Yellow beans are among the most popular and highly consumed beans in Kenya, making their cultivation a profitable agribusiness venture. They have a readily available local market and are preferred by both small-scale and large-scale farmers due to their high demand.
Growing Areas in Kenya
Yellow beans thrive in various regions of Kenya, including:
- Western
- Rift Valley
- Eastern
- Central
- Nyanza
Ecological Requirements
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy-loam soils rich in organic matter
- Climate: Warm conditions with well-distributed rainfall
- pH: Ideal soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5
Varieties of Yellow Beans
Pole Yellow Beans:
- Yellow Roman
- Marvel of Venice
- Gold Nectar
- Kentucky Wonder
- Monte Gusto
Bush Yellow Beans:
- Brittle Wax Bush Snap Bean
- Pencil Pod Black Wax Bean
- Golden Butter Wax Bush Snap Bean
- Goldrush Bush Snap Bean
Land Preparation
Land should be thoroughly ploughed and prepared to a fine tilth before planting. Weeding is crucial to minimize competition for nutrients. Incorporate well-decomposed farmyard manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
Planting
- Seeds: Use certified, disease-free seeds.
- Spacing: 30cm by 30cm, planted at a depth of 1-2 inches.
- Seed Rate: Approximately 20-30 kg of seeds per acre.
- Top Dressing: After 2-3 weeks of planting, top dress with DAP or NPK fertilizers to support growth.
Pests and Diseases
Common Diseases: Downy mildew, bean rust, anthracnose, bacterial blight, fusarium wilt.
Common Pests: Aphids, cutworms, thrips, bean fly, and pod borers.
Use recommended insecticides and pesticides (e.g., Lexus, Ransom, Absolute) for control. Good crop hygiene and proper rotation can also minimize pest and disease issues.
Harvesting
Yellow beans mature approximately 60-70 days after planting, depending on the variety. Harvesting is done manually once the pods have dried. Ensure proper drying and storage to maintain quality.
Market for Yellow Beans in Kenya
Yellow beans enjoy a ready and lucrative market in Kenya, fetching good prices in:
- Local open-air markets
- Cereal stores
- Supermarkets
- Groceries
With proper crop management, yellow beans farming can offer a reliable income source for Kenyan farmers and contribute to food security and nutrition in the country.
