Cauliflower farming in Kenya is slowly gaining ground among farmers looking for profitable vegetable ventures. Cauliflower belongs to the cabbage family and produces white curds that are packed with nutrients.
Though not as popular as other vegetables, it has strong demand in high-end markets, especially in supermarkets and specialty groceries.
Farmers in regions such as Kiambu, Kakamega, and Taita Taveta are embracing cauliflower farming due to its high returns when properly managed. With the right conditions and practices, this crop can produce excellent yields.
Cauliflower Farming In Kenya
Cauliflower farming in Kenya requires careful planning, good soils, and the right choice of varieties. Farmers must also consider pests, diseases, and market demand before venturing into the enterprise. With proper management, cauliflower can yield up to 25 tons per hectare, making it a profitable horticultural crop.
Varieties of Cauliflower Grown in Kenya
Kenya has several cauliflower varieties that perform well in different regions. Some of the popular ones include:
Cheddar AGM
Flame Star Hybrid
Graffiti AGM
Kibo Giant
Clapton
Italian Giant
Early Snowball
Fioretto 60
These varieties differ in size, maturity rate, and resistance to diseases. Farmers should consult agricultural experts to choose the right variety for their area to maximize yields.
Ecological and Soil Requirements
Cauliflower grows best in fertile, well-drained soils with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. The soil should also retain enough moisture for the plant to thrive. The ideal altitude is between 1000 and 2000 meters above sea level.
Rainfall of at least 500mm annually is required, although irrigation can be used in dry regions. Farmers should ensure good drainage since cauliflower is sensitive to waterlogging. The best temperature range is 12°C to 28°C, which allows the plant to form healthy white curds.
Planting and Fertiliser Application
Cauliflower is propagated through seeds that are first raised in a nursery and later transplanted after 3 to 4 weeks. Spacing in the nursery bed should be 45 to 60 cm within rows and 60 to 75 cm between rows.
Being a heavy feeder, cauliflower requires high amounts of nitrogen and potassium. Farmers are advised to apply 100kg of nitrogen, 100kg of P₂O₅, and 100kg of K₂O during planting. For topdressing, apply 20g of CAN when plants reach 20 cm in height, followed by 40g of CAN three weeks later.
Weed control is also essential. Farmers should practice shallow cultivation and keep the land as weed-free as possible throughout the growing season.
Pests, Diseases and Harvesting
Cauliflower is prone to pests such as aphids, cutworms, and diamondback moths. Farmers can use recommended insecticides such as polytron to manage these pests.
Common diseases include black rot, dry rot, ring spot, downy mildew, bacterial soft rot, and yellowing disease. These can be controlled through crop rotation, resistant varieties, and maintaining proper field hygiene.
Cauliflower takes 3 to 5 months to mature. Harvesting is done by cutting the heads when they are fully developed and the leaves are still green. It is advisable to leave some leaves attached to protect the curds. On average, a farmer can expect 20 to 25 tons per hectare.
Market Opportunities for Cauliflower in Kenya
Cauliflower has limited demand in the local market since it is not a staple vegetable in Kenyan households. However, high-end markets such as supermarkets, restaurants, and grocery stores present lucrative opportunities.
A kilo of cauliflower can fetch up to Ksh 400 in these outlets. Farmers who target niche markets and urban centers can earn good profits.
