Beginner Farmer: How To Grow Cabbages in Kenya

Cabbage farming is a common agricultural activity in Kenya, with the crop being grown in both small-scale and large-scale farms across the country. The favorable climatic conditions, availability of suitable land, and high demand for the crop locally and internationally make cabbage farming a profitable venture. In addition to providing income for farmers, cabbage farming also creates employment opportunities for transporters, traders, and other service providers. Crop rotation is also a common practice among farmers, as cabbage is a good crop for improving soil fertility and reducing soil-borne diseases. With its high nutritional value and low-calorie content, cabbage is a healthy food option that contributes to food security and improved nutrition for the population. Overall, cabbage farming is an important agricultural activity in Kenya that plays a significant role in the country’s economy and food security.

Why is Cabbage Farming in Kenya Important?

Cabbage farming is an important agricultural activity in Kenya for several reasons:

1. Economic Importance: Cabbage farming is a profitable venture that provides income to farmers and generates revenue for the country through export. Cabbage is in high demand both locally and internationally, making it a viable cash crop for small-scale farmers.
2. Nutritional Value: Cabbage is a highly nutritious vegetable that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It is also low in calories, making it a healthy food option for people of all ages.
3. Employment Opportunities: Cabbage farming creates employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labor. It provides income for farmers, transporters, traders, and other service providers.
4. Crop Rotation: Cabbage is a good crop for crop rotation as it helps to improve soil fertility and reduce soil-borne diseases. It can also be intercropped with other crops such as maize, beans, and potatoes.
5. Food Security: Cabbage farming contributes to food security by providing a source of fresh vegetables for local consumption and export. It also helps to diversify food production and reduce dependence on imported vegetables.

Overall, cabbage farming is an important agricultural activity in Kenya that contributes to economic growth, food security, and improved nutrition for the population.

Land preparation for Cabbages in Kenya

Land preparation is a crucial step in ensuring a successful cabbage farming operation in Kenya. To start, it is recommended to practice crop rotation for your cabbages to ensure that the soil’s nutrients are not depleted in a single growing season. This practice involves alternating cabbage farming with other crops, such as legumes or maize, to give the soil time to replenish its nutrients.

Before planting the seedlings, it is essential to prepare the land in advance. This process should be done some weeks before planting to allow enough time for the soil to settle and nutrients to be absorbed. The land should have access to plenty of sun and be well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other diseases.

To prepare the land, it should be well tilled to a depth of at least six inches. This process helps to break up any clods of soil and improves the soil’s texture, making it easier for the seedlings to establish roots. The planting bed should be loosened, and a two-inch layer of compost should be mixed into the soil. Additionally, it is recommended to apply a balanced organic fertilizer or manure to the soil, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

The addition of compost and fertilizer ensures that the soil is nutrient-rich and provides the seedlings with the necessary nutrients to grow healthy and strong. It is important to note that the type of compost and fertilizer used should be carefully selected, as too much of either can lead to nutrient imbalances or damage to the plants.

In summary, proper land preparation is critical to the success of cabbage farming in Kenya. By following best practices such as crop rotation, tilling the soil, adding compost and fertilizer, and ensuring adequate sunlight and drainage, farmers can establish healthy cabbage plants that yield high-quality crops.

Cabbage Seed selection and Seedlings

Cabbage farming is a popular practice in Kenya, but many beginner farmers fail at the stage of selecting the right variety of seed. Choosing the best cabbage seed variety is crucial to ensure a successful harvest. It is essential to consider factors such as climate, soil type, and expected yield when selecting seeds.

Once the seeds are selected, the seedling process becomes the most important part of cabbage growing. If starting with seeds, farmers should begin the process about seven weeks before the last expected frost. The seedlings should be transplanted when they are 4 to 6 weeks old to ensure proper growth.

How to Grow Cabbages in a Nursery

The process of seed germination is crucial for successful crop production. Seeds need optimal conditions to sprout and grow into healthy plants. One important factor that influences seed germination is the temperature. The optimum temperature range for cabbage seed germination is 25-30°C. This means that the seeds will sprout and grow best in temperatures within this range.

To ensure optimal conditions for seed germination, it is advisable to raise seedlings in a nursery. In the nursery, the seedlings can be carefully monitored and provided with the necessary care to ensure their healthy growth. The seedlings typically stay in the nursery for 21-30 days, depending on the variety and environmental conditions.

Using germination trays with coco peat planting media is a recommended approach for raising cabbage seedlings. Coco peat is an organic planting medium made from the husks of coconuts. It is an excellent alternative to traditional soil-based media as it is lightweight, sustainable, and has excellent water-holding capacity. However, it is important to properly treat the coco peat by washing it to remove excess salt and other impurities that may inhibit seed germination.

When using germination trays with coco peat planting media, cabbage seeds have been shown to have a 100% germination rate. This means that all the seeds will sprout and grow into healthy seedlings, which is an impressive result. In contrast, when using traditional soil-based media, there may be lower germination rates due to variations in soil quality, nutrient availability, and water-holding capacity.

In summary, raising cabbage seedlings in a nursery using germination trays with coco peat planting media can lead to excellent results in terms of seed germination rates. Properly treating the coco peat by washing it is important to ensure optimal growing conditions for the seeds. With the right approach, it is possible to produce healthy and vigorous cabbage seedlings that will eventually grow into productive plants.

How to Wash and Treat Coco Peat Planting Media

Coco peat is an organic planting medium made from the husks of coconuts. Although it has many advantages as a planting medium, it needs to be treated before use to achieve optimal results in plant growth.

Here is a step-by-step procedure on how to treat coco peat:

1. Soaking in water: Start by soaking the coco peat in water for 15 minutes to hydrate it. This helps to loosen it and make it easier to work with.
2. Add Calcium Nitrate: After the coco peat has been soaked, add calcium nitrate to the mixture solution at a rate of 1 spoonful for every 5 kilograms of coco peat. Stir the mixture well and then leave it for 24 hours. During this time, a displacement reaction will take place.
3. Wash coco peat 5-7 times with clean water: After 24 hours have elapsed, drain the water and wash the coco peat 5-7 times with clean water. This is done to remove any traces of sodium salt that may be present in the coco peat.
4. Measure pH and Electrical Conductivity (EC): Once the coco peat has been washed, measure its pH and electrical conductivity (EC) levels. The ideal pH range for coco peat is 5.6-6.5, while the ideal EC range is 1.6-2.0.
5. Potting of the media on seed trays or planting bags then sowing: After the coco peat has been treated and its pH and EC levels have been adjusted, it is ready for use as a planting medium. Pot it into seed trays or planting bags and then sow your seeds.
6. Commencement of nutrition regime: Two weeks after germination, begin your nutrition program for the plants. This will provide them with the necessary nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

Overall, properly treating coco peat is essential for achieving optimal results in your plant growth and crop production. Following these steps can help you prepare your coco peat for use as a planting medium, ensuring that your seeds germinate and grow well.

Transplanting Cabbages in Kenya

During the transplantation process, it is crucial to ensure that all cabbage plants are started in the same fashion for proper growth. Transplantation is recommended when seedlings are 3 inches tall, and plants should be planted deep in holes fed with loose soil. It is important to leave about half the seedling visible above ground level, and the soil around the plant should be tamped down.

Spacing is also essential, as cabbage plants can grow quite large, and a single head can weigh up to 6 kilograms. A spacing of 18 inches between holes and 2 feet between rows is ideal. Regular watering and protection from insects through timely spraying of pesticides are highly recommended.

As the plants grow, a layer of mulch or grass clippings, straw, and chopped-up leaves should be applied around the plants to keep the soil cool and moist. This layer also discourages weed growth around the cabbages. After harvesting, the applied organic materials can be tilled into the soil to add nutrients to the garden.

Cabbage plants need 6-8 hours of sunlight per day, and most varieties take between 45-100 days to harvest after planting. Larger cabbage head varieties take longer to mature. Ideal temperatures for the crop range between 60-70 degrees Celsius, although an established crop can endure temperatures dipping into freezing levels at night. Prolonged daily temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius may cause the crop to stop growing.

Regular weeding is also important to ensure that undesirable weeds do not compete with the cabbage plants for nutrients. By following these tips, cabbage farmers in Kenya can grow healthy, high-yielding crops.

What is the Best Fertilizer for Cabbage Farming in Kenya?

The best fertilizer for cabbage in Kenya depends on the nutrient requirements of the crop and the fertility level of the soil. Generally, cabbage requires a balanced fertilizer that provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as other micronutrients such as calcium and magnesium.

Before applying any fertilizer, it is recommended to conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient status of the soil and the appropriate fertilizer application rates.

Some of the commonly used fertilizers for cabbage in Kenya include:

1. Compound fertilizers: These are fertilizers that contain a mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). They are preferred by farmers as they provide a balanced nutrient ratio that promotes overall crop growth and development.
2. Organic fertilizers: These include manure, compost, and other natural sources of plant nutrients. Organic fertilizers not only provide essential nutrients to the crop but also improve soil structure and fertility.
3. Foliar fertilizers: These are liquid fertilizers that are applied to the leaves of the cabbage plant. Foliar fertilizers provide a quick source of nutrients to the crop and can be used to correct nutrient deficiencies.

It is important to follow the recommended fertilizer application rates and timings to avoid overfertilization, which can lead to nutrient leaching and environmental pollution. Proper irrigation practices should also be employed to ensure that the nutrients are efficiently absorbed by the crop.

Fertilizing and Watering Cabbages in Kenya

Cabbage is a crop that requires a lot of attention and care to grow well. As a heavy feeder, it needs plenty of water and fertilizer to thrive. A lack of proper nutrition can stunt the growth of cabbage, resulting in undersized heads. Additionally, water plays a critical role in allowing the cabbage to absorb nutrients from the soil. Since cabbage is primarily composed of water, a lack of sufficient watering can cause its head to dry out and become bitter.

If the area does not receive enough rainfall, it is essential to ensure that the cabbage is watered heavily at least once a week. However, the water pressure should be kept low to prevent soil erosion. It is also important to avoid watering the top of the cabbage head, as this can encourage pests and diseases. Watering early in the morning is advisable, and it should be noted that cabbage is a thirsty plant that needs plenty of water to thrive.

Since cabbage is a heavy feeder, it is recommended that plants receive regular doses of fertilizer throughout the growing season. Fertilizer can be added to the soil just before transplanting cabbage seedlings and then sprinkled again on the area where the seedlings are to be planted. It is crucial to work the fertilizer well into the soil to ensure that the cabbage can absorb it properly.

When the plants are about 6 inches tall, it is time to fertilize them again with water-soluble fertilizer. Granular fertilizer should be avoided, as it can burn the cabbage plant if it comes into direct contact with the leaves. Another dose of water-soluble fertilizer should be applied when the seedlings start developing a cabbage head. This will help energize the plants and encourage the production of large, well-formed heads. With proper watering and fertilization, cabbage can grow healthy and strong, providing a bountiful harvest.

Best Way to Irrigate Cabbages in Kenya

The best way to irrigate cabbage farming in Kenya is through drip irrigation. Drip irrigation is a type of micro-irrigation system that delivers water directly to the roots of the plants through a network of pipes and emitters.

Here are some reasons why drip irrigation is the best way to irrigate cabbage farming in Kenya:

1. Water conservation: Drip irrigation is a highly efficient method of irrigation that delivers water directly to the roots of the plants, reducing water waste due to evaporation and runoff. This helps to conserve water, which is especially important in regions where water is scarce or expensive.
2. Precision watering: Drip irrigation allows for precise control of the amount of water delivered to each plant, ensuring that each cabbage plant receives the right amount of water for optimal growth. This can help to improve crop yields and quality.
3. Reduced weed growth: Drip irrigation delivers water only to the plants, reducing the amount of water available for weed growth. This can help to reduce the need for manual weeding and herbicides, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
4. Reduced disease risk: Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the roots of the plants, reducing the amount of moisture on the leaves and stems of the plants. This can help to reduce the risk of fungal and bacterial diseases that thrive in moist environments.

In summary, drip irrigation is the best way to irrigate cabbage farming in Kenya due to its water conservation, precision watering, reduced weed growth, and reduced disease risk benefits. By using drip irrigation, farmers can improve crop yields and quality while reducing water usage and the need for manual labor and herbicides.

How to Install a Cabbage Drip Irrigation System in Kenya

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install a drip irrigation system for cabbage farming in Kenya:

1. Bed making: Start by making your beds 1 meter wide to allow for three rows of drip lines. The beds should be 30cm high to ensure good drainage, which is important for preventing root rot in cabbages. Make sure to level the beds and remove any rocks or debris.
2. Drip irrigation tapes laying: Next, lay two rows of drip lines per bed. Each drip line row should be 20cm apart, and the line should be 20cm from the edge of the bed. If you’re not using beds, space each row of drip lines 30cm apart.
3. Connect the drip irrigation system to a water source: Install a water filter to remove any impurities in the water. Connect the drip irrigation system to a water source, such as a water tank or borehole. Make sure the water pressure is at the right level for your drip irrigation system.
4. Install a pressure regulator: A pressure regulator helps to regulate the water pressure in the system. Install a pressure regulator to ensure that the water pressure is at the right level for your drip irrigation system.
5. Install a timer: A timer is used to control the frequency and duration of irrigation. Install a timer to automate the watering process and ensure that your cabbages receive the right amount of water at the right time.
6. Flush the system: Before using the drip irrigation system, flush it with water to remove any debris or dirt that may have accumulated during installation.

By following these steps, you can install a drip irrigation system for your cabbage farm in Kenya. A drip irrigation system is a cost-effective and efficient way to water your cabbages, and it can help to improve crop yields while conserving water.

Harvesting Cabbages in Kenya

When it comes to cabbage farming, knowing when and how to harvest is crucial. Before you start harvesting, you must first determine if the cabbage is ripe. A ripe cabbage head will be firm to the touch and won’t give in much to applied pressure. It’s best to test a few heads to ensure they are all ripe before you start harvesting.

Once you’ve determined that the cabbage is ripe, you can use a sharp knife to cut off the head from the stem. Be sure to make the cut just below the cabbage head and leave the stem in place. If the weather is favorable, another cabbage head can develop on the stem, which is a bonus for the farmer.

How Long Does it Take for Cabbages to Mature in Kenya?

The time it takes for cabbage to mature in Kenya depends on several factors such as the variety of cabbage, climate, soil fertility, and management practices. On average, cabbage takes about 80 to 120 days from planting to maturity. However, some varieties may take as little as 60 days while others can take up to 150 days to mature.

In Kenya, the most common varieties of cabbage grown is the Gloria F1 variety. This variety between 80 to 90 days to mature. It is important to note that the maturity period may vary depending on the prevailing weather conditions, soil fertility, and proper care and management practices such as weed control, pest and disease management, and proper irrigation.

What is the Most Popular Cabbage Variety in Kenya?

The most popular cabbage variety in Kenya is the Gloria F1 cabbage. This variety is a hybrid that was introduced in Kenya by the East African Seed Company. Gloria F1 cabbage has gained popularity among farmers due to its high yield potential, uniformity in size and shape, good disease resistance, and ability to grow in a variety of soil types.

One of the main reasons why people like Gloria F1 cabbage is its high yield potential. This variety can produce up to 25 tons per acre, which is significantly higher than other cabbage varieties. The heads are also medium to large-sized, round, and firm, making them suitable for both fresh market and processing.

Gloria F1 cabbage is also known for its uniformity in size and shape, which makes it easy to package and transport. This has made it a popular choice among traders and exporters who require a consistent and high-quality product.

In addition, Gloria F1 cabbage has good disease resistance, which reduces the risk of crop loss due to diseases. This is particularly important in areas where cabbage diseases are prevalent, such as black rot, clubroot, and downy mildew.

Overall, the popularity of Gloria F1 cabbage in Kenya can be attributed to its high yield potential, good disease resistance, and suitability for both fresh market and processing. These factors have made it a profitable and reliable crop for farmers, and a valuable commodity for traders and exporters.

How Many Cabbage Heads Can You Get on One Acre?

It’s important to note that the yield of your cabbage farm will depend on several factors such as soil fertility, climate, and proper care. On average, the recommended seed rate for cabbage farming is 120g per acre. With proper care and management, you can expect a yield of 10,000 to 15,000 heads per acre, which translates to around 20 tons.

After harvesting, the remaining plant can be uprooted and turned into compost. This will help to enrich the soil with nutrients and prepare it for the next planting season. With proper harvesting and composting techniques, you can ensure the long-term success of your cabbage farm.

What is the Best Method for Growing Cabbages in Kenya?

The best method for growing cabbage depends on various factors such as soil type, climate, and availability of resources. However, some general best practices for growing cabbage are:

1. Soil preparation: Cabbage grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0-6.5. The soil should be deeply tilled, and organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure should be added to improve soil fertility and structure.
2. Seed selection and planting: Select high-quality cabbage seeds that are suitable for your region and growing conditions. The seeds should be planted in seedbeds or nursery beds and transplanted to the main field after 4-6 weeks. The recommended spacing for cabbage is 45cm between rows and 30cm between plants.
3. Irrigation: Cabbage requires regular and adequate irrigation to maintain soil moisture levels. Overhead irrigation or drip irrigation can be used, depending on the availability of resources and soil type.
4. Fertilization: Cabbage requires a balanced fertilizer that provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as other micronutrients such as calcium and magnesium. The fertilizer should be applied based on soil test results and crop nutrient requirements.
5. Pest and disease control: Cabbage is susceptible to various pests and diseases such as cabbage aphids, diamondback moths, and black rot. Integrated pest management practices such as crop rotation, use of resistant varieties, and use of biological control agents should be employed to control pests and diseases.
6. Harvesting: Cabbage heads should be harvested when they reach maturity, which is around 80-120 days after transplanting (This you have to confirm with the variety you are planting). The heads should be firm, compact, and have a uniform shape and size.

Overall, proper soil preparation, seed selection, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and harvesting techniques are essential for successful cabbage farming.

What is the Best Month to Grow Cabbages in Kenya?

The best month to grow cabbages in Kenya depends on the specific region and climate. However, in general, cabbage can be grown throughout the year in Kenya, except in areas with extremely low temperatures. You will need a reliable irrigation system to enable you to grow cabbages all year round.

In areas with high rainfall, cabbage can be grown in two main seasons: the long rain season (April to June) and July to September. In areas with low rainfall, cabbage can be grown during the dry season (October to December) with proper irrigation.

The timing of cabbage planting also depends on the variety of cabbage and the expected harvest time. Some cabbage varieties such as Gloria F1 and Green Challenger can be harvested within 80-90 days after transplanting, while others may take up to 120 days or more.

In general, it is recommended to plant cabbage during a period of relatively stable weather conditions with moderate temperatures and adequate soil moisture. The seedlings should be transplanted when they are between 4-6 weeks old and have developed 3-4 true leaves.

To ensure successful cabbage farming, it is important to consult with local agriculture experts and use region-specific farming practices.

What are the Profit Margins of Cabbage Farming per Acre in Kenya?

The profit margins for cabbage farming in Kenya can vary depending on various factors such as the size of the farm, cost of inputs, market prices, and yield per acre.

On average, a well-managed cabbage farm in Kenya can yield between 10,000 to 15,000 heads per acre, which can translate to approximately 20 tons of cabbage. The average market price for cabbage in Kenya ranges from Ksh 10 to Ksh 50 per head depending on the season and location. Therefore, a farmer can earn between Ksh 200,000 to Ksh 750,000 per acre.

To get a premium price of Ksh 50 per head, you have to sell directly to consumers. This means that you will need to market and sell the cabbages yourself at the market. You can consider renting a pickup truck and parking it at a strategic location to attract customers. It is important to note that during the dry season, cabbages tend to sell quickly, so it is essential to have a good marketing strategy to maximize your profits.

However, the best way to sell cabbages in Kenya is to negotiate a price with buyers at the farm and avoid all the hassle of selling at the marketplace. This will help you focus on the next season and avoid losses that might arise. Selling at Ksh 30 per head is not bad. Then the buyer can resell at 20 Ksh.

However, it is important to note that the profit margins can be affected by various factors such as pest and disease attacks, input costs, and market fluctuations. To maximize profits, farmers should adopt good agricultural practices, minimize production costs, and explore various marketing channels such as selling directly to consumers or supplying to supermarkets and wholesalers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cabbage farming in Kenya can be a profitable venture if proper care and management practices are followed. With the right seed rate, adequate soil fertility, proper care, and management practices, you can expect a high yield of 10,000 to 15,000 heads per acre. Additionally, composting the remaining cabbage plant material after harvest can help to improve soil health, leading to improved crop yields in the future.