“As a farmer ensure you get quality vaccinated day old chicks from reputable farmer or well established hatchery” By Vivian Machanury RAISING DAY OLD chicks is a challenge to many farmers. Day old chicks are very delicate and require utmost care for them to survive. As a farmer ensure you get quality vaccinated day-old chicks […]
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By Miriam Makato POULTRY FARMING HAS gained popularity in Kenya due to the ease in management and fast returns, as compared to other livestock enterprises such as dairy cattle keeping. However, this sector has faced a major challenge-an increase in feed prices, which has caused small scale farmers to reduce the number of birds kept
Farmer Supplements Poultry Feed And Earns Some Income From Azolla Farming Read More »
By David Njenga Fodder legumes play an important role in the smallholder farmers’ dairy farming system as they improve soil fertility through Nitrogen fixation and have high Crude Protein (CP) in leaves and foliage and they can replace commercial supplements. Crude Protein range for legumes is 15-35%, compared to grasses whose CP ranges between 5
Top Fodder Legumes for Boosting Dairy Cattle Productivity Read More »
There are various agricultural residues that are produced in both small- and large-scale farms. In Kenya, most of the farm left overs includes; rice straw, rice husks, maize copes (corn stover) and wheat straws. The residues in many farms are used as fodder for animals, landfill or others will end up being burnt during land
RESIDUE RETENTION: ENRICHING YOUR SOIL FOR THE NEXT PLANTING SEASON Read More »
Forage grasses to grow for your dairy cattle By David Njenga Cultivating forage crops on the farm is a cost-effective approach for feeding dairy cattle as feeding cost constitute about 70-80% of the cost of production. There are different varieties of fodder crops and this article focuses on grasses that farmers can grow highlighting optimal
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By Grace Kinyanjui Maize is targeted by several pests, which cause significant yield losses. The most damaging pests are the caterpillars (larvae) of Fall armyworm and other night-flying moths such as African armyworm, cutworms, and African maize stalk borer. Other important pests include spotted stem borers, maize beetles, earworms, leafhoppers (vectors of maize streak virus),
Principles of agroecological management of maize pests Read More »
By Dr Ann Wachira Newcastle disease (ND) affects birds globally, and chicken are particularly vulnerable. It is caused by a virus called avian paramyxovirus serotype type 1 (APMV-1). There are five types of APMV-1 strains, which are categorized based on their strength in chicken: a) strong and affecting organs (viscerotropic velogenic), b) strong and affecting
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All about housing, feeding and disease management in chicks. By Dr Ann M. Wachira Choosing proper chick housing Providing suitable housing for your chicks is a crucial step in ensuring their well-being. A well-designed chick shelter safeguards them from various threats, including adverse weather conditions such as rain, sun, cold winds, and chilly night-time temperatures.
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By Faith Maiyo Introduction Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) is from Stratiomyidae family in the Diptera order. It is one of the most beneficial and most widespread form of insect farming in the world. The larvae are an excellent source of food for many animals like poultry, bait for fish and pigs. At different stages
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By Dr Ann M. Wachira Selecting healthy day-old chicks is crucial for a thriving poultry farm. Begin by locating a reputable hatchery or supplier recognized for their high-quality chicks. Seek advice from local livestock professionals or poultry farmer associations. When inspecting the chicks, ensure they have bright eyes, clean beaks, and clean, fluffy feathers. Avoid
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