Okra Yield Per Acre In Kenya
Okra farming in Kenya offers substantial yields and profitability potential. Yields typically range from 6,000 to 10,000 kilograms per acre, with some high-yielding varieties like “Pusa Sawani” capable of producing up to 12 tonnes per acre under optimal conditions.
Profitability hinges on factors such as production costs, which can range from KES 50,000 to KES 100,000 per acre inclusive of expenses for land preparation, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, labor, and irrigation.
Market prices for okra fluctuate between KES 40 to KES 80 per kilogram, enabling farmers to earn between KES 240,000 to KES 800,000 per acre depending on yield and market conditions.
With a maturity period of 45 to 60 days, okra allows for continuous production through regular harvesting of tender pods, contributing to its attractiveness as a profitable crop in the Kenyan agricultural landscape.
Okra Farming in Kenya
Okra farming in Kenya has gained traction due to its high demand and nutritional value. With the right farming practices and favorable climatic conditions, okra can be a profitable crop.
This article explores the yield per acre, profitability, maturation period, and a comparison with Uganda’s okra production.
How Profitable Is Okra Farming in Kenya?
Okra farming in Kenya is highly profitable, thanks to the crop’s robust demand in both local and export markets.
The profitability of okra farming is determined by factors such as yield, market prices, production costs, and effective farm management.
Factors Influencing Profitability
- High Market Demand: Okra is a popular vegetable in Kenyan cuisine and has a growing demand in international markets, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
- Climatic Conditions: Kenya’s tropical and subtropical climate is ideal for okra cultivation, allowing for multiple harvests per year.
- Efficient Farm Management: Adopting best practices in land preparation, planting, pest control, and irrigation can significantly enhance yield and profitability.
- Variety Selection: Choosing high-yielding and disease-resistant okra varieties can lead to better production outcomes.
How Much Okra Can Be Harvested Per Acre?
The yield of okra per acre in Kenya depends on the variety grown, farming practices, and environmental conditions.
Yield Expectations
- Variety: Different okra varieties have different yield potentials. High-yielding varieties can produce up to 10 to 12 tons per acre.
- Farming Practices: Proper soil preparation, optimal spacing, timely planting, and effective pest management can maximize yield. On average, farmers can expect to harvest around 8 to 10 tons per acre under good management practices.
- Harvesting Frequency: Okra plants produce pods continuously, and regular harvesting is necessary to maintain quality and encourage further production. Typically, harvesting occurs every 3 to 4 days.
How Long Does Okra Take to Mature in Kenya?
Okra is a relatively fast-growing crop, with a short maturity period that makes it an attractive option for farmers.
Maturity Timeline
- Germination: Okra seeds germinate within 5 to 10 days after planting.
- Vegetative Growth: The vegetative stage lasts for about 4 to 6 weeks, during which the plant develops leaves and stems.
- Flowering and Fruiting: Okra plants start flowering around 6 to 8 weeks after planting, and pods begin to form shortly thereafter.
- Harvesting: The first harvest can be expected around 60 to 70 days from planting. The harvesting period can extend for several weeks, with pods being picked every 3 to 4 days.
FAQs
How profitable is okra farming in Kenya? Okra farming in Kenya is highly profitable due to strong local and export market demand. With efficient farm management, farmers can achieve significant returns on investment.
How much okra can be harvested per acre? On average, farmers can harvest 8 to 10 tons of okra per acre in Kenya, with high-yielding varieties and optimal farming practices potentially producing up to 12 tons per acre.
How long does okra take to mature in Kenya? Okra takes about 60 to 70 days to mature in Kenya, with the first harvest occurring around this time. Regular harvesting can continue for several weeks thereafter.
How much okra does Uganda produce per acre? Uganda’s okra yield per acre ranges from 6 to 8 tons on average, with the potential to reach up to 10 tons per acre under optimal conditions.
What factors influence okra yield per acre in Kenya? Factors influencing okra yield per acre include variety selection, soil fertility, climatic conditions, pest and disease management, and overall farm management practices.
What is the best time to plant okra in Kenya? The best time to plant okra in Kenya is during the onset of the rainy season, which provides adequate moisture for germination and early growth. Planting can also be done during dry seasons with proper irrigation.
