What You Need To Know

Plantain farming is a low-capital agribusiness that can be done on a wide range of soils and ecological conditions. In Kenya, production is still low as people lack adequate knowledge of plantain, rely on inefficient extension systems, and have little access to modern production inputs. However, the plants require little care, are highly productive, and can be a steady source of income. Currently, plantain farming is concentrated in central and western Kenya, although the crop is gaining popularity in other parts of the country. So, if you have land with loamy soils, why not grow plantain and enjoy the high returns?

As the population increases, food security is becoming a challenge. Plantain has a natural flavor and texture like potatoes and bananas, and the unripe fruit can be cooked by either boiling, frying, or steaming. The increased consumption is one of the factors that has fueled the demand for plantain. Besides, the fruit is used to make flour. The export market for plantain is also growing.

Starting an agribusiness can be hard, and setting up a commercial orchard can even be more challenging. However, establishing a plantain farm and growing the crop is easier and are less labor intensive.

What's more? The plants are less susceptible to pests and diseases and perform well, even in drier areas.

Besides, plantain has a large market locally and in the export markets. The number of plantain flour processors is also growing.

Perfect weather: Kenya provides an ideal climate for plantain. For instance, most parts of the country offer a temperature range of 15oC to 300C. The plants cannot flourish in too cold or too hot areas.

Get a perfect piece of land

The first step to getting into plantain farming is getting farmland with favorable ecological conditions for plantain. It should have fertile, well-drained, loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. You will also need to be situated in an area with a temperate climate between 15oC and 30oC.

Purchase healthy plantain suckers

New plantain plants are grown from suckers. These shoots (outgrowth) develop from buds at the base of mother plants. Mostly, they contain small, narrow leaves that grow into broad leaves with time.

To thrive in plantain farming, you need to purchase healthy suckers with firm stems from a reputable seller. This guarantees you that they are free from pest and disease damage. Next, you can plant the suckers.

Fertilize your plants and control pests, diseases, and weeds

For optimum production, the soil needs to be kept fertile with all nutrients present. You need to add manure regularly and fertilizers when necessary. This will stimulate the growth and productivity of the plants.

Weeds can be pretty destructive to your plants as they compete with them for water and nutrients. Employ traditional weed control methods. Avoid using herbicides.

Ensure that you protect your plantain plants from strong winds. Plant windbreakers and irrigate your plantain with enough water. Remove excess suckers and remove the dead plants and dead leaves.

Harvesting

As a farmer, you want a fruit that will mature within a short time. With good care, plantain is ready for harvest after 8 – 10 months. The good thing is being harvested, another one is replacing it. All you will be doing is harvesting and collecting money. Isn't this great?

It can be pretty disappointing to purchase suckers only for them to grow poorly and produce little, undersized fruits. At OxfarmAg, quality is in our DNA. We offer certified, high-quality plantain suckers, agronomy support, and a plantain farming package to help you set up an orchard correctly. We are one call away! Place your order today!

Nairobi region - 0769623300
Ms. Florence
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Eldoret region - 0710588060
Mr. Duncan
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Nakuru region- 0740000044
Ms. Caroline
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Mt Kenya region - 0742194880
Mr. Nick
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Western region - 0706222888
Mr. Asman
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