Coriander farming or Dhania is a crucial aspect of agriculture in Kenya, providing a source of income for thousands of farmers across the country. Coriander is a popular herb used in various cuisines around the world and has numerous health benefits. Kenya is one of the largest producers of coriander in Africa, with the herb being grown in various regions across the country.
Coriander farming in Kenya is an important economic activity, providing employment opportunities for many people, especially in rural areas. Farmers in Kenya grow coriander for both local and international markets, with the herb being in high demand due to its unique flavor and health benefits. The herb is used in various food products, including sauces, salads, and soups, among others.
Despite the numerous benefits of coriander farming in Kenya, farmers face various challenges, including pests and diseases, lack of access to markets, and inadequate farming inputs. However, there are ongoing efforts by the government and other stakeholders to address these challenges and improve coriander farming in the country. This article explores the various aspects of coriander farming in Kenya, including its benefits, challenges, and potential for growth.
Climate and Soil Requirements
Coriander is a cool-season crop that grows best in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. It requires a moderate amount of rainfall, ideally between 500mm and 600mm annually. However, excessive rainfall can cause damage to the crop, so it’s essential to ensure proper drainage in the field.
The soil for coriander farming should be well-drained and fertile, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Sandy loam soil with good organic matter content is ideal for coriander cultivation. The soil should be free from weeds, pests, and diseases, and it should have good water-holding capacity.
Also Read: The Best Fertilizer For Coriander Farming
Before planting, it’s recommended to conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient content and pH level of the soil. Based on the test results, appropriate fertilizers should be added to the soil to provide the necessary nutrients for the crop’s growth.
In areas with high temperatures, coriander should be grown during the cooler months to prevent bolting, which is the premature flowering of the plant. Bolting reduces the yield and quality of the crop.
Overall, coriander farming requires careful attention to the climate and soil conditions to ensure optimal growth and yield.
Land Preparation
Coriander, also known as cilantro, is a popular herb used in many dishes around the world. In Kenya, coriander farming is becoming increasingly popular due to its high demand in both local and international markets. To ensure a successful harvest, proper land preparation is crucial.
The first step in land preparation is to clear the land of any weeds or debris. This can be done manually or with the use of machinery. Once the land is cleared, it should be plowed to a depth of at least 15 cm to ensure proper aeration and drainage. The soil should also be tested to determine its pH level and nutrient content.
If the soil is found to be deficient in any nutrients, it should be amended accordingly. This can be done by adding organic matter such as compost or manure, or by applying chemical fertilizers. It is important to follow the recommended application rates to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to environmental pollution and reduced crop yields.
After the soil has been amended, it should be tilled to incorporate the amendments and create a fine seedbed. This will ensure good seed-to-soil contact and promote uniform germination. The seedbed should also be leveled to prevent waterlogging and facilitate irrigation.
In summary, proper land preparation is essential for a successful coriander harvest. This involves clearing the land of weeds and debris, plowing to a depth of at least 15 cm, testing and amending the soil as necessary, tilling to create a fine seedbed, and leveling to facilitate irrigation.
Seed Selection and Planting
Coriander farming in Kenya requires careful consideration of the seed selection and planting process. The success of the crop is largely dependent on the quality of seeds and the planting method used. Below are some tips on seed selection and planting:
- Choose high-quality seeds that are free from diseases and pests. It is advisable to buy seeds from reputable suppliers to ensure quality.
- Before planting, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. This helps to soften the seed coat and speed up the germination process.
- Coriander seeds require well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and adding organic matter such as compost or manure.
- Plant the seeds at a depth of 1-2 cm and space them 10-15 cm apart. This ensures proper growth and development of the plants.
- Water the seeds immediately after planting and continue to water regularly, especially during dry spells.
It is important to note that coriander is a cool-season crop and does not do well in high temperatures. Therefore, it is advisable to plant the seeds during the cool months of the year, such as March to June or September to November.
By following the above tips on seed selection and planting, farmers can increase their chances of a successful coriander harvest. However, it is important to regularly monitor the crop for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
Pest and Disease Control
Coriander farming in Kenya is not without its challenges, and one of the biggest is pest and disease control. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect your coriander crop and how to control them:
Pests
Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from coriander leaves and stunt the growth of your plants. To control them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of coriander leaves. To control them, spray your plants with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap.
Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut through the stems of young coriander plants, causing them to wilt and die. To control them, use a biological control like Bacillus thuringiensis or handpick them off your plants.
Diseases
Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of coriander leaves. To control it, rotate your crops and use disease-resistant varieties.
Leaf spot: This bacterial disease can cause brown spots on coriander leaves. To control it, remove infected leaves and use a copper-based fungicide.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powder-like substance to appear on coriander leaves. To control it, use a sulfur-based fungicide or neem oil.
By being vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can keep pests and diseases from ruining your coriander crop and ensure a successful harvest.
Fertilizer Application
Coriander is a heavy feeder crop and requires proper nutrient management for optimal growth and yield. Fertilizer application is a crucial aspect of coriander farming that farmers should pay close attention to. Below are some important tips on fertilizer application for coriander farming in Kenya.
Soil Testing
Before applying fertilizer, it is important to conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient status of the soil. This will help farmers to determine the type and amount of fertilizer to apply. A soil test will also help farmers to identify any nutrient deficiencies or imbalances that may affect crop growth and yield.
Fertilizer Types and Application Rates
Coriander requires nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) for optimal growth and yield. The type and amount of fertilizer to apply will depend on the soil test results. Generally, a balanced NPK fertilizer such as 23:23:0 or 17:17:17 is recommended for coriander farming. The recommended application rate is 100-150kg/ha of NPK fertilizer.
Fertilizer Application Timing
Fertilizer should be applied at the right time to ensure that the crop gets the nutrients it needs at the right time. The first application should be done at planting, and subsequent applications should be done at 3-4 week intervals. Applying fertilizer too late can lead to poor growth and yield, while applying it too early can lead to nutrient leaching and waste.
Fertilizer Application Methods
There are different methods of fertilizer application, including broadcasting, banding, and foliar spraying. Broadcasting involves spreading fertilizer evenly over the soil surface. Banding involves placing fertilizer in a narrow band close to the plant roots. Foliar spraying involves applying fertilizer directly to the leaves. Farmers should choose the method that is most appropriate for their farming system and soil conditions.
Fertilizer Safety
Farmers should take precautions when handling and applying fertilizer to ensure their safety and that of the environment. Fertilizer should be stored in a cool, dry, and secure place away from children and animals. Farmers should wear protective clothing and avoid inhaling fertilizer dust. Unused fertilizer should be stored properly for future use.
Irrigation
Coriander farming in Kenya requires proper irrigation to ensure the plants receive enough water throughout their growth cycle. The crop requires moderate to high amounts of water, and the irrigation method used should provide sufficient moisture to the soil.
Drip irrigation is the most recommended method for coriander farming. It ensures water is delivered directly to the plant’s roots, reducing water waste and minimizing the risk of diseases. This method also helps to maintain the soil’s moisture content, which is crucial for the crop’s growth.
Another effective irrigation method is sprinkler irrigation. This method involves spraying water over the crop using sprinklers. It is suitable for large-scale farms and can be used to irrigate the crop during the dry season. However, it can lead to water wastage and increase the risk of diseases if not done correctly.
When irrigating coriander, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plants, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. Farmers should also ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can also affect the crop’s growth.
In conclusion, proper irrigation is crucial for successful coriander farming in Kenya. Drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation are the most recommended methods, but farmers should ensure they do not overwater the plants and that the soil is well-draining.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Management
Harvesting of coriander is done when the plants are mature and ready for harvesting. The plant is ready for harvesting after 45-60 days from sowing. The leaves are harvested when they reach a height of 15-20cm. Harvesting is done early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid wilting of the leaves due to heat stress.
After harvesting, the leaves are sorted to remove any damaged or diseased leaves. The leaves are then washed thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. The washed leaves are then dried in the shade to retain the green color and aroma.
The dried leaves are then packed in clean, dry, and airtight containers. The containers should be labeled with the date of packing, variety, and the weight of the coriander. Proper labeling helps in easy identification and traceability of the product.
Post-harvest management is crucial in maintaining the quality and shelf life of the coriander. The coriander should be stored in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. The storage area should be well-ventilated to prevent the growth of mold and fungi.
Regular inspection should be done to check for any signs of spoilage or infestation. Any spoiled or infested coriander should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of the infestation.
Proper post-harvest management practices help in maintaining the quality and shelf life of the coriander. This ensures that the coriander reaches the market in good condition and fetches a good price.
Marketing and Value Addition
Coriander farming in Kenya has a ready market both locally and internationally. The crop is in high demand due to its numerous health benefits and culinary uses. The main market for coriander in Kenya is the domestic market, where it is sold fresh in open-air markets and supermarkets. The crop is also exported to European countries, the Middle East, and Asia, where it is used in the production of spices, essential oils, and perfumes.
Value addition is a crucial aspect of coriander farming that can increase profits for farmers. Some of the value-added products that can be produced from coriander include essential oils, dried leaves, and powders. Essential oils are extracted from the leaves and seeds of the coriander plant and are used in the production of perfumes, soaps, and other cosmetic products. Dried leaves and powders are used as spices in the food industry.
Coriander farmers can also add value to their crop by processing it into ready-to-use products such as coriander paste, chutney, and pickles. These products have a longer shelf life and can be sold at a higher price than fresh coriander. Farmers can also package their coriander in attractive packaging and sell it as a premium product to high-end markets.
In addition to value addition, farmers can also increase their profits by adopting good marketing practices. This includes identifying the right market for their products, establishing good relationships with buyers, and branding their products. Farmers can also take advantage of online marketplaces such as Jumia, Kilimall, and Amazon to reach a wider market and increase their sales.
Overall, coriander farming in Kenya has great potential for profitability due to the high demand for the crop. By adopting good marketing practices and value addition, farmers can increase their profits and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector in Kenya.
Also Read: Rosemary Farming In Kenya
Sources: Mangwende, E., Quenton Kritzinger, and T. A. S. Aveling. “Control of Alternaria leaf spot of coriander in organic farming.” European Journal of Plant Pathology 154 (2019): 575-584. Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10658-019-01682-6
Ahmad, T. A. U. F. I. Q., et al. “Effect of organic fertilizer on growth and yield of coriander.” Int. J. Agri and Env. Res 3.1 (2017): 116-120. Link: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Taufiq-Ahmad/publication/321051277_EFFECT_OF_ORGANIC_FERTILIZERS_ON_GROWTH_AND_YIELD_OF_CORIANDER/links/5a0acaa3aca272d40f41501b/EFFECT-OF-ORGANIC-FERTILIZERS-ON-GROWTH-AND-YIELD-OF-CORIANDER.pdf
