This article focuses on courgette farming in Kenya. Courgette is a green leafy vegetable that is also known as zucchini. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family.
Health Benefits of Courgette
- Courgette contains zeaxanthin and lutein compounds which fight free radicals and aid in improving eye health.
- Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants which play a role in boosting immunity and protecting the body against diseases that may be associated with inflammation.
- Rich in Vitamin C and polyphenols which improve adrenal functions.
- Contains high content of magnesium which plays a major role in reducing the risk of stress and heart attack.
Varieties of Courgette Grown in Kenya
- Simba F1.
- Cera F1.
- Black beauty.
- Ambassador F1.
- Green zucchini.
Ecological Requirements for Growing Courgette
- Temperature range of 15-22°c.
- Altitude of 500- 2000m above sea level.
- Optimum water supply of 800mm during the vegetative growth.
- Fertile and well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5- 7.5.
Land Preparation
Land preparation should be done early enough, about 2 months before planting. This is to allow weeds to fully decompose.
Propagation and Planting
Propagation is by seeds which can be sown directly in the field or first raised in a seedbed and then transplanted after some time. Direct sowing of the seeds is the best method of planting.
Transplanting is done at the 3-4 leaf stage. Seeds germinate within 5-7 days.
During planting, you need to improve nutrient uptake by mixing soil with manure and DAP.
You can plant the seeds in rows at a spacing of 60cm by 60cm and a depth of 2cm.
Farm Management Measures
Irrigation
Irrigation is highly recommended especially in areas with little rainfall. The farm or land should be moist from the planting stage to fruiting.
Weeding
Weeding is very important and should be done regularly. Weeds may lower productivity as competition for nutrients may exist between the weeds and plants. You can use herbicides to eradicate the weeds.
Mulching
Mulching should be done mainly to retain the moisture of the soil.
Pests and Diseases
Common pests that attack courgettes include aphids, cutworms, Epilachna beetles and red spider mites. Diseases include anthracnose, cucurbits, scab, downy mildew, powdery mildew and mosaic.
Proper field hygiene, planting resistant varieties and crop rotation are some of the measures that can be used to manage pests and diseases.
Harvesting
Courgettes develop rapidly and are ready for harvesting after about 2-3 months. Harvesting is done by cutting fruits off the stem leaving a short peduncle of about 2-5cm on the fruit.
The market for Courgette in Kenya
Courgette in Kenya is grown for both the local market and for export. Locally, courgette can be sold in supermarkets, open-air markets, grocery stores or in institutions such as hotels and restaurants.
Worth Check Out:
