Lucerne Yield Per Acre In Kenya 

Lucerne Yield Per Acre In Kenya

The average yield of lucerne hay in Kenya ranges from 4 to 10 tons per acre annually, contingent upon factors such as soil quality, management practices, and climatic conditions. This equates to approximately 4,000 to 10,000 kilograms of lucerne per acre per year.

Lucerne typically matures within 60 to 90 days after planting and can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season, allowing for continuous production.

Its rapid growth and high yield make lucerne a crucial component in supporting livestock farming and enhancing overall farm profitability in Kenya.

Lucerne, or alfalfa, is a valuable forage crop in Kenya renowned for its high yield and nutritional value for livestock.

Lucerne Farming in Kenya

Lucerne, also known as alfalfa, is a highly nutritious fodder crop that is gaining popularity among Kenyan farmers. It is valued for its high protein content and ability to improve soil fertility.

This article explores the yield per acre of Lucerne in Kenya, its economic benefits, and key factors influencing its production.

What Is The Average Yield Of Lucerne Hay?

The average yield of lucerne hay in Kenya typically ranges from 4 to 10 tons per acre per year, depending on soil quality, management practices, and climatic conditions.

The average yield of Lucerne hay per acre in Kenya can vary based on several factors including climate, soil fertility, and farming practices.

Average Yield

1. Yield Range: On average, Lucerne can produce between 5 to 8 tons of hay per acre annually. Under optimal conditions with proper management, yields can reach up to 10 tons per acre.
2. Harvest Frequency: Lucerne can be harvested multiple times a year, typically 3 to 4 cuttings annually, depending on the growth conditions and management practices.

How Many Kg Of Lucerne Per Acre?

The yield of Lucerne per acre in Kenya is often measured in kilograms, particularly for dry matter (DM) which is crucial for fodder use.

Yield Calculation

1. Dry Matter Yield: On average, Lucerne can yield about 1,000 to 2,500 kilograms of dry matter per acre per cutting. Given 3 to 4 cuttings per year, the annual yield can range from 4,000 to 10,000 kilograms per acre.
2. Fresh Weight Yield: The fresh weight yield is typically higher. On average, farmers can expect about 5,000 to 12,000 kilograms of fresh Lucerne per acre per cutting.

Yield Determinants

1. Variety Selection: Different Lucerne varieties have varying yield potentials. Selecting high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties is crucial for maximizing production.
2. Soil Fertility: Lucerne thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Regular soil testing and appropriate fertilization can significantly boost yields.
3. Irrigation: Adequate and timely irrigation is essential for maintaining moisture levels, especially during dry spells. Drip irrigation systems can help optimize water use.
4. Pest and Disease Control: Effective pest and disease management practices are essential to protect the crop and ensure high yields.

How Profitable is Lucerne Per Acre?

Lucerne farming can be profitable per acre in Kenya, particularly for dairy and livestock farmers looking to improve feed quality and enhance animal productivity.

Lucerne in Kenya can yield between 4 to 10 tons per acre, with a maturation period of 60 to 90 days. This makes it a highly productive forage crop, essential for supporting livestock and enhancing farm profitability.

Lucerne farming in Kenya offers several economic benefits, making it an attractive option for farmers.

Profitability of Lucerne

1. Market Demand: There is a high demand for Lucerne as livestock feed, particularly for dairy cows due to its high protein content.
2. Revenue Potential: The revenue from Lucerne farming depends on yield per acre and market prices. Lucerne hay can sell for KES 30 to KES 50 per kilogram, depending on quality.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: Lucerne is a perennial crop, meaning it can produce for several years once established, reducing annual replanting costs.

Profit Calculation Example

1. Yield and Revenue Calculation
   • Yield: Assuming an average yield of 5 tons (5,000 kilograms) per acre per year.
   • Market Price: Average market price for Lucerne hay is KES 40 per kilogram.
   • Gross Income: The gross income per acre can be calculated as:

Gross Income=5,000 kg×KES40/kg=KES 200,000

1. Production Costs
   • Annual Production Costs: Including seeds, fertilizers, irrigation, labor, and pest control, can range from KES 50,000 to KES 70,000 per acre.
2. Net Profit
   • Net Profit:

Net Profit=KES 200,000−KES 60,000=KES 140,000

FAQs

What is the average yield of Lucerne hay per acre in Kenya? The average yield of Lucerne hay per acre in Kenya ranges from 5 to 8 tons annually, with optimal conditions potentially yielding up to 10 tons per acre.

How many kilograms of Lucerne can be produced per acre in Kenya? Lucerne can produce about 1,000 to 1,500 kilograms of dry matter per acre per cutting, with an annual yield ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 kilograms per acre.

What is the overall yield of the Lucerne crop? The overall yield of Lucerne depends on variety selection, soil fertility, irrigation, and pest control, with yields ranging from 5 to 8 tons per acre annually under optimal conditions.

What factors influence the yield of Lucerne in Kenya? Factors influencing yield include variety selection, soil fertility, irrigation, pest and disease management, and overall farming practices.

How long does it take for Lucerne to establish and produce high yields? Lucerne typically takes about 6 to 8 weeks to establish after planting and can start producing harvestable yields within the first few months. It can continue producing for several years.

What is the best time to plant Lucerne in Kenya? The best time to plant Lucerne in Kenya is during the onset of the rainy season to ensure adequate moisture for germination and early growth.