How much does it cost to grow strawberries in Kenya?
The best variety to go for is “Chandelier Strawberry” which is perfectly suited for the Kenyan environment. You will require about 3,000 seedlings for a 1/8th piece of land. Given that each seedling costs Ksh10 then your minimum investment in seeds alone will cost you about Ksh30,000.
Where do strawberries grow best?
Keep reading the next few paragraphs. Strawberries can grow in almost every part of our country provided there is constant water supply and stable temperature in the range of 10 – 30 degrees Celsius.
How do you grow strawberry plants from seeds?
Strawberries can be grown from seeds, or using transplants (runners) from already existing strawberry plants. It is however more difficult to start with seeds and thus runners are mostly used. Till the land and remove weeds.
How much land do you need to start a strawberry farm?
Of course, you need some land to plant your strawberry crop. 1/8th of an acre would be adequate for a beginner but if you are in an urban setting you can invest in a few containers (which you can then put in your backyard) and start farming.
What is the process of growing strawberries?
Sow the seeds thinly, pressing the seeds into a moist potting medium in seed starter trays, and barely cover the seeds with growing mix. Place the tray under grow lights, as strawberries need light to germinate. Allow several weeks for germination. Be patient: seeds may germinate anywhere from 7 days to 6 weeks.
Where are strawberries grown in Kenya?
Strawberry farming in Kenya is mainly practised in areas such as Kiambu, Nyeri, Naivasha, some parts of Machakos, Embu, Molo, some parts of Western region, Kirinyaga and Nairobi. Well drained soils with pH of 5.5-6.5. Hot climate.
How long does it take for a strawberry plant to bear fruit?
Generally, strawberry plants do take about a year to really begin producing good fruit.
In which month strawberry is planted?
You can grow and enjoy fresh strawberries at your home in easy steps. As these fruits grow in warm, sunny weather, therefore March or April is the best time for your strawberry plants.
Are strawberries profitable in Kenya?
If you get it right, farming strawberries can earn you good money in less than a year as it has a huge income potential in Kenya. Strawberries can grow in almost every part of Kenya provided there is constant water supply and stable temperature in the range of 10 to 30 degrees celsius.
How many strawberries do you get from one plant?
First, each strawberry plant will typically produce about a quart of strawberries per year. Varieties like Ozark Beauty (an everbearer) will produce two main crops and a few scattered berries throughout the year. When added together, they will usually total about a quart of total production.
How often should strawberries be watered?
During normal weather conditions, strawberries need water equal to 1 to 1.5 inches of rain each week. During hot, dry periods, water as needed to prevent shallow roots from drying out. Plants in containers may need daily watering. Always water early in the day so that foliage dries well before nightfall.
Do strawberries need full sun?
Strawberries do relish plenty of sunlight but too much heat can affect the fruit. I've seen gardens filled with soft, pink strawberries that just don't turn red. This is caused by sunburn. If you live in a warm region, I'd suggest you use canopies to protect the fruits from the afternoon sun.
Are strawberries grown in Kenya?
Strawberry farming in Kenya is done outdoors. However, for better performance, greenhouses are recommended because protect the plants from drought and excess rain. Strawberry farming does best in areas whose soil PH is 5.5 6-6.5. The soil should be well drained and weed-free.
Where are strawberries grown mostly?
In the United States, fresh strawberries are primarily grown in California (roughly 90 percent annually) and Florida (about 8 percent), followed by New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Washington.
Is there a market for strawberries in Kenya?
In 2022, the approximate price range for Kenya Strawberries is between US$ 0.65 and US$ 9 per kilogram or between US$ 0.29 and US$ 4.08 per pound(lb). The price in Kenyan Shilling is KES 70.49 per kg. The average price for a tonne is US$ 647.06 in Mombasa and Nairobi.
Where are strawberries grown mainly?
The USA – and primarily California in that country – is the leading commercial strawberry producer in the world. Turkey, Spain and Egypt also produce significant amounts of strawberries. Mexico is another leading producer. Strawberries are also grown in Russia.
How many strawberries can you plant per acre?
This system will require a little less than 5,500 strawberry plants per acre to be planted. There are, however, other spacings and systems that can be used.
How long it takes to grow strawberries?
The combination of these factors means that strawberries can take anywhere from 2 to 3 months or longer. The best tip I can give you for getting a quick harvest out of your strawberry plantings is: don’t rush anything.
Can you eat first year strawberries?
In warm weather, berries ripen about 30 days after blossoms are fertilized. In the first year, pick off blossoms to discourage strawberry plants from fruiting. If not allowed to bear fruit, they will spend their food reserves on developing healthy roots.
How much water do strawberries need?
Watering. Strawberry plants need regular water to thrive, especially during fruit bearing season, when they need an average of 1-2 inches of water daily. The best way to water strawberries is to use drip or soaker hose placed at least two inches away from the plant.
What is leathery rot?
Leathery rot#N#The fungus penetrates into the plant at the moment when there are wounds. The root neck of the affected plants shows a reddish brown discoloration. The plant wilts and dies. Control:- Use healthy planting material and/or use resistant varieties.
What is the best soil for strawberry farming in Kenya?
Soil preparation: Strawberry farming in Kenya does the best in areas where the soil is in 6 to 6.2 PH. The soil needs to be well drained and weed-free. Strawberries should not be planted in a place where plants of the tomatoes family like raspberries and eggplants have been grown previously.
What factors should be considered when selecting a strawberry farm in Kenya?
When selecting a site for strawberry farming in Kenya, a farmer should consider factors such as air and adequate w ater. Sites that are lower than the land around them are vulnerable to frost as cold air being dense/heavier than hot air will settle on the plants. Level or slightly higher grounds are advised.
How long does it take for a berry to ripen?
The crop takes about 70 days to maturity. Usually, fruits are ready for harvesting 4–6 weeks after blossoming and only the fully ripened (red) berries should be picked because they do not ripen after harvesting.
What is the color of strawberry leaves?
Leaf blight – this occurs on older strawberry leaves. Large circular to oval spots, which are reddish-purple form on the leaves. As infection advances, they develop brown centers bordered by purple zones. Black fungal growth may be seen in the center of the spot. Lesions may also develop on runners of susceptible cultivars.
How to keep strawberries from weeding?
Mulching- after planting the strawberry plants, mulching the beds with pine needles, shredded leaves or straw helps to keep the soil temperature down , mitigate the weed problem , and also keeps the fruit cleaner by keeping the strawberries off of the dirt. As the mulch breaks down, it also adds organic matter to the soil
What is strawberry fruit?
Strawberry ( Fragaria spp) is grown for its fruits which are widely appreciated for their bright red colour, aroma, sweetness and juicy texture. These fruits can be consumed fresh or in foods as pies, preserves, among others.
