This article focuses on cauliflower farming in Kenya. Cauliflower is a vegetable that forms white curds and resembles a cabbage. It is a very nutritious vegetable that is widely grown in Kiambu and other parts of the country such as Kakamega and Taita Taveta.
Varieties of Cauliflower Grown in Kenya
- Cheddar AGM
- Flame Star Hybrid
- Graffiti AGM
- Kibo Giant
- Clapton
- Italian Giant
- Early Snowball
- Fioretto 60
Ecological Conditions for Growing Cauliflower
- Fertile and well-drained soil with pH of 6.0- 6.5 and high holding capacity of moisture.
- Altitude of between 1000 to 2000m above sea level.
- Rainfall of 500mm per annum.
- Good drainage as cauliflower is very sensitive to water logging.
- Temperature range of 12- 28°c.
Propagation and Planting
Cauliflower is propagated by seeds which are first raised in a nursery and then later transplanted after about 3-4 weeks.
The recommended spacing in the nursery bed is 45- 60 cm within rows and 60- 75 cm apart.
Fertiliser Application
Cauliflower is a heavy feeder of potassium and nitrogen. Therefore, apply 100kg of nitrogen, 100kg of p205 and 100kg of K20 during planting.
During topdressing, you can apply 20g of CAN once the plant reaches a height of 20cm. After about 3 weeks, apply 40g of CAN.
Weed Management
Weed management is very important for the proper production of cauliflower. The land or farm should be weed free as possible during the entire growing period. Shallow cultivation can be practised to eradicate the weeds.
Pests and Diseases Management
Common pests that attack cauliflower include aphids, cutworms and diamondback moths. To eradicate the pests, you can use recommended insecticides such as polytron.
Common diseases include ring sport, black rot, dry rot, bacteria soft rot, yellowing disease and downy mildew. The diseases can be managed through crop rotation, proper field hygiene and planting resistant varieties as may be recommended by experts.
Harvesting
Cauliflower takes about 3-5 months to mature and be ready for harvesting. Harvesting can be done by cutting the cauliflower heads when fully developed and when the leaves are still green. A set of leaves should be left attached for the purpose of protecting the curds.
Yield per hectare ranges from 20-25 tons.
Market for Cauliflower in Kenya
Cauliflower is not a popular vegetable in Kenya. This means the demand is low in the domestic market. The best market is the high-end market, especially in high-end supermarkets and groceries where a kilo goes for Kshs 400.
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