cabbage farming in kenya

Last updated on June 9th, 2023 at 09:19 pm

Cabbages are one of the most useful vegetables in Kenya.

They are very popular and in high demand in the local market.

Living conditions for growing cabbage

• Soil rich in organic matter, with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
• Water is well distributed, about 500 mm per year.
• Height between 700 and 2200 meters above sea level.
• The temperature is around 16-20 degrees Celsius.

Propagation and planting of Cabbage
Cabbage propagates from seeds.

The seeds can be sown directly or planted in the nursery.

For a good start, seeding is encouraged. It is advisable to transplant the seedlings when they reach 10-12 cm in height. This is after four to six weeks.

The recommended spacing for planting is 60 cm and 60 cm for large head varieties.

The distance between different types is 60cm and 45cm, for small types it is 40cm and 30cm.

Fertilizers like DAP (75kg/acre) and straw should also be used for crop cultivation.

Weeding

Weeding should be done early enough to avoid competition for food.

Weeds can reduce seed production.

Pests and diseases

Insects that attack cabbages include aphids, sawfly and diamondback moth.

Diseases include black rot, fungal spot and bacterial soft rot.

Harvest

The shoots are ready to harvest after about 3 months.

Harvesting can be done as soon as the head is formed.

To prevent the head of cabbage from bursting, it is best to harvest in the morning, when it is still cool.

One acre of land can produce between 10,000 and 15,000 heads of cabbage.

Cabbage market in Kenya

There is a market for cabbage in Kenya. This item is in high demand because it is a nutritious vegetable that contains nutrients such as iron and calcium.

Cabbage is often sold in outdoor markets, grocery stores, supermarkets…etc.

Prices vary depending on the size of the head of cabbage.