market.
Broccoli can be grown in different ways, including outdoors, indoors, in pots, greenhouses, and shade nets. However, it requires proper care and management to ensure a good yield. Farmers should ensure that the soil is fertile, well-drained, and rich in nutrients. They should also monitor the crop for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
In conclusion, broccoli farming in Kenya has the potential to be a profitable business if done right. Farmers should invest in acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills, as well as resources such as quality seeds and fertilizers. By doing so, they can tap into the growing demand for broccoli and contribute to the country’s food security and economic growth.
Sources: Komatsuzaki, M. “Cover crops reduce nitrogen leaching and improve food quality in an organic potato and broccoli farming rotation.” Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 72.5 (2017): 539-549. Link: https://www.jswconline.org/content/72/5/539.short
Fischer EF. Broccoli and desire: global connections and Maya struggles in postwar Guatemala. Stanford University Press; 2006. Link: https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=tXSd0KnZ7QQC&oi=fnd&pg=PP10&dq=Broccoli+Farming+&ots=SUQGLxhWS0&sig=Ztu85rG1GEqaViT9-8F-fgNLiLM
