Dragon fruit farming in Kenya is becoming popular. However, many Kenyans have not embraced it because of a lack of information. However, it is worth understanding that this is one of the most expensive fruits and could earn you incredible income. So, what do you know about it?
Dragon fruit farming offers farmers an exciting opportunity to enter that fast-growing market. The demand for this fruit is gradually increasing, both domestically and internationally. Here is everything you need to know about dragon fruit farming in Kenya.
The origin of dragon fruit
The dragon fruit, also called pitahaya or pitaya, is a relatively new crop in Kenya. It is a plant in the cactus species, and its Latin name is Hylocereus cactus. It hails from South and Central America and is currently grown in most parts of the world.
There are four varieties of this fruit. One is pink, the other has red flesh, and one has white flesh. The fourth variety features yellow skin with white flesh. Below are their scientific names;
- White dragon fruit - Hylocereus umlauts
- Red dragon fruit - Hylocereus guatemalensis
- Yellow dragon fruit - Selenicereus megalanthus
- Pink dragon fruit - Hylocereus polyrhizus
What are the nutritional benefits of dragon fruits?
According to Rich Farm Kenya, the fruit is rich in essential vitamins and minerals but low in calories. It also contains fibres in generous amounts.
An average-sized fruit has the following nutritional components:
- 3 grams of protein
- 8% of the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) of Iron
- 18% of the RDI of Magnesium
- 29 grams of carbohydrates
- 4% of the RDI of Vitamin E
- 7 grams of dietary fibre
- 9% of the RDI of Vitamin C
The fruit has the following nutritional benefits;
- It serves as an antioxidant for hypertension, cancer, constipation, and diabetes.
- It is high in Vitamins, fibre, and minerals, which improves digestion and boosts immunity.
- It contains no cholesterol, which means eating them is good for your heart and cardiovascular system.
Dragon fruit farming in Kenya
Where can dragon fruit grow in Kenya? The demand for this fruit has increased in the country. Luckily, these fruits can thrive in arid and semi-arid areas without much problem. Being of the cactus family, this fruit does not require a lot of water.
Major dragon fruit farming areas in Kenya are;
- Meru
- Laikipia
- Naivasha
- Makueni
However, this fruit can grow in several counties in Kenya, including Baringo, Tharaka-Nithi, Kitui, and Garissa.
How to grow dragon fruit plants
Whether it is Dragon fruit farming in Meru or any other place, understand that this is a climbing plant and requires a bit of support if you are to get a maximum harvest. It is also a subtropical plant that needs a lot of heat and humidity.
Here is the summary of what is required:
- Temperature requirements: The temperature needs to be between 65 and 80 Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
- Soil requirements: The plant can grow in any soil that is well draining. However, soil that is slightly acidic with a pH level that is between six and seven would be better.
- Water and fertiliser: The plant does not require a lot of water. Only irrigate the plant when the top of the soil is dry. Additionally, give the plant a little fertiliser during its active growing season.
- Light requirements: The tips of the plant require full sun to ensure it grows properly. However, the base of the plant can see a little shade.
Here is how you can plant the dragon fruit:
1. Growing from seeds
Like all major fruits, the dragon plant can be propagated from its seeds. Simply cut the fruit and scoop out the seeds. Wash and dry them overnight. Plant the seeds in trays and ensure that they are close to the top.
When the seeds germinate, you can transplant them in pots or prepared farms. Ensure you have two meters between the plants. So, where can one get dragon fruit seedlings for sale?
The seedlings are readily available in the Kenyan market, especially if you have a connection to the dragon fruit farmers network in Kenya. According to an article published by Bizna Kenya, the cost of seedlings could range between Ksh 1000 and Ksh 1500, depending on the variety of the seedling and size.
2. Growing from cuttings
Alternatively, you can propagate these plants from cuttings. However, ensure that you don't take too much from the parent plant. Cut the cuttings into three to six-inch, then apply fungicide to the ends and allow them to dry.
Fungicide helps promote growth, but it is not a necessary step. Dry the cutting for two to five days and plant when the tips turn white.
How many dragon fruits per acre in Kenya?
Many experts recommend that farmers plant dragon fruits from cuttings because it is a sure way to ensure the plants produce fruits similar to those of the parent plant. The best spacing for this plant is 2x2 meters.
What is dragon fruit yield per acre in Kenya? If you are spacing 2x2 meters, it means an acre can accommodate 1,000 of these support posts. On each post, two vines are planted; hence the plant population per acre is 2,000. Each fruit could weigh an average of 0.5 kilograms.
How much is a kilo of dragon fruit in Kenya? Dragon fruit is one of the most expensive fruits on the shelves in Kenya and, thus, a viable business venture. It could cost you in the range of Ksh 800 to 1,500 per kilogram. However, it is worth the price because it is rich in essential nutrients.
How long does dragon fruit take to grow in Kenya?
Dragon fruit is a fast-return perennial fruit crop. Production is expected between 18 and 24 months after planting. The plants can begin flowering in as little as six to eight months, although container-grown plants may take up to two years to bear fruit.
Fortunately, once the plant matures, you can see four to six fruiting cycles a year. The plant is also capable of bearing fruits for 20 to 30 years.
What are the challenges faced by dragon fruit farmers?
Whether it is dragon fruit farming in Laikipia or any other suitable place, there are a set of challenges you need to know. Here are some of the common problems of dragon fruit farming that farmers experience;
1. Lack of knowledge about the dragon fruit farming technique
Inadequate information concerning the planting, cultivating and harvesting of this fruit is a primary problem for most farmers. However, farmers can overcome this by attending training programs that educate them about the best practices.
2. Inadequate high-quality planting materials
The availability of high-quality seeds and cuttings is a major challenge. Therefore, farmers struggle to find reliable sources for these seeds and cutting. To address this, aspiring farmers can collaborate with established dragon fruit farmers.
3. Susceptibility to pests and diseases
The dragon fruit plants are susceptible to diseases and pests. Some of the common pests include scale insects, fruit flies, and mealybugs. Diseases such as stem rot and anthracnose can threaten the plant.
Implementation of pest management strategies and close monitoring of the plant could help mitigate these challenges.
Final word on dragon fruit farming in Kenya
Dragon fruit farming in Kenya is undoubtedly one of the cash cows. Therefore, with higher unemployment rates, it would help if you venture into agribusiness. The farming practice could be tricky, but not if you are well informed.
Tuko.co.ke also shared a detailed article on who invented M-Pesa. M-Pesa services have completely revolutionised how people transact money in Kenya. Unlike in the past when everyone relied on banks, today you can save and send money via your phone.
The question of the person who invented M-Pesa continues to bother many in Kenya. A lot of conspiracy theories have been shared concerning this. Therefore, reading this article will help you unearth the fact.
