This article focuses on lentils farming in Kenya. Lentils are locally known as kamande. They are highly nutritious legumes that grow best in hot areas.
Areas such as Siaya, Wajir, Garissa, Ukambani, Kisumu, Kajiado and the Coastal region are ideal for growing lentils.
Varieties Grown in Kenya
- Brown lentils.
- Yellow and red lentils.
- Green lentils.
- Black lentils.
Ecological Requirements for Growing Lentils
- 6 hours of sunshine daily.
- Loose and well- drained soil with a pH of 6.0- 6.5.
- Ideal temperature of 25°c- 35°c.
Land Preparation
Land should be well ploughed early enough before planting. It should be prepared to have fine soil due to the tiny nature of lentil seeds.
Planting
Lentils are propagated by seeds. Planting should be done during the onset of rains.
Drill lines between 1-2 inches deep with a spacing of 45cm between the lines. Sow the lentil seeds in the lines at a spacing of 1 inch from each other then cover them with one inch of soil. The seeds should not be too close to each other.
About 12-15 kgs of seeds are enough for an acre. The seeds start germinating after 10 days.
Pests and Diseases
Lentils are susceptible to pests such as aphids, thrips and worms. They can be controlled using recommended pesticides and practising crop rotation.
Since lentils thrive in low humidity, they are not easily attacked by diseases. However, they may be attacked by root rot, blight and white mould. To control the diseases, simply pinch out the affected areas.
Harvesting
Lentils take about 80 days to be ready for harvesting. They can be harvested once the pods turn brown and dry.
Averagely, an acre of land can yield 600-800 kgs of lentils.
The Market for Lentils in Kenya
Lentils are highly nutritious legumes that fetch good prices in the local markets. A kilo is sold at between Kshs 200-350 depending on the season.
They are mainly sold in grocery stores, supermarkets and local mama mboga stalls.
