Amaranth sprouts freely as a weed, and continues to gain popularity, especially in Europe, where it has been categorised as a superfood. This annual, fast-growing plant, popular in many rural homes in Kenya, has over 70 species, which are used as vegetables, grains, and to create attractive ornaments. Amaranth is rich in magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, […]
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Dear Reader, As you prepare land for planting, remember it is advantageous to plant early, at the onset of rains as this will lead to better yields. Crops planted early in the season, fully utilize the moisture received from the rains and mature in time for harvesting. Employ techniques that do not leave room for
TOF Magazine February 2021 Issue Read More »
Pumpkins are delicious and versatile fruits. Their sweet flavour, mashy texture and nutritious value make them a favourite for many mothers weaning their babies. The highly nutritious fruit that comes in a variety of colours, is a vine plant in the squash family that produces edible fruit, leaves, and seeds. It can stretch to over
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Using these recipes, almost all types of common garden pests can be taken care of. Liquid dishwashing soap (organically prepared) in most recipes can help the pesticide to stick to the plant and the soil around it. POWDERY MILDEW CONTROL Mildew is rampant when it is cold. Therefore, farmers should ensure that they spray the
SIMPLE HOME-MADE ORGANIC PESTICIDES Read More »
Goats and sheep were the earliest domesticated animals in human history. Goat milk not only fetches a higher price than cow milk, it is also more nutritious.Dairy goat keeping is lucrative for farmers moving away from traditional dairy cow rearing. Currently, Kenya’s dairy sub-sector contributes about eight per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
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Dear Reader, Happy New Year! As you harvest last year’s yields and prepare land to plant for the new season, remember to make the most of crop residue from your harvest, by returning it to enrich your soil. Last year’s short rains were below average, as had been forecast by Kenya Meteorological Department. You can
TOF Magazine January 2021 Issue Read More »
Slugs and snails are cousins in the mollusk family of animals. They live in damp habitats and crawl on the ground eating green vegetables. They enjoy the cool environment of dusk and dawn coming out early in the morning and late in the evening. These pests can be a nuisance on the farm when they
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Most people will throw away the messy remnants from burning firewood, including the ash. It is because they do not know that what they consider as waste can be beneficial in their farms. Ash, especially for an organic farmer, is a very important asset. There are many types of ashes but the ash from wood
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Coriander, also known as dhania or Cilantro, is a multipurpose crop used in cooking in many Kenyan households. Coriander is majorly grown for leaves, but some farmers extend this to produce seeds. Dhania is used to make kachumbari, a popular accompaniment for Kenyan meals or can be chopped up and added to stews, vegetable salads,
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Dear Reader, The year 2020 has not been easy for many farmers, having begun with a locust invasion that left many with huge losses. This was closely followed by the Covid-19 pandemic that continues to threaten the stability of our economy. With most operations paralyzed, schools closed and the rules discouraging public gatherings, the TOF
TOF Magazine December issue Read More »