This archive report was first published on 13 August 2019.
As the semi-arid regions of Nakuru face challenges in vegetable production, local agronomists are advocating for the adoption of inorganic mulching methods among tomato and capsicum farmers.
According to Agronomist Kiplangat Kosgey, inorganic mulching is a cost-effective approach that suits farmers with limited budgets.
Under this method, sheets of plastic paper with a black inner and a white outer coating are laid on well-prepared soil ramps and drip pipes before planting seedlings.
Unlike conventional greenhouses, which require expensive steel for construction, inorganic mulching uses a drip pipe, plastic paper, and a bed of suitable soil to grow crops.
"The concept retains optimal heat in the soil and prevents weeds from growing," Kosgey explained. "A well-mulched garden has the potential to yield up to 50% more than an unmulched garden."
He added that inorganic mulching efficiently helps farmers control large weeds that grow around mulched layers, reducing the need for paid labor or long working hours on tedious weeding exercises.
However, many farmers are still familiar with the traditional organic model, which experts now say is unsustainable due to diminishing organic materials.
Published on August 13, 2019 by KBC.
