Maize is one of the most important staple foods in Kenya, cultivated by both large-scale and small-scale farmers for both subsistence and commercial purposes. It is considered a high-value crop as every part of the plant—from the grains and cobs to the stalks and leaves—has significant value. The grains are consumed directly or processed into maize flour, while the cobs, stalks, and leaves can be used as animal feed.
Varieties of Maize Grown in Kenya
- Hybrid
- Local seed or breed
- Katumani
- Coast Composite
Ecological Conditions for Growing Maize
Maize requires specific environmental conditions for optimal growth:
- Temperature: Between 15°C to 30°C.
- Rainfall: Well-distributed rainfall throughout the growing season.
- Altitude: Between 100m to 2900m above sea level.
- Soil: Well-drained alluvial or loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0.
Land Preparation
To ensure proper growth, land should be well prepared before planting. Key practices include:
- Ploughing: Plough the land early to allow time for weeds to decompose.
- Weed Management: Use weed killers like Catapult before planting.
- Soil Fertility: Mix soil with organic manure and fertilisers such as DAP to ensure adequate nutrient availability.
Planting
- Method: Direct seeding.
- Planting Season: Best done at the onset of rain.
- Spacing: The recommended planting space is 90cm by 30cm. Place two seeds per hole and cover with loose soil.
- Fertilisation: Apply a teaspoon of DAP in each hole for proper root development.
Farm Practices
- Thinning: Remove weak or deformed seedlings when the maize plants reach about 15cm in height.
- Gapping: After germination, replace any ungerminated seeds to ensure even crop growth.
- Top Dressing: Apply CAN fertiliser 2-3 weeks after planting to enhance nitrogen fixation in the soil.
- Weeding: Regular weeding is essential to prevent competition for nutrients and avoid pest and disease infestations.
Pests and Diseases
Common pests that attack maize include:
- Aphids
- Cutworms
- Stalkborer
- Fall armyworms
Control can be achieved through insecticides such as Kingcode Elite.
Common diseases affecting maize include:
- Northern leaf blight
- Maize smut
- Maize lethal necrosis
Managing these diseases includes crop rotation and planting resistant varieties.
Maize Market in Kenya
Maize has a high demand in Kenya as a staple food. It is primarily sold to:
- Consumers
- Millers
- Institutions (e.g., schools, hotels, restaurants)
Additionally, the cobs, stalks, and leaves are used as animal feed, which can be sold to livestock farmers or processed further into commercial animal feeds.
Maize farming in Kenya offers significant opportunities for both subsistence and commercial farming due to its high demand and multiple market avenues. By following proper farming practices and maintaining good pest and disease control, farmers can ensure high yields and profitability.
