This archive report was first published on 17 July 2021.
On a quarter acre in Mukuyuni village, Makueni County, Paul Mwanza's Palma Mukuyuni tree nursery boasts over 100,000 seedlings, including fruit, forest, and ornamental trees.
According to Mwanza, running a successful tree nursery in Kenya requires careful planning and execution. 'When you learn the ropes, one can make money from the business,' he says.
With the right site, tools, and knowledge, seedling farmers can reap significant profits. Mwanza's nursery, for instance, has orders for 20,000 forest tree seedlings and 25,000 pawpaw seedlings, with prices ranging from Sh40 to Sh250 per seedling.
For those looking to start their own tree nursery, Mwanza advises selecting a site with good access to roads, water, and top soil. He also emphasizes the importance of categorizing the nursery, whether it's private, retail, or wholesale, and understanding the different types of trees and their uses.
Capital investment depends on the size of the nursery and the types of trees being grown. Mwanza sources seeds from certified outlets like the Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI) in Kabete and prepares the soil five months before planting.
With proper care and management, seedlings can be ready for sale in as little as two months, with a profit margin of Sh10 per seedling.
As Mwanza notes, 'If you do it well, tree nursery can earn you good money.' With the right approach, seedling farming can be a lucrative business in Kenya.
