Azolla farming is gaining popularity in Kenya as a sustainable and highly productive agribusiness venture. Azolla, an aquatic fern, doubles its biomass within 3-10 days, making it an excellent choice for livestock feed and organic fertilizer.
What is Azolla?
Azolla is a short, branched, floating aquatic fern with roots that hang in water. Its high nutritional value and fast growth rate make it a preferred option for feeding livestock such as cattle, poultry, pigs, and fish.
Common Varieties of Azolla in Kenya
Farmers in Kenya grow several species of Azolla, including:
- Azolla Nilotica
- Azolla Imbricata
- Azolla Pinatta (most commonly grown variety).
Nutritional Benefits of Azolla
Azolla is packed with essential nutrients:
- Protein Content: High protein levels make it ideal for livestock feed.
- Amino Acids: Rich in essential amino acids.
- Vitamins: Contains vitamins A and B12.
- Minerals: Loaded with potassium, phosphorous, calcium, and magnesium.
Ecological Conditions for Growing Azolla
Azolla thrives in specific conditions, which include:
- Water Sources: Can be grown in ponds, ditches, or wetlands with stagnant or slow-moving water.
- Soil pH: Grows in soils with pH 3.5-10 (optimum pH: 4.3-7).
- Temperature: Ideal temperature ranges between 20-30°C.
- Sunlight: Requires partial shade, with 25-50% sunlight access.
- Manure: Fully composted manure is essential for growth.
- Spacing: Approximately two feet of space is needed to hold manure and allow proper growth.
With proper spacing and care, Azolla can yield up to 12 tonnes per hectare.
Harvesting Azolla
- Harvest Frequency: Azolla can be harvested every three days.
- Usage:
- Fresh Feed: Can be fed directly to livestock.
- Dried Feed: For surplus harvests, Azolla should be dried immediately as it is highly perishable.
- Storage: Drying enhances its shelf life and makes storage easier.
Azolla farming is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to enhance livestock nutrition and soil fertility. With minimal input and proper ecological management, farmers can achieve high yields and sustainable profits.
