kenthefarmer
Lister
Groundnuts (peanuts or njugu karanga) as they’re popularly known, are one of the easiest crops to grow in Kenya.Let me break it down in a way you can easily follow.
Groundnut Varieties
Before planting, you need to choose the right variety for your region. Here are a few common ones:
1. Red Valencia:
Matures in about 90-100 days.
Drought-tolerant and highly productive.
Loved for its sweet taste and high oil content.
2. Spanish Varieties:
Small pods but high oil content.
Grows fast and matures in 90-100 days.
Perfect for drier regions.
3. Virginia Varieties:
Takes 120-130 days to mature.
Produces larger pods, ideal for snacks and peanut butter.
Requires slightly more rainfall than other varieties.
4. Runner Varieties:
Yields highly and takes 120-130 days to mature.
Best for regions with consistent rainfall.
5. Local varieties like homabay variety
Mostly consumed by those guys who chew "miraa" khat.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Climate: Groundnuts need warm temperatures of 25°C to 35°C. They thrive in semi-arid regions with 500-700mm of rainfall during their growth period.
Soil: Sandy loam soils with good drainage are ideal. Avoid waterlogged areas, as they can lead to root diseases. A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is perfect.
Planting Guidelines
1. Land Preparation:
Clear and plow the field to achieve fine soil.
Add organic manure or phosphate-based fertilizer like DAP during planting or both.
2. Seed Rate and Spacing:
You’ll need about 30-40kg of seeds per acre.
Spacing: 30cm between rows and 15cm between plants.
Sow seeds 5cm deep and cover lightly with soil.
3. Weeding and Maintenance:
Weed 2-3 times during the growing period.
Minimal use of pesticides is required, but keep an eye out for pests like aphids and diseases.
Irrigation may be necessary in regions with insufficient rainfall. ( I normally grow groundnuts on the onset of rainfall season)
Harvesting
Groundnuts are ready for harvest when the leaves start yellowing, and the pods are fully developed.
To harvest, uproot the plants and leave them to dry for a few days before removing the pods.
Market Potential
Groundnuts have a steady market in Kenya and beyond.
1. Local Prices:
A kilo of unshelled groundnuts goes for Ksh 80-120.
After unshelling a kilo ranges in between 250-200ksh
Shelled nuts fetch higher prices, especially in urban markets.
2. Yield:
With proper management, you can get above 500kgs-per acre.
3. Value Addition:
Processing groundnuts into roasted nuts, peanut butter, or oil increases income.
I do sell to the ladies who make "uji power " as they give me better prices.
Incase you have an idol land ,try this out during rainy seasons!
yea. Thankyou