Is apple farming profitable?
Apple farming in Kenya can be a HIGHLY profitable venture.
However, it is important for farmers to carefully consider all of the costs and potential risks involved before deciding to invest in an apple orchard.
That said…
To get the answers about the profitability of apples, in this post we will discuss about…
- Yield of apple per acre and its impact on profitability,
- Cost of inputs for an Apple orchard,
- Other costs associated with apple farming.
Yield per Acre of Apple Trees
One important factor to consider is the yield per acre of apples.
The yield of an apple orchard will depend on a variety of factors like:
- Type of apple trees being grown,
- The quality of the soil,
- Climate,
- and the level of care and attention given to the trees.
In general, apple trees in Kenya can produce anywhere from 6 to 10 tons of apples per acre each year.
This yield is exciting because 1 kilo of apples sells for KSH 100.
At that price, you’ll be able to make a gross sales of Ksh 600,000-1,000,000.
However, it is important to note that this can vary significantly depending on the specific conditions of the orchard and the apple variety being grown.
Next let us look into what other people are saying about the profitability of apple farming…
“A mature well managed apple tree can produce more than 500 fruits in a season. An acre at a good spacing can accommodate 500 trees where at farm gate a fruit retail an average of 15-30. Hence a single tree can give a return of an average of 10000, and a one acre apple orchard can give a return of Ksh 500k”
“So far this looks like a lucrative venture to get into. However, if more and more farmers start doing it, we might have an oversupply and prices may start coming down. The best way to go about this is to invest as early as possible and take advantage of the prevailing opportunities to make some good returns.”
Apple farming is one of the most lucrative ventures that need less resources. One needs land, water and manure only to feed the tree.
Seedlings are also easily accessible in the market. Apple farming, is not labour intensive as many farmers perceive.
Kate Wambugu In Her Profitable Apple Farm In Laikipia County
The Cost Of Inputs
Another important factor to consider is the cost of inputs.
Apple farming requires a significant investment in various inputs, including:
- Seedlings,
- Fertilizers,
- Pesticides,
- and irrigation systems.
The cost of these inputs can vary depending on the specific needs of the orchard and the quantities required.
For example, the cost of seedlings per acre can range from around KES 50,000 to KES 100,000, depending on the size and quality of the trees.
Fertilizers and pesticides can also be costly, with prices ranging from KES 10,000 to KES 50,000 per acre depending on the type and quantity needed.
In addition to the cost of inputs, apple farmers also need to consider…
Management costs of an Apple Orchard.
These costs can include:
- Labor costs for pruning, thinning, and harvesting the apples,
- as well as costs for equipment and machinery needed to maintain the orchard.
These costs can vary significantly depending on the size of the orchard and the level of labor and equipment needed.
Other Costs Associated With Apple Production
Finally, it is important to consider any other costs that may be associated with apple farming, such as marketing and transportation costs.
These costs can vary depending on the specific needs of the orchard and the market conditions.
Overall, apple farming in Kenya can be a highly profitable venture, but it is important for farmers to carefully consider all of the costs and potential risks involved.
By carefully managing their orchards and keeping costs under control, apple farmers in Kenya can achieve success and profitability in this rewarding industry.
Interested in Growing apple seedlings?
