This article focuses on rosemary farming in Kenya. Rosemary is a hardy and evergreen plant that is commonly used as a food flavouring agent. It can also be used for medicinal purposes and in making cosmetics.
Rosemary Growing Areas in Kenya
Rosemary is a hardy plant that grows best in semi-arid areas such as parts of Eastern, Rift Valley, Northern Kenya and the Coastal region.
Varieties Of Rosemary Grown in Kenya
(i). Tuscan Blue
This variety can grow to a height of about 6 feet. It is characterised by dark green leaves and blue flowers.
(ii). Salem
It is also characterised by dark green leaves and blue flowers. It is a slow grower and best grown in small gardens.
(iii). Arp
The Arp variety has pale blue flowers and grey-green leaves. It is a hardy variety compared to the rest.
(iv). Barbeque
It is also characterised by blue flowers and dark green leaves.
Ecological Requirements
- Full exposure to sunlight, 6-8 hours daily.
- Altitude between 0-2000m above sea level.
- Well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0- 7.0.
- Moderate rainfall/ water during the growth stage.
- Ideal temperature of 20°c and 15°c- 30°c for optimal growth.
Land Preparation
The first step is to determine soil pH and nutrient level by conducting a soil test. This can be conducted through the help of a soil testing company.
Once the soil test has been done, you can proceed to prepare your land by clearing any weeds and levelling it. Also ensure that the land is well drained so as to prevent waterlogging which may cause diseases such as root rot.
Apply well-decomposed organic manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
Planting
Rosemary can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. The most ideal propagation method is by using cuttings.
(i). Propagation by stem cuttings
The cuttings can be obtained from healthy and mature rosemary plants. They should be about 4-6 inches long.
Before planting, dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder. This is done to promote proper root development.
You can then plant the cuttings in a pot or container with moist soil.
Roots will develop after 2-3 weeks. You can then transplant it into the garden. Alternatively, you can directly plant the cuttings in the field or garden.
(ii). Propagation by seeds
Choose a suitable seed variety that can thrive in your climate. The seeds can be first sown in a pot or container and then later transplanted to the open field after 2-3 weeks once the seedlings have developed a set of leaves.
Pests and Diseases
Rosemary is a hardy plant that is not easily attacked by pests and diseases. Pests that can attack the plant include aphids, mites and thrips while diseases include root rot and powdery mildew.
The pests and diseases can be controlled by practising proper sanitation, planting resistant varieties and crop rotation.
Harvesting
Harvesting can begin at the flowering stage. On average, an acre of land can yield 4 tones.
The Market for Rosemary in Kenya
Rosemary has a wide market in Kenya due to its numerous uses. This ranges from pharmaceutical companies, food & beverage industries to manufacturers of cosmetics.
It can be sold when still fresh, dried or in a processed form.
