The higher the demand for organic products, the more the organic market grows By Wanjiku Kimani According to the Kenya Organic Agriculture Network (KOAN), 173,000 hectares of land currently is under organic farming in Kenya. This is a mere 2.9% of the 5.8million hectares of the country’s arable land. Despite the small percentage, organic farming […]
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By Sharon Chebet Compaction is something you can never eliminate in your farm, but you can certainly reduce it. Soil is made up of particles of sand, silt and clay. Healthy soil also contains organic matter. Another very important property of soil is that; it has tiny air spaces between its particles called pores that
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he African Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD) is widespread in Africa and causes up to 90 per cent yield losses. It is caused by cassava mosaic geminiviruses and spreads through infected cuttings, whiteflies (Bemisiatabaci), and occasionally, through farm tools. The disease affects leaves at the vegetative growth stage. Symptoms Leaves become distorted and growth is stunted. It occurs
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The mango, (Mangifera indica Linnaeus) is a popular fruit that is rich in vitamins and essential minerals. It is commonly consumed as a fresh fruit, but can also be processed into powder or pulp. One of the major challenges facing mango farmers is pest infestation which cuts down the yields leading to huge losses. There
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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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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
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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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Use the right beans variety for better yields As the short rains approach, farmers are naturally getting ready to plant. In this Issue, we feature beans varieties suitable for the season. Identifying the right seed The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) has put in place measures to ensure that farmers buy quality seeds. Every
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