6 PASSION FUIT 6.12o – PLANT FACTS 6 VARIETIES

 
ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY
6 PASSION FUIT 6.12o – PLANT FACTS 6 VARIETIES

 
he A-Z of growing passion fruits to harvest 15 tons from every hectare
Passion fruit, a climbing vine, is a versatile crop whose demand is growing in both export and domestic markets.
The fruit can be eaten fresh or consumed after extracting the pulp and making juice.
The juice is used in a variety of products and the pulp may be added to different dishes. A wide range of cosmetic products and food flavours are derived from the fruit that is rich in Vitamins A and C and carotene.
Varieties
Yellow and purple types exist. Purple varieties do better at higher altitudes than the yellow types. Yellow types, on the other hand, tend to yield higher and are more resistant to diseases.
The purple variety is acidic, varies in taste and juiciness with intense aromatic scent and round in shape. The yellow variety is bigger, with similar taste but possibly less aromatic, more acidic and is also round in shape.
Both varieties are green before ripening, and they are grown for commercial and domestic purposes.
 
KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 PASSION FUIT 6.12o – UKWELI WA MIMEA AINA 6
The A-Z ya kupanda matunda ya passion ili kuvuna tani 15 kutoka kwa kila hekta
Matunda ya Passion, mzabibu unaopanda, ni zao lenye matumizi mengi ambalo mahitaji yake yanaongezeka katika soko la nje na la ndani.
Tunda linaweza kuliwa likiwa mbichi au kuliwa baada ya kukamua massa na kutengeneza juisi.
Juisi hutumiwa katika bidhaa mbalimbali na kunde kunaweza kuongezwa kwa sahani tofauti. Bidhaa mbalimbali za vipodozi na ladha za chakula zinatokana na matunda yenye vitamini A na C na carotene.
Aina mbalimbali
Kuna aina za manjano na zambarau. Aina za zambarau hufanya vizuri zaidi katika mwinuko wa juu kuliko aina za njano. Aina za njano, kwa upande mwingine, huwa na mavuno ya juu na ni sugu zaidi kwa magonjwa.
Aina ya zambarau ni tindikali, inatofautiana katika ladha na juiciness na harufu kali ya kunukia na sura ya pande zote. Aina ya manjano ni kubwa zaidi, yenye ladha inayofanana lakini pengine haina harufu nzuri, yenye asidi zaidi na pia ina umbo la duara.
Aina zote mbili ni za kijani kabla ya kukomaa, na hupandwa kwa madhumuni ya kibiashara na ya nyumbani.

6 PASSION FUIT 6.121 – GROWING & SOIL

 
ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY
6 PASSION FUIT 6.121 – GROWING & SOIL

 
Ecological requirements
Passion fruits do well in a wide range of altitudes from 1,200m to 1,800m above sea level East of the Rift Valley and up to 2,000m above sea level West of the Rift valley.
Optimum temperature for purple passion fruit is between 18° C to 25° C and 25° C to 30° C for yellow passion fruit while the rainfall should be well-distributed, between 900 mm to 2,000 mm per year.

Excess rainfall causes poor fruit set and encourages diseases mainly leaf and fruit rusts. For good production, passion fruits do well in a variety of soils, which should be reasonably deep and fertile with soil pH ranging between 6.0 and 6.5.
In high rainfall areas, the soils should be well-drained as plants will not withstand waterlogging or flooding. Some passion fruit enterprises that were doing well in Uasin Gishu County some five years ago collapsed because of soil acidity (pH < 5.0), which reduces nutrient uptake and accelerates Fusarium wilt disease that causes rotting of roots and stems finally drying of the whole plant. Farmers are encouraged to apply manure and lime in the holes and whole field to reduce the soil acidity effects.

Planting and trellising
Passion fruit can be grown from seeds but grafting often produces improved stock. Yellow passion fruit is best for production of rootstock because of superior disease resistance while purple is good for fruit production.
Seeds germinate in four weeks after removal of the pulp and drying. Production of seedlings in plastic bags is the most used method.
Up to three seeds are planted in each bag and then thinned to one after emergence. Seedlings will require up to four months to reach a suitable transplanting growth stage. After about seven weeks of growth following transplanting, each plant should have up to four healthy lateral stems.
Transplanting should be done at the beginning of the rainy season around April-June. Passion fruit has deep roots, so soils should be well-tilled. Transplant to a field with posts having wire trellis to support the growing crop and fruits produced.
The vines are usually directed so that growth is in both directions along the supporting wires. Yields are highest following a regular fertilization regime. Old or dead shoots should be pruned. Intercropping with vegetables or other annuals is recommended to utilize free space especially when the crop is young.
Once established, the vines grow rapidly and the fruit should flower after about seven months. Ideally, young passion vines should be set in the field early in the growing season after there is no danger of drought.

Passion vines are planted 2m from one row to the other and 3m from one plant to the other. Horizontal trellises have cross-pieces at the top of each post with two to four wires strung horizontally 60cm apart along the top of each cross-piece.
Vertical trellises consist of heavy posts without cross-pieces, with two to three wires strung along the row like barbed wire fencing, attached to the posts from the top down at intervals of about 30-40cm apart.
Trellis wires should be size 9 or 10 galvanized steel. The posts need to be stout enough to withstand the weight of the vines and fruits produced throughout a season that normally includes the buffeting of strong winds. Ideally, they should be long enough to provide a trellis height of 1.5m, with 45-75 cm in the ground. Trellis rows should be oriented north-south for maximum exposure to sunlight, and the vines should be allowed to grow together along the trellises to promote cross-pollination

.
KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 PASSION FUIT 6.121 - KUKUZA & UDONGO
 
Mahitaji ya kiikolojia
Matunda ya Passion hufanya vizuri katika miinuko mingi kutoka 1,200m hadi 1,800m juu ya usawa wa bahari Mashariki ya Bonde la Ufa na hadi 2,000m juu ya usawa wa bahari Magharibi mwa bonde la Ufa.
Joto bora zaidi kwa tunda la zambarau la passion ni kati ya 18° C hadi 25° C na 25° C hadi 30° C kwa tunda la passion ya manjano wakati mvua inapaswa kusambazwa vizuri, kati ya 900 mm hadi 2,000 mm kwa mwaka.
Mvua nyingi husababisha mkusanyiko duni wa matunda na huchochea magonjwa hasa kutu ya majani na matunda. Kwa uzalishaji mzuri, matunda ya passion hufanya vyema katika aina mbalimbali za udongo, ambao unapaswa kuwa na kina kirefu na chenye rutuba na pH ya udongo kati ya 6.0 na 6.5.
Katika maeneo yenye mvua nyingi, udongo unapaswa kuwa na unyevu wa kutosha kwani mimea haitastahimili mafuriko au mafuriko. Baadhi ya biashara za matunda aina ya passion ambazo zilikuwa zikifanya vyema katika Kaunti ya Uasin Gishu miaka mitano iliyopita zilianguka kwa sababu ya asidi ya udongo (pH <5.0), ambayo hupunguza uchukuaji wa virutubishi na kuharakisha ugonjwa wa mnyauko Fusarium ambao husababisha kuoza kwa mizizi na shina hatimaye kukauka kwa mmea wote. Wakulima wanahimizwa kuweka samadi na chokaa kwenye mashimo na shamba zima ili kupunguza athari za asidi ya udongo.
Kupanda na trellising
Matunda ya Passion yanaweza kukuzwa kutoka kwa mbegu lakini kupandikiza mara nyingi hutoa hisa iliyoboreshwa. Tunda la passion ya manjano ni bora zaidi kwa uzalishaji wa vizizi kwa sababu ya upinzani bora wa magonjwa wakati zambarau ni nzuri kwa uzalishaji wa matunda.
Mbegu huota katika wiki nne baada ya kuondolewa kwa massa na kukausha. Uzalishaji wa miche kwenye mifuko ya plastiki ndiyo njia inayotumika zaidi.
Hadi mbegu tatu hupandwa katika kila mfuko na kisha kupunguzwa hadi moja baada ya kuota. Miche itahitaji hadi miezi minne kufikia hatua inayofaa ya ukuaji wa kupandikiza. Baada ya takriban wiki saba za ukuaji baada ya kupandikiza, kila mmea unapaswa kuwa na hadi mashina manne ya upande yenye afya.
Kupandikiza inapaswa kufanywa mwanzoni mwa msimu wa mvua karibu Aprili-Juni. Matunda ya mateso yana mizizi ya kina, kwa hivyo udongo unapaswa kulimwa vizuri. Pandikiza kwenye shamba lenye nguzo zenye wire trellis ili kusaidia mazao yanayokua na matunda yanayozalishwa.
Mizabibu kawaida huelekezwa ili ukuaji uwe katika pande zote mbili kando ya waya zinazounga mkono. Mavuno ni ya juu zaidi kufuatia utaratibu wa kawaida wa mbolea. Shina za zamani au zilizokufa zinapaswa kukatwa. Kupanda mseto na mboga mboga au mimea mingine ya kila mwaka inashauriwa kutumia nafasi ya bure hasa wakati mazao yakiwa machanga.
Baada ya kuanzishwa, mizabibu hukua haraka na matunda yanapaswa kuchanua baada ya miezi saba. Kimsingi, mizabibu michanga ya shauku inapaswa kuwekwa shambani mapema katika msimu wa ukuaji baada ya kutokuwa na hatari ya ukame.
Mizabibu ya mateso hupandwa 2m kutoka mstari mmoja hadi mwingine na 3m kutoka mmea mmoja hadi mwingine. Miteremko ya mlalo ina vipande-pande juu ya kila nguzo na nyaya mbili hadi nne zilizounganishwa kwa mlalo 60cm kando ya sehemu ya juu ya kila kipande cha msalaba.
Miteremko ya wima ina nguzo nzito zisizo na vipande vya kuvuka, na nyaya mbili hadi tatu zilizofungwa kando ya safu kama uzio wa nyaya zenye miiba, zikiwa zimeunganishwa kwenye nguzo kutoka juu kwenda chini kwa vipindi vya umbali wa 30-40cm.
Waya za trellis zinapaswa kuwa za ukubwa wa 9 au 10 za mabati. Machapisho yanahitaji kuwa magumu vya kutosha kustahimili uzito wa mizabibu na matunda yanayozalishwa katika msimu mzima ambayo kwa kawaida hujumuisha kupigwa na upepo mkali. Kwa kweli, zinapaswa kuwa na urefu wa kutosha kutoa urefu wa trelli ya 1.5m, na cm 45-75 ardhini. Safu za trellis zinapaswa kuelekezwa kaskazini-kusini kwa mwangaza wa juu zaidi wa jua, na mizabibu inapaswa kuruhusiwa kukua pamoja kando ya trellis ili kukuza uchavushaji mtambuka.

6 PASSION FUIT 6.122 – FERTILIZER & HARVEST

 
ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY
6 PASSION FUIT 6.122 – FERTILIZER & HARVEST

 
Fertiliser application
At planting, use MORGANICS SEAWEED and farmyard manure. To obtain high yields, regular organic fertilisation is necessary.
Apply 300g of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) per plant per year in two applications of 150g each during rainy season. Spraying with ORGANIC SEAWEAD is also recommended.

Crop protection
Weeding is essential when the plants are first transplanted. Disease is usually sufficiently controlled by crop rotation as plantations are not kept for more than three years.
Infected plant material should be pruned and destroyed and vines kept as open as possible to allow thorough application of sprays. Diseases can also be controlled by combination of good management, good orchard hygiene, and a suitable spray programme.
Pests lower fruit quality and should be controlled by regularly checking the areas around the orchard for signs of build-up. If necessary, spray to control the pests before they spread to the crop.

Harvest
When ready for harvesting, the skin of the fruit is deep purple or yellow. Its pulpy interior is bright yellow, filled with small black seeds. For fresh market or use, the fruit is picked when colour changes occur.
For processing, the fruit is allowed to drop to the ground and picked at least every second day. At this stage, the fruit is shrivelled but quite suitable for processing. Yields decline each year until harvests are not adequate in the four year.

Yields
Yields of over 15-20 tonnes/ha are attainable.
 
KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 SASSION FUIT 6.122 – MBOLEA NA MAVUNO
 
Uwekaji mbolea
Wakati wa kupanda, tumia MORGANICS SEAWEED na samadi ya shambani. Ili kupata mavuno mengi, mbolea ya kikaboni ya kawaida ni muhimu.
Weka 300g ya Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) kwa mmea kwa mwaka katika matumizi mawili ya 150g kila msimu wa mvua. Kunyunyizia na ORGANIC SEAWEAD pia kunapendekezwa
Ulinzi wa mazao
Palizi ni muhimu wakati mimea inapandikizwa kwanza. Ugonjwa kawaida hudhibitiwa vya kutosha kwa mzunguko wa mazao kwani mashamba hayatunzwe kwa zaidi ya miaka mitatu.
Nyenzo za mmea zilizoambukizwa zinapaswa kupogolewa na kuharibiwa na mizabibu iwekwe wazi iwezekanavyo ili kuruhusu uwekaji kamili wa dawa. Magonjwa pia yanaweza kudhibitiwa kwa mchanganyiko wa usimamizi mzuri, usafi mzuri wa bustani, na programu inayofaa ya dawa.
Wadudu hupunguza ubora wa matunda na wanapaswa kudhibitiwa kwa kuangalia mara kwa mara maeneo karibu na bustani kwa dalili za kuongezeka. Ikibidi, nyunyiza ili kudhibiti wadudu kabla ya kuenea kwenye mazao
Mavuno
Wakati tayari kwa kuvuna, ngozi ya matunda ni ya rangi ya zambarau au ya njano. Sehemu yake ya ndani ya pulpy ni manjano mkali, iliyojaa mbegu ndogo nyeusi. Kwa soko au matumizi mapya, matunda huchukuliwa wakati mabadiliko ya rangi yanapotokea.
Kwa usindikaji, matunda yanaruhusiwa kushuka chini na kuchujwa angalau kila siku ya pili. Katika hatua hii, matunda yamekauka lakini yanafaa kabisa kusindika. Mavuno hupungua kila mwaka hadi mavuno hayatoshi katika miaka minne.
Mazao
Mavuno ya zaidi ya tani 15-20 kwa hekta yanaweza kupatikana.

6 SPRING GARDEN 6.92 - PLANNING INFORMATION

 

 
ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY
6 SPRING GARDEN 6.92 - PLANNING INFORMATION

 
This planting info can help you when you are setting up Spring Planting Schedule. When to plant depends on your Growing Zone, but I have listed temperature ranges and days before.
 
PLANTING COOL SEASON VEGGIES
Cool-season vegetables grow best when temperatures range between 5 degrees C and 25  degrees C. In most areas, they can be planted outside 2 - 4 weeks before your last Spring cold date. These Veggies often are those that develop edible roots, stems, leaves, or buds, such as potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, radish, cabbage, asparagus, onion, beets, mustard, peas, turnips, lettuce and spinach.
Cool-season vegetables are different in that their seeds germinate best in cool soil. They are usually planted as soon as the soil can be worked in Spring. Avoid planting in soggy soil that is still full of moisture from snow or spring rains. Wait until the soil dries and can be cultivated.
The root systems of cool-season plants are shallower and the plants themselves are smaller than warm-season vegetable plants. They stop producing in early summer when temperatures get above 30 degrees C. In regions where nights remain cool, you can sow cool-season vegetables every two weeks for a continual harvest that extends into Fall; also called succession planting.
In warmer regions, plant cool-season vegetables as early as possible in late Winter or early Spring, and plant seeds or transplants again in late fall to harvest in winter.
A few cold-hardy vegetables, such as carrots, kale, parsnips, and garlic, can survive throughout winter in some regions.
You can purchase a soil thermometer to help you know when to plant cool-season vegetables.
** At a soil temperature of 5 degrees C, plant arugula, fava beans, kale, lettuces, parsnips, peas, radicchio, radishes, and spinach.
** At a soil temperature of 10 degrees C, plant Chinese cabbage, leeks, onions, Swiss chard, and turnips.
** At a soil temperature of 15 degrees C, plant beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, and cauliflower.
 
PLANTING WARM SEASON VEGGIES
Warm-season vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, corn, and okra, developed in tropical climates. They grow edible fruits instead of edible roots, stems, leaves, or buds, as cool-season crops do. These tender Veggies are killed by cold weather and won't perform well if temperatures drop below 10 degrees C. Don't bother to plant before the soil and air temperatures have warmed up in Spring or early Summer because the seeds and plants simply won't grow. Wait until about two weeks after the average cold date for your region to plant warm-season crops.
Warm-season crops can be planted indoors 4 - 6 weeks before your last cold days, and then transplanted in Garden after it starts warming up. An early start inside gives them a jump on the growing season, but remember to slowly acclimate them to outdoor life by placing them in shade instead of full sun, and allowing them to adjust in short periods to outdoor temperatures. They call this hardening. These vegetables do best during the warmth of summer: artichokes, beans, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, melons, okra, peanuts, peppers, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatillos, and tomatoes.
 
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KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 SPRING GARDEN 6.92 - MAELEZO YA MIPANGO
 
Maelezo haya ya upandaji yanaweza kukusaidia unapoweka Ratiba ya Upandaji wa Majira ya kuchipua. Wakati wa kupanda hutegemea Eneo lako la Kukua, lakini nimeorodhesha viwango vya joto na siku zilizopita.
 
KUPANDA MBOGA ZA MSIMU WA BARIDI
Mboga za msimu wa baridi hukua vyema zaidi halijoto inapofikia kati ya nyuzi joto 5 na nyuzi joto 25 C. Katika maeneo mengi, zinaweza kupandwa nje ya wiki 2 - 4 kabla ya tarehe yako ya mwisho ya baridi ya Majira ya kuchipua. Mboga hizi mara nyingi ni zile zinazokuza mizizi, mashina, majani, au buds, kama vile viazi, broccoli, cauliflower, radish, kabichi, avokado, vitunguu, beets, haradali, mbaazi, turnips, lettuce na mchicha.
Mboga za msimu wa baridi ni tofauti kwa kuwa mbegu zao huota vyema kwenye udongo baridi. Kwa kawaida hupandwa mara tu udongo unaweza kufanya kazi katika Spring. Epuka kupanda kwenye udongo wenye unyevunyevu ambao bado umejaa unyevu wa theluji au mvua za masika. Subiri hadi udongo ukauke na uweze kulimwa.
Mizizi ya mimea ya msimu wa baridi haina kina na mimea yenyewe ni ndogo kuliko mimea ya mboga ya msimu wa joto. Huacha kuzalisha mwanzoni mwa kiangazi wakati halijoto inapozidi nyuzi joto 30 C. Katika maeneo ambayo usiku hubakia kuwa baridi, unaweza kupanda mboga za msimu wa baridi kila baada ya wiki mbili kwa mavuno ya mfululizo ambayo huendelea hadi Anguko; pia huitwa kupanda mfululizo.
Katika maeneo yenye joto, panda mboga za msimu wa baridi mapema iwezekanavyo mwishoni mwa Majira ya baridi au mwanzo wa Spring, na panda mbegu au kupandikiza tena mwishoni mwa vuli ili kuvuna majira ya baridi.
Mboga chache zisizostahimili baridi, kama vile karoti, kale, parsnips na kitunguu saumu, zinaweza kudumu wakati wote wa msimu wa baridi katika baadhi ya maeneo.
Unaweza kununua kipimajoto cha udongo ili kukusaidia kujua wakati wa kupanda mboga za msimu wa baridi.
** Katika halijoto ya udongo ya nyuzijoto 5 C, panda arugula, maharagwe ya fava, kale, lettusi, parsnips, mbaazi, radicchio, figili na mchicha.
** Kwa joto la udongo la nyuzijoto 10 C, panda kabichi ya Kichina, vitunguu maji, vitunguu, chard ya Uswizi na turnips.
** Katika halijoto ya udongo ya nyuzijoto 15 C, panda beets, brokoli, chipukizi za Brussels, kabichi, karoti, na cauliflower.
 
KUPANDA MBOGA ZA MSIMU WA JOTO
Mboga za msimu wa joto, kama vile nyanya, pilipili, mahindi, na bamia, zilizokuzwa katika hali ya hewa ya tropiki. Wao hukuza matunda yanayoweza kuliwa badala ya mizizi, mashina, majani au vichipukizi vinavyoweza kuliwa, kama mazao ya msimu wa baridi hufanya. Mboga hizi laini huuawa na hali ya hewa ya baridi na hazitafanya kazi vizuri ikiwa halijoto itashuka chini ya nyuzi joto 10. Usijisumbue kupanda kabla ya joto la udongo na hewa kuwa joto katika Majira ya kuchipua au majira ya kiangazi mapema kwa sababu mbegu na mimea hazitaweza tu.' t kukua. Subiri hadi takriban wiki mbili baada ya wastani wa tarehe ya baridi ili eneo lako lipande mazao ya msimu wa joto.
Mazao ya msimu wa joto yanaweza kupandwa ndani ya nyumba wiki 4 - 6 kabla ya siku zako za mwisho za baridi, na kisha kupandwa kwenye Bustani baada ya kuanza kupata joto. Kuanza mapema ndani huwapa uchangamfu msimu wa ukuaji, lakini kumbuka kuzoea maisha ya nje polepole kwa kuwaweka kwenye kivuli badala ya jua kamili, na kuwaruhusu kuzoea halijoto ya nje katika muda mfupi. Wanaita ugumu huu. Mboga haya hufanya vyema wakati wa joto la majira ya joto: artikete, maharagwe, mahindi, matango, mbilingani, tikiti, okra, karanga, pilipili, boga, viazi vitamu, tomatillos na nyanya.

6 STRAWBERRIES - GROWWING IN THE FIELD

6 STRAWBERRY - 6.00 - PLANNING INFORMATION

 
ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY
6 STRAWBERRY - 6.00 - PLANNING INFORMATION

Strawberries are not native to Kenya, but they have become an important crop due to their potential for export and local consumption. The Kenyan government has identified strawberry production as one of the key areas for investment as part of its efforts to diversify its agriculture sector. With a growing middle class looking for healthier food choices, there is also an increasing demand for fresh strawberries among consumers.
Knowing when to harvest strawberries is crucial for achieving the best taste and highest yields. In Kenya, the best time to harvest strawberries is during the dry season when there is less rain and humidity, usually between December and February. During this period, the berries are sweeter, juicier, and have a longer shelf life.
 
It’s important to pick the strawberries when they are fully ripe but still firm. Over-ripe strawberries tend to spoil quickly, while under-ripe berries lack flavour.
 
Kenya has a growing market for fresh produce both locally and internationally, with an increasing demand for high-quality fruits like strawberries. One way to market fresh strawberries locally is by working with supermarkets, restaurants, hotels or food processing companies that have a ready market for fresh produce.
 
Farmers can also explore direct sales avenues such as farmer’s markets or roadside stalls. For international markets, farmers must meet high-quality standards set by various certification bodies such as Global GAP or Fairtrade International.
 
A 1/8th piece of land can produce between 30kg and 50kg of strawberries per week and each kilo goes for about Ksh400 at the current market price. Now assuming your small farm produces 50Kgs per week then that means you can make Ksh80,000 per month using only a very small portion of your land.
Our work mainly is to set up the project for aspiring farmers who want to venture in strawberry farming we set up the seedlings offer agronomical support , and spraying programs.
 

 
KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 STRAWBERRY - 6.00 - TAARIFA ZA KUPANGA
Jordgubbar si asili ya Kenya, lakini imekuwa zao muhimu kutokana na uwezo wao wa kuuza nje na matumizi ya ndani. Serikali ya Kenya imebainisha uzalishaji wa strawberry kama mojawapo ya maeneo muhimu ya uwekezaji kama sehemu ya juhudi zake za kuleta mseto wa sekta yake ya kilimo. Kukiwa na tabaka la kati linalokua likitafuta chaguo bora za chakula, pia kuna ongezeko la mahitaji ya jordgubbar safi miongoni mwa watumiaji.
Kujua wakati wa kuvuna jordgubbar ni muhimu kwa kupata ladha bora na mavuno ya juu zaidi. Nchini Kenya, wakati mzuri wa kuvuna jordgubbar ni wakati wa kiangazi wakati kuna mvua kidogo na unyevu, kwa kawaida kati ya Desemba na Februari. Katika kipindi hiki, matunda ni tamu, yenye juisi, na maisha ya rafu ndefu.
Ni muhimu kuchagua jordgubbar wakati zimeiva lakini bado ni thabiti. Jordgubbar zilizoiva zaidi huharibika haraka, wakati matunda ya chini hayana ladha.
Kenya ina soko linalokua la mazao mapya ndani na nje ya nchi, huku kukiwa na ongezeko la mahitaji ya matunda ya ubora wa juu kama vile jordgubbar. Njia moja ya kuuza jordgubbar mbichi ndani ya nchi ni kufanya kazi na maduka makubwa, mikahawa, hoteli au kampuni za usindikaji wa chakula ambazo zina soko tayari la mazao mapya.
Wakulima wanaweza pia kuchunguza njia za mauzo ya moja kwa moja kama vile masoko ya wakulima au maduka ya kando ya barabara. Kwa masoko ya kimataifa, wakulima lazima wafikie viwango vya ubora wa juu vilivyowekwa na mashirika mbalimbali ya uthibitishaji kama vile Global GAP au Fairtrade International.
Sehemu ya 1/8 ya ardhi inaweza kuzalisha kati ya kilo 30 na 50 za jordgubbar kwa wiki na kila kilo huenda kwa takriban Ksh400 kwa bei ya sasa ya soko. Sasa ikizingatiwa kuwa shamba lako dogo hutoa 50Kgs kwa wiki basi hiyo inamaanisha unaweza kutengeneza Ksh80,000 kwa mwezi kwa kutumia sehemu ndogo sana ya ardhi yako.

6 STRAWBERRY - 6.01 – PLANT IN CONTAINER

 
 
ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY

6 STRAWBERRY - 6.01 – PLANT IN CONTAINER

How to Grow Strawberries in Containers:

Everything You Need to Know from Soil to Harvest
 
Growing strawberries in pots is a delightful endeavour that brings the joy of growing your own juicy, red gems right into your hands. Not only does it add a touch of green to your living space, but it also allows you to enjoy the unparalleled sweetness of freshly picked strawberries. In this guide, we'll walk you through all the steps to achieving bountiful strawberry production using this space-saving method.
 
START GARDENING IN CONTAINERS
Step 1: Choosing Strawberry Varieties
Choosing the right strawberry varieties lays the foundation for a successful harvest. Consider what space you have and whether you want June-bearing, ever-bearing, or day-neutral varieties. For container growing, compact or trailing varieties like Alpine or Ozark Beauty are great. These varieties gracefully fit into the tight space of plastic bottles while still delivering that burst of strawberry flavor.
 
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Step 2: Prepare soil and containers
Creating a conducive environment for your strawberries starts with the soil and containers. Opt for a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting soil that promotes healthy root development. 5-liter plastic bottles make great containers with their versatility and availability.
Cut them horizontally, leaving the bottom intact as a water reservoir. Drill holes in the cap end for drainage. This upcycling not only reduces waste, but also provides an ideal environment for strawberries to thrive.
 

 
KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 STRAWBERRY - 6.01 – PANDA KATIKA KONTENA
Jinsi ya kukuza jordgubbar kwenye vyombo:
Kila Kitu Unachohitaji Kujua Kuanzia Udongo Hadi Kuvuna
 
Kupanda jordgubbar katika sufuria ni jitihada ya kupendeza ambayo huleta furaha ya kukua vito vyako vya juisi, nyekundu mikononi mwako. Sio tu inaongeza mguso wa kijani kwenye nafasi yako ya kuishi, lakini pia hukuruhusu kufurahiya utamu usio na kifani wa jordgubbar mpya. Katika mwongozo huu, tutakutembeza kupitia hatua zote za kufikia uzalishaji wa sitroberi kwa wingi kwa kutumia mbinu hii ya kuokoa nafasi.
 
ANZA KUPANDA BUSTANI KWENYE VYOMBO
Hatua ya 1: Chagua Aina za Strawberry
Kuchagua aina sahihi za strawberry huweka msingi wa mavuno yenye mafanikio. Zingatia ni nafasi gani unayo na kama unataka aina zinazozaa Juni, zinazoendelea kuzaa au zisizoegemea upande wowote wa siku. Kwa ukuzaji wa kontena, aina fupi au zinazofuata kama vile Alpine au Ozark Beauty ni nzuri. Aina hizi hutoshea vyema kwenye nafasi iliyobana ya chupa za plastiki huku zikiendelea kutoa ladha hiyo ya sitroberi.
 
Ibandike
Hatua ya 2: Tayarisha udongo na vyombo
Kuunda mazingira mazuri kwa jordgubbar yako huanza na udongo na vyombo. Chagua udongo wenye unyevunyevu na wenye rutuba ambao unakuza ukuaji wa mizizi yenye afya. Chupa za plastiki zenye ujazo wa lita 5 hutengeneza makontena mazuri kutokana na matumizi mengi na upatikanaji wake.
Zikate kwa usawa, ukiacha sehemu ya chini ikiwa kama hifadhi ya maji. Chimba mashimo kwenye mwisho wa kofia kwa mifereji ya maji. Uboreshaji huu sio tu unapunguza taka, lakini pia hutoa mazingira bora kwa jordgubbar kustawi.

6 STRAWBERRY 6.02 – GROWING

 

ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY
6 STRAWBERRY 6.02 – GROWING

 
Step 3: Planting strawberries
Planting strawberries in plastic bottles requires a strategic approach. You'll want to make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged before planting. Plant the strawberry plants carefully, making sure the crown sits just above the soil surface. If you're planting multiple strawberries in a bottle, space the plants about 8-12 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting to allow the roots to establish themselves in their new home.
 
Step 4: Give strawberries your care
1. Water
Strawberry plants need consistent soil moisture to produce maximum fruit. You'll want to water them regularly, especially during dry periods or when the plants are flowering and fruiting. The soil should be slightly moist but never waterlogged. About an inch of water per week should be enough.
 
2. Fertilizer
Strawberry plants are heavy feeders, so you'll want to prepare the soil in advance by mixing in aged manure and/or compost. The soil should also be well-drained and slightly acidic, with a pH of 6 to 6.5. You can also apply a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 every three to four weeks during the growing season.
 
3. Pruning
Strawberry plants need pruning to remove unwanted or diseased plant parts such as leaves, stems, flowers or runners.
 
REMEMBER
1. Sunlight: Adequate sunlight is important, so place your bottles in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight. Occasionally, you can rotate the bottles to ensure that all sides of the plants receive equal sunlight.
2. Pests and diseases: Strawberry plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases such as aphids, spider mites, slugs, birds, rodents, powdery mildew, blight and fruit rot. To prevent or control these problems, you can rotate crops every few years or use organic pesticides.
3. Check containers: You should regularly check the condition of your plastic bottles and replace any that show signs of wear or damage.
 
 

 
KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 STRAWBERRY 6.02 – KUKUA
 
Hatua ya 3: Kupanda jordgubbar
Kupanda jordgubbar kwenye chupa za plastiki kunahitaji mbinu ya kimkakati. Utataka kuhakikisha kuwa udongo ni unyevu lakini hauna maji kabla ya kupanda. Panda mimea ya strawberry kwa uangalifu, uhakikishe kuwa taji inakaa juu ya uso wa udongo. Ikiwa unapanda jordgubbar nyingi kwenye chupa, weka mimea kwa umbali wa inchi 8-12. Mwagilia maji vizuri baada ya kupanda ili kuruhusu mizizi kujiimarisha katika nyumba yao mpya.
 
Hatua ya 4: Wape jordgubbar utunzaji wako
1. Maji
Mimea ya Strawberry inahitaji unyevu thabiti wa udongo ili kutoa matunda mengi. Utataka kumwagilia maji mara kwa mara, haswa wakati wa kiangazi au wakati mimea inachanua na kutoa matunda. Udongo unapaswa kuwa na unyevu kidogo lakini usiwe na maji. Takriban inchi moja ya maji kwa wiki inapaswa kutosha.
 
2. Mbolea
Mimea ya strawberry ni malisho mazito, kwa hivyo utataka kuandaa udongo mapema kwa kuchanganya kwenye samadi iliyozeeka na/au mboji. Udongo pia unapaswa kuwa na maji mengi na asidi kidogo, na pH ya 6 hadi 6.5. Unaweza pia kuweka mbolea iliyosawazishwa kama vile 10-10-10 kila baada ya wiki tatu hadi nne wakati wa msimu wa ukuaji.
 
3. Kupogoa
Mimea ya strawberry inahitaji kupogoa ili kuondoa sehemu za mimea zisizohitajika au zenye magonjwa kama vile majani, shina, maua au runners.
 
KUMBUKA
1. Mwangaza wa jua: Mwangaza wa jua wa kutosha ni muhimu, kwa hivyo weka chupa zako mahali panapopokea angalau saa 6 za jua. Mara kwa mara, unaweza kuzunguka chupa ili kuhakikisha kwamba pande zote za mimea hupokea jua sawa.
2. Wadudu na magonjwa: Mimea ya Strawberry hushambuliwa na wadudu na magonjwa mbalimbali kama vile vidukari, utitiri buibui, koa, ndege, panya, ukungu, ukungu na kuoza kwa matunda. Ili kuzuia au kudhibiti matatizo haya, unaweza kubadilisha mazao kila baada ya miaka michache au kutumia dawa za kikaboni.
3. Angalia vyombo: Unapaswa kuangalia mara kwa mara hali ya chupa zako za plastiki na ubadilishe zinazoonyesha dalili za kuchakaa au kuharibika.

6 STRAWBERRY 6.03 – HARVEST

ORGANIC FARMING CURSE AGRO-ECONOMY
6 STRAWBERRY 6.03 – HARVEST

Step 5: Harvest

Once your strawberries are a deep red hue, carefully pick them, making sure to leave the green cap intact. Harvest in the morning when the berries are cool for the best flavour. Do not pull the berry by the cap or calyx, as this can damage the fruit and the plant.
Since strawberries are best enjoyed fresh, try to consume them soon after harvest. If you find yourself in abundance, freezing or making preserves is a delicious way to enjoy their sweetness for a longer period of time.
 
In summary, growing strawberries in plastic bottles is a dynamic and accessible way to indulge in homegrown delights. From choosing the right varieties to caring for your plants to enjoying the fruits of your labour, this journey promises not only strawberries but also a fulfilling gardening experience. So, if you're a fan of these juicy fruits, grab your tools and start gardening.
 
KILIMO HAI CHALAANI KILIMO-UCHUMI
6 STRWBERRY 6.03 – MAVUNO
 
Hatua ya 5: Mavuno
Mara tu jordgubbar zinapokuwa na rangi nyekundu, zichukue kwa uangalifu, hakikisha kuacha kofia ya kijani kibichi. Vuna asubuhi wakati matunda ni baridi kwa ladha bora. Usivute beri kwa kofia au calyx, kwani hii inaweza kuharibu matunda na mmea.
Kwa kuwa jordgubbar ni bora kufurahia safi, jaribu kuzitumia mara baada ya kuvuna. Ikiwa unajikuta kwa wingi, kufungia au kutengeneza hifadhi ni njia ya kupendeza ya kufurahia utamu wao kwa muda mrefu zaidi.
 
Kwa muhtasari, kukua jordgubbar katika chupa za plastiki ni njia ya nguvu na inayoweza kupatikana ya kujishughulisha na furaha ya nyumbani. Kuanzia kuchagua aina zinazofaa hadi kutunza mimea yako hadi kufurahia matunda ya leba yako, safari hii inaahidi sio tu jordgubbar bali pia uzoefu mzuri wa bustani. Kwa hivyo, ikiwa wewe ni shabiki wa matunda haya ya juisi, chukua zana zako na uanze bustani.

6 SUNFLOWERS – 6.90 – PROFITABILITY

 
ORGANIC FARMING COURS AGRO-ECONOMY
6 SUNFLOWERS – 6.90 – PROFITABILITY

 
Profitability Of Sunflower Farming In Kenya
 
Sunflower farming can be profitable in Kenya if the right steps are taken in terms of planning, management, and marketing. Here are some of the factors that determine the profitability of sunflower farming in Kenya:
 
Yield per acre:
The yield per acre of sunflower crop is one of the most important factors that determine the profitability of sunflower farming. The yield per acre can be influenced by factors such as soil fertility, weather conditions, planting density, and crop management practices.
 
Market prices:
Sunflower farmers in Kenya need to get competitive prices for their produce to make a profit. Market prices can be influenced by local supply and demand, global market trends, and quality of the produce.
 
Production costs:
Sunflower farming requires inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, labor, and machinery. The production costs need to be kept in check to ensure that the final selling price of the produce is competitive.
 
Access to credit:
Access to credit can help sunflower farmers in Kenya to purchase inputs, improve their farming practices, and expand their farming activities. With the right support, farmers can increase their yields and profits.
 
Value addition:
Value addition activities such as oil extraction and processing can increase the profitability of sunflower farming. Value addition activities can create new revenue streams for farmers and help them to diversify their income sources.
 
Efficient management practices:
Efficient management practices such as timely planting, proper crop rotation, pest and disease control, and appropriate harvesting and storage practices can help farmers to maximize their yields and reduce losses.
 
In summary, sunflower farming in Kenya can be profitable
if farmers take the necessary steps to maximize their yields, reduce production costs, and get competitive market prices. With the right support, farmers can improve their production practices and add value to their produce to increase their profits. However, it is important to note that the profitability of sunflower farming can vary depending on various factors, and farmers need to conduct thorough research and planning to ensure that their farming activities are profitable.
 
KOZI ZA KILIMO HAI KILIMO-UCHUMI
ALIZETI 6 – 6.90 – FAIDA
 
Faida Ya Kilimo Cha Alizeti Nchini Kenya
 
Kilimo cha alizeti kinaweza kuwa na faida nchini Kenya ikiwa hatua zinazofaa zitachukuliwa katika masuala ya kupanga, usimamizi na uuzaji. Hapa kuna baadhi ya mambo ambayo huamua faida ya kilimo cha alizeti nchini Kenya:
 
Mavuno kwa ekari:
Mavuno kwa ekari moja ya zao la alizeti ni moja ya mambo muhimu ambayo huamua faida ya kilimo cha alizeti. Mavuno kwa kila ekari yanaweza kuathiriwa na mambo kama vile rutuba ya udongo, hali ya hewa, msongamano wa upanzi na kanuni za usimamizi wa mazao.
 
Bei za soko:
Wakulima wa alizeti nchini Kenya wanahitaji kupata bei shindani kwa mazao yao ili kupata faida. Bei za soko zinaweza kuathiriwa na usambazaji na mahitaji ya ndani, mwenendo wa soko la kimataifa, na ubora wa mazao.
 
Gharama za uzalishaji:
Kilimo cha alizeti kinahitaji pembejeo kama vile mbegu, mbolea, dawa, nguvu kazi na mashine. Gharama za uzalishaji zinapaswa kuwekwa chini ya udhibiti ili kuhakikisha kuwa bei ya mwisho ya mauzo ya mazao ni ya ushindani.
 
Ufikiaji wa mkopo:
Upatikanaji wa mikopo unaweza kuwasaidia wakulima wa alizeti nchini Kenya kununua pembejeo, kuboresha mbinu zao za kilimo, na kupanua shughuli zao za kilimo. Kwa usaidizi unaofaa, wakulima wanaweza kuongeza mavuno na faida zao.
 
Ongezeko la thamani:
Shughuli za kuongeza thamani kama vile uchimbaji na usindikaji wa mafuta zinaweza kuongeza faida ya kilimo cha alizeti. Shughuli za kuongeza thamani zinaweza kuunda vyanzo vipya vya mapato kwa wakulima na kuwasaidia kubadilisha vyanzo vyao vya mapato.
 
Mbinu za usimamizi wa ufanisi:
Mbinu za usimamizi bora kama vile upandaji kwa wakati, mzunguko sahihi wa mazao, udhibiti wa wadudu na magonjwa, na uvunaji na uhifadhi unaofaa unaweza kuwasaidia wakulima kuongeza mavuno yao na kupunguza hasara.
 
Kwa muhtasari, kilimo cha alizeti nchini Kenya kinaweza kuwa na faida
ikiwa wakulima watachukua hatua zinazohitajika ili kuongeza mavuno yao, kupunguza gharama za uzalishaji, na kupata bei shindani za soko. Kwa usaidizi unaofaa, wakulima wanaweza kuboresha mbinu zao za uzalishaji na kuongeza thamani ya mazao yao ili kuongeza faida yao. Hata hivyo, ni muhimu kutambua kwamba faida ya kilimo cha alizeti inaweza kutofautiana kulingana na mambo mbalimbali, na wakulima wanapaswa kufanya utafiti wa kina na mipango ili kuhakikisha kuwa shughuli zao za kilimo zinaleta faida.
ORGANIC FARMING COURS AGRO-ECONOMY
6 SUNFLOWERS – 6.90 – PROFITABILITY
 
Profitability Of Sunflower Farming In Kenya
 
Sunflower farming can be profitable in Kenya if the right steps are taken in terms of planning, management, and marketing. Here are some of the factors that determine the profitability of sunflower farming in Kenya:
 
Yield per acre:
The yield per acre of sunflower crop is one of the most important factors that determine the profitability of sunflower farming. The yield per acre can be influenced by factors such as soil fertility, weather conditions, planting density, and crop management practices.
 
Market prices:
Sunflower farmers in Kenya need to get competitive prices for their produce to make a profit. Market prices can be influenced by local supply and demand, global market trends, and quality of the produce.
 
Production costs:
Sunflower farming requires inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, labor, and machinery. The production costs need to be kept in check to ensure that the final selling price of the produce is competitive.
 
Access to credit:
Access to credit can help sunflower farmers in Kenya to purchase inputs, improve their farming practices, and expand their farming activities. With the right support, farmers can increase their yields and profits.
 
Value addition:
Value addition activities such as oil extraction and processing can increase the profitability of sunflower farming. Value addition activities can create new revenue streams for farmers and help them to diversify their income sources.
 
Efficient management practices:
Efficient management practices such as timely planting, proper crop rotation, pest and disease control, and appropriate harvesting and storage practices can help farmers to maximize their yields and reduce losses.
 
In summary, sunflower farming in Kenya can be profitable
if farmers take the necessary steps to maximize their yields, reduce production costs, and get competitive market prices. With the right support, farmers can improve their production practices and add value to their produce to increase their profits. However, it is important to note that the profitability of sunflower farming can vary depending on various factors, and farmers need to conduct thorough research and planning to ensure that their farming activities are profitable.
 
KOZI ZA KILIMO HAI KILIMO-UCHUMI
ALIZETI 6 – 6.90 – FAIDA
 
Faida Ya Kilimo Cha Alizeti Nchini Kenya
 
Kilimo cha alizeti kinaweza kuwa na faida nchini Kenya ikiwa hatua zinazofaa zitachukuliwa katika masuala ya kupanga, usimamizi na uuzaji. Hapa kuna baadhi ya mambo ambayo huamua faida ya kilimo cha alizeti nchini Kenya:
 
Mavuno kwa ekari:
Mavuno kwa ekari moja ya zao la alizeti ni moja ya mambo muhimu ambayo huamua faida ya kilimo cha alizeti. Mavuno kwa kila ekari yanaweza kuathiriwa na mambo kama vile rutuba ya udongo, hali ya hewa, msongamano wa upanzi na kanuni za usimamizi wa mazao.
 
Bei za soko:
Wakulima wa alizeti nchini Kenya wanahitaji kupata bei shindani kwa mazao yao ili kupata faida. Bei za soko zinaweza kuathiriwa na usambazaji na mahitaji ya ndani, mwenendo wa soko la kimataifa, na ubora wa mazao.
 
Gharama za uzalishaji:
Kilimo cha alizeti kinahitaji pembejeo kama vile mbegu, mbolea, dawa, nguvu kazi na mashine. Gharama za uzalishaji zinapaswa kuwekwa chini ya udhibiti ili kuhakikisha kuwa bei ya mwisho ya mauzo ya mazao ni ya ushindani.
 
Ufikiaji wa mkopo:
Upatikanaji wa mikopo unaweza kuwasaidia wakulima wa alizeti nchini Kenya kununua pembejeo, kuboresha mbinu zao za kilimo, na kupanua shughuli zao za kilimo. Kwa usaidizi unaofaa, wakulima wanaweza kuongeza mavuno na faida zao.
 
Ongezeko la thamani:
Shughuli za kuongeza thamani kama vile uchimbaji na usindikaji wa mafuta zinaweza kuongeza faida ya kilimo cha alizeti. Shughuli za kuongeza thamani zinaweza kuunda vyanzo vipya vya mapato kwa wakulima na kuwasaidia kubadilisha vyanzo vyao vya mapato.
 
Mbinu za usimamizi wa ufanisi:
Mbinu za usimamizi bora kama vile upandaji kwa wakati, mzunguko sahihi wa mazao, udhibiti wa wadudu na magonjwa, na uvunaji na uhifadhi unaofaa unaweza kuwasaidia wakulima kuongeza mavuno yao na kupunguza hasara.
 
Kwa muhtasari, kilimo cha alizeti nchini Kenya kinaweza kuwa na faida
ikiwa wakulima watachukua hatua zinazohitajika ili kuongeza mavuno yao, kupunguza gharama za uzalishaji, na kupata bei shindani za soko. Kwa usaidizi unaofaa, wakulima wanaweza kuboresha mbinu zao za uzalishaji na kuongeza thamani ya mazao yao ili kuongeza faida yao. Hata hivyo, ni muhimu kutambua kwamba faida ya kilimo cha alizeti inaweza kutofautiana kulingana na mambo mbalimbali, na wakulima wanapaswa kufanya utafiti wa kina na mipango ili kuhakikisha kuwa shughuli zao za kilimo zinaleta faida.