This archive report was first published on 24 October 2019.
Kenya's climate is suitable for growing a variety of crops, including watermelon and chia. Watermelon is a warm-season crop that requires water in the first few weeks of growth, but irrigation should stop when it starts producing fruits. This allows the crop to develop and increases the sugar content and concentration in the fruit, making it sweeter.
There are several watermelon varieties in Kenya, each with its unique characteristics. Sukari F1 is the most widely grown variety, maturing between 80 to 90 days. It has an oblong shape, weighing seven to eight kilogrammes, with a light green rind and dark green stripes. The flesh is red, crispy, and firm.
Another popular variety is Asali F1, which takes a minimum of 85 days to mature. It has a green rind with strips of green and dark green running down its sides. The fruit is large, weighing eight to 10 kilogrammes, and has a sweet red flesh. This variety has a high yield potential of up to 40 tonnes per acre and is resistant to anthracnose and fusarium wilt.
For chia farming, seeds are directly planted on the farm, and no seedbed is necessary. Chia is a crop that is resistant to pests and diseases, making it an ideal choice for farmers who want to avoid using pesticides or inorganic fertilizers. The crop takes three months to mature, and the demand for chia seeds is increasing due to its immense health and nutritional value.
When it comes to pumpkin varieties, there are many options available in Kenya. Some popular varieties include Jack-Be-Little, Baby Boo, Jarrahdale, Wee-Be-Little, Sweet Sugar Pie, Casper, Blue Doll, Cinderella, Harvest Jack, Howden, Peanut, and Red Warty Thing. These varieties come in different shapes, sizes, and colors and can be grown in most parts of the country.
