By Keziah Otieno
In the sun-scorched area of Machakos County’s Mbuuni, where the earth often seems reluctant to yield, Jackson Chalo has orchestrated a remarkable agricultural journey. His journey into pawpaw farming, particularly with the resilient Malkia variety, is not just a tale of cultivation but a testament to perseverance, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Jackson’s venture into pawpaw farming happened when he met Anthony Musili at a farmers’ forum, and through an insightful magazine, he learned about the revolutionary possibilities of organic farming. Equipped with a copy of the organic farmer magazine and the need for knowledge, Jackson conducted a thorough investigation into pawpaw farming methods specifically designed for dry regions. However, obtaining trustworthy seed sources turned out to be his first obstacle, which he overcame by obtaining the versatile Malkia cultivar from an agrovet.
Key Steps in Cultivating and Caring for Pawpaw Trees:
- Site Selection: Jackson carefully selects sunny locations with well-drained soil for planting pawpaw trees, ensuring optimal growing conditions.
- Planting: He digs holes slightly larger than the root ball of the pawpaw tree and backfills them with soil mixed with organic matter to provide nutrients and promote healthy root development.
- Water Management: Recognizing the challenge of water scarcity, Jackson implements drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to the roots of the trees, minimizing evaporation and ensuring efficient hydration.
- Soil Enrichment: To address poor soil fertility, Jackson incorporates organic matter into the soil and applies balanced fertilizers annually to provide essential nutrients for pawpaw growth.
- Pest and Disease Control: Adopting a holistic, biological approach, Jackson utilizes homemade repellents made from garlic, turmeric, and other natural ingredients to manage pests and diseases such as powdery mildew, anthracnose, and phytophthora.
- Variety Selection: Jackson carefully chooses pawpaw varieties suited to the local climate, opting for the resilient Malkia variety for its adaptability, robust growth, and superior fruit quality.
- Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling: With a practised eye, Jackson determines the perfect moment for harvest based on fruit size, colour, and firmness. Ripe fruits are carefully picked to avoid damage and stored in shaded, cool environments to preserve freshness and quality.
In his pawpaw farm, pest and disease management are integral components of his holistic approach to sustainable agriculture. Understanding the potential threats to his crop and adopting proactive measures are paramount to maintaining a healthy and productive orchard. Here’s a detailed look at Jackson’s approach to pests and disease management in pawpaw farming:
- Preventative Measures-Jackson prioritizes preventative strategies to minimize the risk of pest and disease infestations. This includes maintaining proper hygiene practices within the orchard, such as removing fallen leaves and fruit debris that could harbour pests and pathogens. He also practices crop rotation and intercropping techniques to disrupt pest life cycles and reduce disease pressure.
- Biological Control– Instead of relying solely on chemical pesticides, Jackson emphasizes the use of biological control methods to manage pests. This involves introducing natural predators or beneficial insects that prey on pest populations, effectively keeping their numbers in check. For example, he may release ladybugs to control aphid populations or encourage the presence of birds that feed on caterpillars and other pests.
- Natural Repellents-Jackson creates homemade repellents using ingredients like garlic, chilli peppers, neem oil, and other natural substances known for their pest-repelling properties. These repellents act as a deterrent against common pests without harming beneficial insects or compromising environmental health.
- Disease-resistant Varieties– When selecting pawpaw varieties to cultivate, Jackson prioritizes those with natural resistance or tolerance to common diseases prevalent in his region. By choosing disease-resistant varieties, he reduces the likelihood of disease outbreaks and minimizes the need for chemical interventions.
- Monitoring and Early Detection: Jackson conducts regular monitoring of his pawpaw orchard to detect signs of pest infestation or disease development at the earliest stages. This involves visually inspecting trees for symptoms such as wilting, discolouration, leaf damage, or pest activity. By promptly identifying potential issues, Jackson can implement targeted interventions before they escalate into larger-scale problems.
He also employs a multi-faceted approach to soil fertility and irrigation management to ensure optimal growth and productivity of his pawpaw orchard:
- Soil Enrichment: prioritizes soil health by incorporating organic matter into the soil and applying balanced fertilizers annually. Organic matter, such as compost or manure, enhances soil structure, improves nutrient retention, and fosters beneficial microbial activity, promoting healthy pawpaw growth.
- Balanced Fertilization: To address nutrient deficiencies and maintain soil fertility, Jackson applies balanced fertilizers containing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients support robust root development, vigorous foliage growth, and fruit production in pawpaw trees.
- Drip Irrigation Systems: Recognizing the challenge of water scarcity in his arid environment, Jackson implements drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to the root zone of pawpaw trees. This targeted irrigation method minimizes water wastage, optimizes water uptake by plants, and ensures consistent soil moisture levels essential for optimal growth and fruit development.
- Mulching: Jackson utilizes mulching techniques to conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and moderate soil temperature in his pawpaw orchard. Organic mulch materials, such as straw or wood chips, create a protective layer over the soil surface, reducing water evaporation and minimizing irrigation requirements.
Jackson beside a pawpaw plant.
Jackson has carefully considered various pawpaw varieties before selecting Malkia for his orchard. Here’s a list of some common pawpaw varieties and the reasons why Malkia stands out as the preferred choice:
Solo, Red Royale, Sunrise Solo, Kapoho and Waimanalo.
Why choose Malkia?
Among the diverse pawpaw varieties available, Jackson Chalo has chosen Malkia for several compelling reasons:
- Adaptability: Malkia pawpaws are known for their adaptability to a wide range of environmental conditions, including arid climates like those found in Machakos County. Their resilience makes them well-suited for cultivation in challenging growing environments.
- Robust Growth: Malkia pawpaws exhibit vigorous growth and prolific fruiting, producing abundant yields of high-quality fruit. This trait ensures a consistent harvest and reliable income for farmers like Jackson.
- Disease Resistance: Malkia pawpaws possess natural resistance or tolerance to common diseases prevalent in the region. This reduces the need for chemical interventions and minimizes the risk of crop losses due to pest and disease pressures.
- Fruit Quality: Malkia pawpaws are prized for their excellent fruit quality, characterized by sweet, flavorful flesh and attractive appearance. Their superior taste and texture make them highly desirable in both local and export markets.
- Market Demand: Malkia pawpaws are in high demand among consumers due to their exceptional flavor and nutritional value. Jackson’s decision to cultivate Malkia aligns with market preferences and enhances the commercial viability of his pawpaw farm.
Determining the optimal time for pawpaw harvest and ensuring post-harvest quality and freshness are critical steps in Jackson Chalo’s pawpaw farming practices. Here’s how he accomplishes these tasks:
Determining Pawpaw Ripeness for Harvest:
- Visual Inspection: Jackson visually inspects pawpaw fruits for signs of ripeness, including changes in skin colour from green to yellow or orange, depending on the variety. Ripe pawpaws often develop a uniform colouration and may exhibit slight softening of the skin.
- Fruit Firmness: He gently applies pressure to the fruit’s surface to assess firmness. Ripe pawpaws yield slightly to pressure and feel soft to the touch, indicating maturity. However, they should not be overly soft or mushy, as this may indicate overripeness.
- Fruit Size: Mature pawpaws typically reach their full size at harvest. Jackson compares the size of the fruit to the standard size for the specific variety being cultivated to determine readiness for harvest.
Ensuring Post-Harvest Quality and Freshness:
- Gentle Handling: Jackson employs careful handling practices during harvest to minimize bruising and damage to the fruit. He uses sharp pruning shears or a knife to cut the fruit from the tree, avoiding excessive pressure that could cause injury.
- Immediate Cooling: After harvest, Jackson promptly cools the pawpaw fruits to slow down the ripening process and preserve freshness. He places the harvested fruits in shaded, well-ventilated areas facilities to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels.
- Storage Conditions: Jackson stores pawpaw fruits in clean, dry containers or packaging to prevent contamination and moisture buildup. He avoids stacking or overcrowding the fruits to allow for adequate air circulation and minimize physical damage.
- Packaging and Transportation: When transporting pawpaw fruits to markets or distribution centres, Jackson uses sturdy packaging materials to protect them from physical damage and exposure to environmental factors. He ensures that the fruits are handled with care during transportation to preserve their freshness and appeal.
Jackson employs a multi-faceted approach to market and sell his pawpaw produce, leveraging various channels and strategies to reach consumers and maximize sales. Here’s an overview of his marketing and sales techniques:
- Local Market Sales: Jackson taps into the local market by selling his pawpaw produce directly to consumers through farmer’s markets, roadside stands, and community events. By establishing a presence in the local community, he can build relationships with customers, showcase the quality of his produce, and generate steady sales.
- Online Platforms: Jackson embraces digital marketing and e-commerce platforms to expand his reach and connect with consumers beyond his local area. He utilizes social media channels, online marketplaces, and e-commerce websites to promote his pawpaw produce, showcase farm activities, and engage with customers directly.
- Farm-to-Table Initiatives: Jackson participates in farm-to-table initiatives and agritourism activities to offer unique experiences to consumers. He may host farm tours, tasting events, or on-farm sales where customers can visit his orchard, learn about pawpaw cultivation, and purchase freshly harvested fruits directly from the source.
- Value-Added Products: To diversify his product offerings and add value to his pawpaw produce, Jackson explores opportunities for processing and value-added product development. He may produce pawpaw jams, jellies, juices, or dried fruit snacks, catering to different consumer preferences and expanding market opportunities.
- Customer Engagement: Jackson prioritizes customer engagement and feedback to build loyalty and foster repeat business. He solicits customer reviews, conducts surveys, and responds promptly to inquiries and concerns, demonstrating a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.
Pawpaw peels, often overlooked as waste, possess numerous potential uses and applications, showcasing their versatility and value beyond the fruit itself. Here are several innovative ways in which pawpaw peels can be utilized:
- Natural Fertilizer: Pawpaw peels are rich in organic matter, nutrients, and enzymes, making them an excellent source of natural fertilizer for plants. When composted or decomposed, pawpaw peels enrich the soil with essential nutrients, improve soil structure, and enhance microbial activity, promoting healthy plant growth and productivity.
- Livestock Feed: Dried and ground pawpaw peels can serve as supplementary feed for livestock, including cattle, goats, and poultry. The nutrient-rich peels provide dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to balanced nutrition and improved animal health. Incorporating pawpaw peels into livestock feed can reduce feed costs and enhance the nutritional value of the diet.
- Natural Pest Repellent: Pawpaw peels contain compounds with natural insect-repellent properties, making them effective as a non-toxic pest control solution in gardens and agricultural settings. Placing fresh or dried pawpaw peels around plants or garden beds can deter pests such as aphids, ants, and caterpillars, protecting crops from damage without the need for chemical pesticides.
- Skin Care: Pawpaw peels are rich in enzymes, antioxidants, and vitamins that benefit skin health and rejuvenation. Applying mashed pawpaw peels as a natural face mask or scrub can help exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed. Pawpaw peel extract is also used in some cosmetic products for its skin-brightening and anti-aging properties.
- Biogas Production: Pawpaw peels are a potential feedstock for biogas production through anaerobic digestion. When fermented in biogas digesters, pawpaw peels produce methane gas, which can be used as a renewable energy source for cooking, heating, or electricity generation. Biogas production from pawpaw peels offers an environmentally friendly way to manage organic waste and generate clean energy.
In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, innovative techniques and technologies continue to emerge, offering new possibilities for enhancing pawpaw farming practices. Here are several cutting-edge approaches and technologies that Jackson considers exploring in his pawpaw orchard:
- Precision Agriculture: Utilizing precision agriculture technologies, such as remote sensing, drones, and satellite imagery to gather real-time data on soil moisture levels, nutrient status, and crop health. This information allows for precise and targeted application of inputs, optimizing resource use, and maximizing pawpaw yield and quality.
- Protected Cultivation: Greenhouse and high-tunnel structures offer controlled growing environments that protect pawpaw plants from adverse weather conditions, pests, and diseases. Jackson plans to explore the use of climate-controlled structures to extend the growing season, increase yield consistency, and produce high-quality pawpaw fruits with minimal environmental impact.
- Smart Irrigation Systems: Automated irrigation systems equipped with soil moisture sensors, weather forecasts, and evapotranspiration data enable Jackson to optimize irrigation scheduling and water application rates based on plant needs and environmental conditions. Smart irrigation technologies conserve water, improve water use efficiency, and mitigate drought stress in pawpaw plants, enhancing overall farm sustainability.
- Genomic Selection: Advancements in genetic technologies and genomic selection techniques allow for the identification and breeding of pawpaw varieties with desirable traits, such as disease resistance, fruit quality, and yield potential. Jackson can collaborate with plant breeders and research institutions to develop improved pawpaw cultivars tailored to local growing conditions and market preferences.
Visual inspection of the pawpaw plant
Keziah Otieno is an office assistant at Biovision Africa Trust. Reach out to her via kotieno@biovisionafricatrust.org