This archive report was first published on 31 October 2019.
Is Naivasha Ideal for Ginger Production? ¶
Naivasha, located in Nakuru County, is a suitable location for ginger farming due to its climate and soil conditions. Ginger requires heavy rains followed by a dry spell, which Naivasha receives during the long rains. The area also has fertile and well-drained soils, making it an ideal location for ginger production.
According to Carol Mutua, a horticulturist from Egerton University, ginger does well in areas with an annual rainfall of 1,000-2000mm. The soils should be fertile, well-drained loamy with a pH of 4.5-6.5, free from nematodes and diseases. The optimum temperature for ginger production is 25-30 degrees Celsius.
For ginger seedlings, you can contact Lavington Plant Centre on 0714 080532. Bullet chilli seeds are available at Royal Seed Company, Safari Seeds, and Greenlife Crop Protection Seeds. Bullet chilies do well in warm areas and can grow on a wide range of soils as long as they are deep, fertile, and well-drained.
Thailand chilli, African bird's eye, and bullet chilies can be exported to Germany, Norway, the United Kingdom, France, and most of the European countries. For more information, contact the Horticulture Crop Directorate (HCD) on +254 (20) 2131560 or +254 (20) 2088469.
Avocado farming is also a viable option in Kenya. The site for planting avocados should be free from anthills, level or gentle sloped, and sheltered from strong winds. Land should be properly ploughed and harrowed to remove weeds. It is also advisable to plant maize or sunflower a year before planting the avocados.
For more information on ginger and avocado farming, contact Carol Mutua at the Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soils, Egerton University.
