Conditions for Growing Apples in Kenya:
Dear reader;
Have you ever thought of growing apples in Kenya (in your small village farm)… after watching Youtube videos about Wambugu apple?
and you are wondering whether the environment you are located is suitable for apple farming?
Are you thinking about apple farming as a way of supplementing your income so that you don’t rely on your paycheck alone?
If that describes you are at the right place.
Here, I explain ALL the details about the environmental conditions for growing apples in Kenya…
So that when you decide to invest your cash in apple farming you…
Get good yields and handsome handsome profits Instead of losses even if you’ve never tried it before.
Ready?
Continue reading…
Conditions For Growing Apples In Kenya
To grow apples in Kenya at a profit there are some specific conditions you must have in order to be successful.
- First, lets talk about the climate in Kenya, and if it is ideal for apple cultivation.
Apples need a cool climate in order to grow properly.
We are very lucky as a country you’ll find cool weather in the high elevations found in Kenya.
For example, the highland regions of Central, Eastern and Rift Valley and Kisii Nyanza are ideal for apple farming.
“What if My farm is not in the highland areas. Can I still grow apples?” You may ask.
If you are located in the mid to lower altitude areas that have higher temperatures, you can still grow apples.
This may sound unbelievable, but it is true.
Want proof?
My mum’s plot in Ruai (A hot area on the outskirts of Nairobi has two apple trees.
These two yield apple fruits yield a substancial amount of fruit every year despite growing in a lowland area.
Another proof that apples can grow even i the dry hot areas is the experience of Wambugu– A pioneer apple farmer in Kenya.
He has proven beyond doubt that apple farming in the dry areas of Laikipia and Baringo is possible.
For more proof, you can watch this video here:
To get best results of apple yield per acre (regardless of whether your farm is in the hot or dry areas…)
Do this…
I recommend you buy Wambugu Apples Variety which you can find online here
And you will call me smilling
Wambugu Apple Tree Growing at a Farm in Muranga
“Apples do well in areas with an annual rainfall of 800 to 1100 mm. Apples can do well in different soil types as long as the soil is deep, fertile, properly aerated and well drained. Sufficient soil moisture is desired during bud break and fruit set for proper fruit quality and yield.”
- Second, soil fertility is an important factor for apple growth.
Apples require well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 7.5.
Don’t take my word for it.
Here’s what other experts are saying…
“There are approximately 7500 apple varieties worldwide, however not all of them can survive in Kenya. They like sandy-loamy soil that drains well and runs deep, with a suggested PH of 5.5-6.5, and are planted in a 2ft by 2ft hole.”
- Third, water is crucial for apple growth.
Apples require a consistent supply of water throughout the growing season.
Irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, can be used to ensure that the trees receive the proper amount of water.
- Fourth, proper pruning and training of the apple trees is essential for a successful harvest.
This includes pruning the trees during the dormant season, as well as training them to grow in a specific shape in order to maximize fruit production.
- Finally, pests and diseases can be a major problem for apple growers in Kenya.
It is important to regularly monitor for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.
Using integrated pest management (IPM) approach is considered best for preventing pest and disease issues.
In summary, growing apples in Kenya can be a successful venture if the appropriate conditions are met, including a cool climate, fertile soil, adequate water, proper pruning and training, and effective pest and disease management.
