Barley is a versatile cereal grain that is widely cultivated for various purposes, including animal fodder and beer production. In Kenya, barley is primarily grown for the brewing industry, which uses the grain to produce beer. This crop provides an opportunity for farmers, especially in highland areas, to diversify their income sources.
Main Barley Growing Areas in Kenya
Barley is grown mainly in the highland regions of Kenya, where the temperate climate is ideal for its growth. The key barley-growing regions in Kenya include:
- Narok
- Naivasha
- Molo
- Nakuru
- Laikipia
Ecological Requirements for Growing Barley
Barley requires specific environmental conditions to thrive. The following factors are important for successful barley farming:
- Soil: Deep, fertile loam soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 are ideal for barley cultivation.
- Rainfall: Barley grows well with an annual rainfall of 390-430 mm.
- Temperature: The ideal temperature for growing barley is between 12°C and 15°C, while a temperature of about 30°C is needed for maturity.
Varieties of Barley Grown in Kenya
Several varieties of barley are grown in Kenya, with the most common being:
- Fanaka
- Quench
- Aliciana
These varieties are selected for their ability to withstand Kenya’s climatic conditions and their suitability for use in the brewing industry.
Land Preparation and Planting
Proper land preparation is essential for healthy barley growth. Here’s how to go about it:
- Land Preparation: The land should be thoroughly prepared before planting, with proper weeding to remove any existing vegetation. Herbicides may be applied to control weeds.
- Planting: Barley is typically planted with a spacing of 20 cm between rows and 10-15 cm between plants. This ensures that the plants have enough space to grow and thrive.
- Seed Requirements: For one acre of land, you will need approximately 30-40 kg of seeds.
- Fungicide Application: Around 35 days after planting, fungicides should be applied to protect the crop from diseases. Foliar feed should be applied before flowering to help manage weeds and boost crop health.
Pests and Diseases
Barley, like other crops, is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Common issues include:
- Head Blight
- Covered Smut
- Leaf Rust
- Stem Rust
- Powdery Mildew
Control Measures:
- The best way to control these diseases is by planting resistant varieties.
- Ensuring proper field sanitation and crop management practices also help mitigate the impact of pests and diseases.
Harvesting Barley
Barley is ready for harvest after about 60-70 days, depending on the variety. Key indicators of maturity include:
- Seed Heads: When the seed heads start to drop, this is a sign that the barley is ready for harvesting.
- Stalk Color: When the stalk turns from green to yellow, it is another indication of readiness.
Harvesting Tips:
- Harvesting is best done early in the morning when the temperatures are cool to preserve the quality of the barley.
Market for Barley in Kenya
The primary market for barley in Kenya is the brewing industry, which consumes a large portion of the barley produced. Major breweries such as East African Breweries Limited (EABL) are the main buyers of barley.
- Animal Fodder: Barley can also be sold as animal fodder. Livestock farmers use barley as feed for their animals, providing an additional market opportunity for barley farmers.
Conclusion
Barley farming in Kenya is a profitable venture, especially with the growing demand from the brewing industry. Farmers in suitable regions can benefit from cultivating barley, provided they adhere to proper farming practices, pest and disease management, and market linkages. Whether selling to breweries or as animal fodder, barley farming offers diverse income opportunities.
