Arrowroots farming in Kenya represents a lucrative opportunity for farmers, especially in marshy areas where these water-loving crops thrive best. Known locally as “nduma,” arrowroots are appreciated not only for their culinary versatility but also for their rich nutritional content, including vitamins, minerals, and fibers.
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Varieties of Arrowroots in Kenya
- Dasheen Variety – Known for its large tubers, making it suitable for commercial farming.
- Eddoe Variety – More common and characterized by smaller tubers.
Ecological Requirements
- Soil Type: Well-drained loamy soil is ideal.
- Soil pH: Optimal soil pH is between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Moisture: Constant moisture level is crucial.
- Rainfall: Well-distributed rainfall throughout the year supports growth.
Land Preparation
Proper land preparation is crucial:
- Thorough and deep ploughing is recommended.
- Harrowing 2-3 times depending on the soil structure to ensure fine tilth.
Planting
Arrowroots are propagated using suckers, rootstock, or rhizomes:
- Rhizomes: Select those with 2 or more nodes.
- Spacing: Plant on ridges about 1.0m by 0.75m apart.
- Upland Arrowroots Technology: For areas away from water bodies, use trenches lined with polythene to retain moisture.
Pests and Diseases
Arrowroots are generally resilient but can be affected by:
- Pests: Leaf roller, colopedes etheus. Control with arsenical sprays.
- Diseases: Leaf mosaic, bacterial wilt, banded leaf blight. Use appropriate foliar sprays and fungicides like maneb and copper-based products.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Harvesting typically occurs after 8-10 months, when the leaves begin to shrink and yellow.
- Method: Dig out the tubers carefully to avoid damage.
Market Opportunities
- Local Markets: Arrowroots have a high demand in open-air markets, supermarkets, and groceries.
- Institutions: Hotels and restaurants are significant consumers of arrowroots.
Farming Tips
- Water Management: Ensure consistent moisture, especially when using upland technology.
- Nutrient Management: Apply organic manure during land preparation to enhance fertility.
- Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on the growth to manage pests and diseases timely.
Arrowroot farming can be highly rewarding, given its minimal maintenance costs and high nutritional value which drive demand in various markets. With proper management, farmers can achieve significant profits from cultivating arrowroots in Kenya.
