An apple a day keeps the doctor away, and so they said. Apple farming has become increasingly popular due to the rising demand for the delicious fruit. The high demand has been attributed to the high health benefits, limited supply, and high use of value addition.

Currently, South Africa is the main supplier of apples, and farming is confined to highland areas like Nandi, Kiambu, and Kitale.

Ecological Requirements for Apple Farming in Kenya

Apples flourish in:

Soils. Deep, well-drained, fertile soils that are well aerated with a pH range of 5.5 – 7.0. Sandy-loamy and loamy soils are the best.

Altitude. Apples thrive at altitudes ranging from 1800 to 2800. However, they can also grow at lower altitudes.

Rainfall. Apples require moderate, well-distributed rainfall, although they can be grown under irrigation in drier areas and seasons.

Best growing areas

Highland areas like Nandi, Kiambu, Nyeri, Meru, and Kitale provide a conducive environment for apple cultivation. These areas have high altitudes and cool temperatures, making them ideal for apple growth.

When planting, consider growing varieties with low chill requirements. 

Some common varieties you can grow in Kenya are:

  • Pink Lady
  • Anna
  • Golden Dorset
  • Crimson Red
  • Winter Banana
  • Granny Smith
  • Royal Gala

Can apple farming be your path to financial security?

Yes, apple farming can be your path to security, and here is why!

·         High demand

·         High profitability

·         Longevity

·         Multiple revenue streams

·         Market growth

High demand

Apples are one of the most consumed fruits in the world, and the demand for them continues to grow. With more people becoming health-conscious and looking for nutritious food options, apples are an ideal choice. Additionally, they are used in various products, like snacks, juices, and cosmetics.

Profitability

Apple farming has a high profit potential, and once the initial investment is recovered, costs are very minimal.

Longevity

With proper care, apple trees can produce fruits for over 30 years, making it a long-term investment. This means long-term financial security and stability.

Multiple revenue streams

One of the best things about apples is that they can generate multiple revenue streams. In addition to selling fresh apples, you can also sell other products like apple juice, sauce, cider, and baked goods.

Growing market

The apple market keeps growing as more people become health-conscious and look for nutritious food options. As this happens, demand is expected to increase, presenting a great opportunity for farmers to expand their businesses and tap into new markets.

Market demand

As the saying goes, apple farming can shape your path to financial security and prosperity. Currently, the demand for apples in Kenya is still high and has a high profit potential for small-scale and established farmers. They can target markets such as:

Urban consumer demand, especially in major cities like Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret. In these areas, consumption is influenced by exposure to international trends, changing lifestyles, and increased health consciousness. 

Retail and supermarkets such as QuickMart, Naivas, Chandarana, and fruit markets across the country

The food processing industry makes products such as jams, juices, yogurts, and dried apple snacks.

Export market in East African nations like Rwanda and Uganda, Middle East nations, Asia, and Europe. 

Profitability per acre

The profit potential for apples is quite high, and an acre can earn up to Ksh 2 million per acre.

In a good year, selling a kilo at Sh 100, a farmer with one acre producing 6 to 10 tons will pocket about Sh 600,000 to Sh 1,000,000.

The cost of production for an acre lies at Sh 220,000, with a larger percentage of the cost lying in seedlings, land preparation, and planting.

After deducting the production costs, a farmer will have a net amount of Sh 380,000 to Sh 780,000. Isn't this a good amount with little effort?

Get Certified Apple Seedlings from Frutunda

Are you looking for high-quality seedlings? At Frutunda, we offer certified apple seedlings to help you start growing your own delicious and nutritious apples!

Experience the joy of harvesting fresh apples from your backyard. Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your garden and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Visit our website or contact us to place your order. Get started with Frutunda and create a vibrant orchard.

Visit us here at our farm, Ridgeways, along Kigwa Road.

Contact: 0769623300

WhatsApp: https://wa.me/254769623300