Cassava farming in Kenya is a significant agricultural activity, especially beneficial for farmers due to the crop’s resilience and adaptability to various environmental conditions. Cassava is particularly vital as it provides food security and income for small-scale farmers.
Varieties of Cassava in Kenya
- Kaleso
- Tajirika
- Guzo
- Karembo
- Tereka
- Migyera
- Mucericeri
- Ex-ndovu
- KME 1 & 2
- Serere
- BAO
Ecological Requirements
- Soil: Deep, well-drained soils with a pH of 5.5-7.5.
- Altitude: Suitable for regions 0-1500m above sea level.
- Temperature: Optimal growth temperature is between 20-30°C.
- Rainfall: Requires annual rainfall between 1000-1500mm.
Planting
- Method: Cassava is propagated from stem cuttings from mature plants (12-18 months old).
- Planting Technique: Planting on ridges is recommended for best results, with vertical planting where 2/3 of the cutting is buried.
- Spacing: Recommended spacing is 1m x 1m.
- Fertilization: Use NPK fertilizer; about 300kg per hectare is sufficient.
Farm Management
- Weeding: Regular weeding is necessary to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Water Management: Although cassava is drought-tolerant, adequate water during the growing season enhances growth.
Pests and Diseases
- Pests: Includes cassava green mites, mealybug, and red spider mites. Use resistant varieties and practice good field hygiene.
- Diseases: Cassava mosaic virus, cassava brown streak, and bacterial blight are common. Use healthy cuttings and rotate crops to manage these issues.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Varies by variety but typically 8-12 months.
- Method: Harvest by uprooting the whole plant when the leaves begin to yellow and drop.
Market Opportunities
- Local Demand: High local demand in open-air markets, grocery stores, and by institutions such as hotels and restaurants.
- Industrial Use: Increasing interest for use in starch production and as a biofuel resource.
Tips for Success
- Quality Cuttings: Use high-quality, disease-free cuttings to ensure healthy plants.
- Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on the growth and health of the plants to address issues promptly.
- Community Engagement: Connect with other farmers and agricultural experts for tips and updates on cassava farming practices.
Cassava farming offers a robust opportunity for farmers in Kenya to engage in a crop that is not only adaptable to less optimal farming conditions but also offers significant economic benefits due to its high demand and versatile use.
