beans farming in Kenya

Last updated on June 9th, 2023 at 08:03 pm

This article focuses on beans farming in Kenya.

Types of beans grown in Kenya

• Wairimu.
• Rose coco.
• Mwezi moja.
• Mwitemania.
• Canadian w.
• Yellow beans.
• KK 15.

Environmental requirements for growing beans

• Annual rainfall from 800 to 2000 mm.
• Soils thrive at a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.
• The soil should be rich in organic matter.
• The temperature is between 15°C and 33°C.
• Altitude 1000 to 2100m above sea level.

Planting beans

The land must be prepared well before planting, which is done at the beginning of the rains.

Beans are propagated by seeds that are planted directly in the soil.

The recommended space is 40 cm by 15 cm and at a depth of about two centimeters.

From this space, 2 seeds per space are enough.

For the best growth and maximum yield, beans can be planted with other plants.

Many farmers in Kenya combine beans with maize.

The seeds take about 7 days to grow. It also depends on the type of plant.

Fertilizer application

The plant must be given enough nutrients for good growth.

Fertilizers rich in phosphorus should be applied during planting.

Eggs can be used, which is done after germination (after about 4 weeks). Other fertilizers can also be used for egg laying.

Pests and diseases

Pests that attack beans are aphids, red spider mite, soec alonze, leaf miners, plant borers and whiteflies.

Common diseases include downy mildew, bean rust, anthracnose, fire blight and Fusarium wilt.

Pests and diseases can be controlled by applying approved antibiotics and fungicides such as pentagon, green cop, rescue, etc.

They can be managed by doing good garden hygiene.

Harvesting beans

Beans take about 70 to 120 days to be ready to harvest.

Some species take longer to mature.

Bean market in Kenya

Beans are consumed in the country. There is a ready market for beans in Kenya.

It is highly demanded in urban markets, from outdoor markets, grocery stores, supermarkets to institutions such as schools, hotels, prisons, hospitals, etc.

Prices vary from season to season.

On average, a 90kg bag of beans costs between Ksh 7,000 and 10,000.