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Kiwi fruit, also known as the “king of fruits” due to its exceptional nutritional value, unique taste, and vibrant green color, has gained immense popularity in Kenya. Native to China, this exotic fruit has found its way to many countries, including Kenya, where its cultivation has been steadily growing. The ideal climate and favorable soil conditions make Kenya a promising destination for kiwi fruit farming.
The kiwi fruit is native to China. Previously called Chinese gooseberry, it is now more commonly known by its marketing name of kiwi fruit. Kiwi fruits grow on large vines that are similar to grapevines in their general growth and fruiting habits as well as their training and trellising requirements.
Understanding the Kiwi Plant
The kiwi plant, scientifically known as Actinidia deliciosa, is a vigorous, deciduous vine with large, heart-shaped leaves. It thrives in temperate regions, making Kenya’s central highlands and certain parts of the Rift Valley suitable for cultivation.
Kiwi is a nutrient-dense fruit, packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. It is also a rich source of antioxidants and fiber, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Additionally, kiwi fruits have a low glycemic index, making them an excellent choice for people with diabetes.
According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global production of kiwi fruits has been steadily increasing over the years, with China being the largest producer followed by Italy and New Zealand. However, the demand for kiwi fruits continues to outstrip the supply, creating opportunities for farmers in Africa and other regions to meet the growing demand.
The kiwi plant is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. Only female plants bear fruit, but only when pollinated by a male plant. Vines of both sexes are essential for fruit production, and they must flower at the same time to ensure pollination. One male pollinator vine is required for eight female vines.
The vines are commonly supported on sturdy structures strong enough to bear the heavy fruit, which might otherwise break the rather weak vines. T-bars or hitching post trellises are recommended to support the large fruiting area in the form of a canopy and provide easy access to the fruit.
Selecting Suitable Varieties
Choosing the right kiwi variety is crucial for successful farming. Some popular kiwi varieties suitable for Kenya’s climate include:
Below are some of the popular kiwi varieties grown in Kenya, described in detail:
1. Fuzzy Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa):
Soil for Kiwi Fruit Farming in Kenya:
Kiwi plants have specific soil requirements for optimal growth and fruit production. The right soil type and condition are essential for healthy root development and nutrient uptake. In Kenya, the following factors are crucial when considering soil for kiwi fruit farming:
Climate for Kiwi Fruit Farming in Kenya:
The climate plays a critical role in the success of kiwi fruit farming. Kiwi plants are native to temperate regions and require specific temperature ranges for dormancy, flowering, and fruit set. In Kenya, the following climate factors are crucial for kiwi cultivation:
Kiwi fruit seedlings in Kenya can be obtained at Farmers Trend nurseries by contacting +254724559286 or +254790509684
Land Preparation for Kiwi Fruit Farming.
For preparing land for growing kiwis, prepare a steep land having rows oriented from north to south direction so that they can get maximum sunlight. A good establishment of kiwis vineyards, a thorough land preparation is required.
The soil should be brought in fine tilth form by giving about 2 to 4 normal ploughings followed by 2 harrowing. For successful kiwi farming, it is essential that the soil should be free from all types of weed.
For preparing pits for planting kiwis, fill the pit by with a good mixture of farmyard manure and upper soil for good establishment of kiwis vineyards.
Planting and Care
Proper planting and care are crucial for the successful establishment and productivity of kiwi orchards in Kenya. Here are some important considerations for planting and caring for kiwi fruit plants:
1. Planting:
For good establishment of crop and fruit setting, there is need of timely water supply to any crop. Likewise other commercial crops, this commercial crop also requires frequent water supply during its complete growing period.
This hardy crop takes about three to four years, for being ready for harvesting, so this crop requires regular water supply up to three years of the plantation on the main field. However, do not over water to this crop because once the crop vine meets the need, the foliage can spread to the soil surface and may lead to mulch in this crop. Mulching in any crop minimizes the water requirement of any crop because mulch saves water from evaporation and also control the weeds in the best way.
Whatever is this, a kiwi crop requires water supply at the regular interval, especially during the hot season and drought conditions. For commercial kiwi farming, irrigating this crop at 10 days to 14 days of the interval is considered as the best and beneficial for optimum production. But, supplying water on the basis of plant requirement is the best way for the optimum fruit production.
Application of Manure And Fertilizers to Kiwi Fruit Plant.
Timely application of suitable manure and fertilizers in enough dose multiplies the production amount up to many times. So, for producing maximum, it is the best idea to grow this crop on the soil, which is full of all the essential organic matter such as Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potash and other micro & macronutrients.
So, add about 25 kg of farmyard manure as the basal dose to each plant before planting this crop to the main field. Also, add about 500 gm of the mixture, containing 40 % of Nitrogen, 30 % of potash and phosphorous each, each and every year to the base of the plant up to 5 years of plantation. After five years of the plantation, adding 1 kg of Nitrogen, 0.5 kg of Phosphorous and 1 kg of Potash, every year has excellent results in this fruit production.
Along with all these essential growths enhance, this crop also requires a high amount of Cl because the deficiency of Cl has adverse effects on the plant vegetative growth such as roots and shoots.
READ ALSO: Relief for Fish and Avocado exporters as KenTrade simplifies export procedures.
Also, this commercial crop is also very sensitive to the excess amount of Boron and Sodium. Excess Boron and Sodium are harmful to this fruit crop.
Note: As this fruit crop is very sensitive to application of manure and fertilizers, go for a soil tests, at least once before starting cultivation so that you can learn the soil fertility and productivity of the soil. Also, try to give this essential manure and fertilizers by mixing well with the soil. Care of the level of Cl, B, and Na. The deficiency of Cl and excess level of Boron and Sodium may causes lower the production up to many times.
Training in Kiwi Farming
For training these plants, wooden pillars should be fixed on the main field. However, concrete and iron pillars are also used for providing support to these vines. Fix them by keeping a distance of 5 to 6 meters, apart from each other. Construct a structure such as Kniffin system with the healthy of wire fence or a mess like structure to provide the support to the vines.
The pillars should have a height of 1.6 m to 2.1 m, above from the ground. A 2 mm thick and tensile wire should be strung on the top of these fixed pillars.
However, one can prepare a mess having different construction for providing support to these vines plants. But, take care that, a proper support is needed during the complete growing period of this fruit crops for the healthy production of fruits.
Pruning Kiwifruit plants
Along with good training in this crop, there is also need of proper pruning for good fruit production. There is a need for timely removal of unwanted and undesired parts should be removed from the plants to enhance the plant growth and also the fruit production in kiwi farming.
Cut the canes from male plants, just back to the removed flower wood, just after the flowering season starts.
Also, removed the excessive and vigorously grown wood from the plants along with vertically growing plants.
Do not harm the growing spur for the future growth of plants and a good next flowering season.
Also, removed the extra tangles from the plants along with the overgrown tangles.
Pest and Disease Management
Pest and disease management is essential to ensure healthy kiwi plants and maximize fruit production. In Kenya, like any agricultural region, kiwi orchards may encounter various pests and diseases that can affect plant health and reduce yields. Adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine preventive and control measures is the most effective and environmentally-friendly approach to managing pests and diseases.
Here are some common pests and diseases in kiwi fruit farming in Kenya and recommended management practices:
Common Pests:
Kiwi fruits are typically harvested when they reach full size but are still firm. They should be handled with care to avoid bruising and damage. After harvesting, the fruits should be stored in a cool and well-ventilated area to prolong their shelf life. Kiwis continue to ripen after harvest, so growers should consider the desired ripeness stage for the target market.
Benefit Of Kiwi Fruit
Here are some of the key benefits of kiwi fruit:
Take Away
Kiwi fruit farming in Kenya presents an excellent opportunity for agricultural entrepreneurs seeking a profitable venture. With the right choice of varieties, suitable soil and climate conditions, and proper care, farmers can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these nutritious and delicious fruits.
While there are challenges to overcome, such as pest management and post-harvest handling, the rewards of kiwi fruit farming in Kenya make it a sweet and fulfilling journey for those willing to invest time and effort into this exciting horticultural endeavor.
Article Credit: https://farmerstrend.co.ke/trending/a-complete-guide-on-kiwi-fruit-farming-in-kenya-2/
The kiwi fruit is native to China. Previously called Chinese gooseberry, it is now more commonly known by its marketing name of kiwi fruit. Kiwi fruits grow on large vines that are similar to grapevines in their general growth and fruiting habits as well as their training and trellising requirements.
Understanding the Kiwi Plant
The kiwi plant, scientifically known as Actinidia deliciosa, is a vigorous, deciduous vine with large, heart-shaped leaves. It thrives in temperate regions, making Kenya’s central highlands and certain parts of the Rift Valley suitable for cultivation.
Kiwi is a nutrient-dense fruit, packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. It is also a rich source of antioxidants and fiber, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Additionally, kiwi fruits have a low glycemic index, making them an excellent choice for people with diabetes.
According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global production of kiwi fruits has been steadily increasing over the years, with China being the largest producer followed by Italy and New Zealand. However, the demand for kiwi fruits continues to outstrip the supply, creating opportunities for farmers in Africa and other regions to meet the growing demand.
The kiwi plant is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. Only female plants bear fruit, but only when pollinated by a male plant. Vines of both sexes are essential for fruit production, and they must flower at the same time to ensure pollination. One male pollinator vine is required for eight female vines.
The vines are commonly supported on sturdy structures strong enough to bear the heavy fruit, which might otherwise break the rather weak vines. T-bars or hitching post trellises are recommended to support the large fruiting area in the form of a canopy and provide easy access to the fruit.
Selecting Suitable Varieties
Choosing the right kiwi variety is crucial for successful farming. Some popular kiwi varieties suitable for Kenya’s climate include:
Below are some of the popular kiwi varieties grown in Kenya, described in detail:
1. Fuzzy Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa):
- This is the most common and well-known kiwi variety, also known as the “Hayward” kiwifruit. It has a brown, fuzzy skin and vibrant green flesh. The fruit is large, sweet, and juicy, making it highly sought after in both local and international markets.
- Fuzzy kiwifruit plants require a temperate climate with cool winters and warm summers. Adequate chilling hours are essential for proper flowering and fruit set.
- Harvest Time: In Kenya, fuzzy kiwifruits are typically ready for harvest between March and April.
- The Chinese egg gooseberry, also known as the “golden kiwi berry” or “yellow kiwifruit,” is a smaller-sized kiwi with a smooth, edible skin. The fruit is yellow or golden in color and has a sweet and tangy flavor.
- This variety is well-suited for cultivation in Kenya’s temperate regions, similar to the requirements of fuzzy kiwifruit.
- Harvest Time: Chinese egg gooseberries are generally harvested around the same time as fuzzy kiwifruits, starting from March to April.
- The golden kiwifruit, also known as “kiwi gold” or “yellow kiwi,” is a distinct variety with a hairless, bronze-colored skin and bright yellow flesh. It is known for its tropical, sweet flavor and high vitamin C content.
- Golden kiwifruit thrives in a temperate climate similar to other kiwi varieties and requires chilling hours for proper flowering and fruit development.
- Harvest Time: Golden kiwifruits are typically harvested around the same time as fuzzy kiwifruits and Chinese egg gooseberries, starting from March to April.
- The baby kiwifruit, also known as “kiwi berry” or “kiwi mini,” is a small, smooth-skinned kiwi variety. It is about the size of a grape and is often eaten whole, including the skin. Baby kiwifruit has a sweeter flavor than fuzzy kiwifruit.
- Baby kiwifruit plants require a temperate climate with similar growing conditions to fuzzy kiwifruit and other varieties.
- Harvest Time: Baby kiwifruits are generally harvested around the same time as fuzzy kiwifruits, starting from March to April.
- The red kiwifruit, also known as “kiwi berry,” is a unique variety with a smooth, red or purple skin and green flesh with red specks. It has a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Red kiwifruit plants have similar climate and soil preferences as other kiwi varieties and require chilling hours for proper flowering and fruit set.
- Harvest Time: Red kiwifruits are typically harvested around the same time as other commercial kiwi varieties, starting from March to April.
- The Arctic kiwifruit, also known as “Arctic beauty kiwi,” is a less common variety with striking variegated foliage. The fruit is small and has a smooth, green skin with white flesh and red seeds. It offers a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
- Arctic kiwifruit plants require a temperate climate with cool winters and warm summers, similar to other kiwi varieties.
- Harvest Time: Arctic kiwifruits are generally harvested around the same time as other commercial kiwi varieties, starting from March to April.
- The silvervine kiwifruit, also known as “silver vine kiwi” or “Japanese catnip,” is a lesser-known species of kiwi. The fruit is small and has a smooth, green or yellow skin with white flesh. It is more commonly known for its attractive leaves, which have a silver-colored underside.
- Silvervine kiwifruit plants have similar climate and soil preferences as other kiwi varieties and require chilling hours for proper flowering and fruit set.
- Harvest Time: Silvervine kiwifruits are generally harvested around the same time as other commercial kiwi varieties, starting from March to April.
- The purple kiwifruit is a unique variety with a smooth, purple skin and green flesh. It has a sweet and tangy flavor, and its striking appearance makes it visually appealing.
- Purple kiwifruit plants have similar climate and soil preferences as other kiwi varieties and require chilling hours for proper flowering and fruit set.
- Harvest Time: Purple kiwifruits are typically harvested around the same time as other commercial kiwi varieties, starting from March to April.
Soil for Kiwi Fruit Farming in Kenya:
Kiwi plants have specific soil requirements for optimal growth and fruit production. The right soil type and condition are essential for healthy root development and nutrient uptake. In Kenya, the following factors are crucial when considering soil for kiwi fruit farming:
- Well-Drained Soil: Kiwi plants do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Therefore, well-drained soil is vital to prevent water accumulation around the roots, which can lead to root rot and other diseases. Sandy loam and loamy soils are preferred for their ability to drain excess water while retaining enough moisture for the plant’s needs.
- pH Level: The ideal soil pH range for kiwi cultivation is between 6.0 and 6.5. Slightly acidic to neutral soils promote nutrient availability and uptake, ensuring healthy plant growth and fruit development.
- Soil Fertility: Kiwi plants require fertile soils with adequate nutrients to support their vigorous growth and fruit production. Before planting, it is advisable to conduct a soil test to determine the soil’s nutrient content. Based on the results, farmers can apply appropriate fertilizers to address any deficiencies.
- Organic Matter: Soil with a good amount of organic matter benefits kiwi plants by improving soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. Organic matter can be added through composting or incorporating organic mulch around the base of the plants.
- Soil Aeration: Kiwi roots need oxygen to thrive. Compacted soil can limit root growth and negatively impact overall plant health. Adequate soil aeration can be ensured through proper drainage and avoiding over-tilling.
Climate for Kiwi Fruit Farming in Kenya:
The climate plays a critical role in the success of kiwi fruit farming. Kiwi plants are native to temperate regions and require specific temperature ranges for dormancy, flowering, and fruit set. In Kenya, the following climate factors are crucial for kiwi cultivation:
- Temperature: Kiwi plants require a temperate climate, with cool winters and warm summers. During the winter, the plants need a certain number of chilling hours (hours below a specific temperature threshold) to break dormancy and encourage flowering during the subsequent growing season.
- Frost-Free Period: While kiwi plants can withstand cold temperatures during the dormant phase, they are susceptible to frost damage during the growing season. Therefore, regions with a frost-free period are preferable for kiwi farming.
- Rainfall: Kiwi plants require consistent and well-distributed rainfall throughout the year. While they can tolerate some dry periods, prolonged water stress can negatively impact fruit development and overall plant health. Irrigation systems should be implemented in areas with insufficient rainfall.
- Sunlight: Kiwi plants require ample sunlight to ensure robust growth and fruiting. Full sun exposure is ideal, as it promotes flower development and enhances fruit sweetness.
- Altitude: Kiwi cultivation in Kenya is commonly practiced at higher altitudes, such as the central highlands and certain parts of the Rift Valley. The altitude influences the temperature and chilling hours, making these regions suitable for kiwi farming.
Kiwi fruit seedlings in Kenya can be obtained at Farmers Trend nurseries by contacting +254724559286 or +254790509684
Land Preparation for Kiwi Fruit Farming.
For preparing land for growing kiwis, prepare a steep land having rows oriented from north to south direction so that they can get maximum sunlight. A good establishment of kiwis vineyards, a thorough land preparation is required.
The soil should be brought in fine tilth form by giving about 2 to 4 normal ploughings followed by 2 harrowing. For successful kiwi farming, it is essential that the soil should be free from all types of weed.
For preparing pits for planting kiwis, fill the pit by with a good mixture of farmyard manure and upper soil for good establishment of kiwis vineyards.
Planting and Care
Proper planting and care are crucial for the successful establishment and productivity of kiwi orchards in Kenya. Here are some important considerations for planting and caring for kiwi fruit plants:
1. Planting:
- Site Selection: Choose a location that receives full sun exposure and is sheltered from strong winds. Kiwi plants need ample sunlight for healthy growth and fruit production, and wind protection helps prevent damage to the delicate vines.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of about 50 cm to ensure good root penetration. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure. Perform a soil test to assess nutrient levels and pH, and adjust as necessary before planting.
- Spacing: Kiwi plants are vigorous climbers and require sufficient space to spread their vines. Space the plants about 3 to 4 meters apart, both within rows and between rows, to allow for proper growth and air circulation.
- Planting Time: Plant kiwi seedlings during the cool season, preferably in late winter or early spring when the soil is moist and temperatures are not excessively high.
- Pollination: Kiwi plants are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female plants. For fruit production, it is essential to have both male and female plants in the orchard. The ratio of male to female plants should be about 1:7 to 1:10 for effective pollination.
- Irrigation: Kiwi plants require regular and adequate irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit development. Drip irrigation is highly recommended as it delivers water directly to the root zone, minimizing water wastage and reducing the risk of foliar diseases.
- Fertilization: Apply balanced fertilizers that contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients. Fertilize the plants in split doses during the growing season, focusing on the vegetative growth phase in spring and early summer and fruit development phase later in the season.
- Pruning: Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and structure of the kiwi vines, promote airflow, and ensure sunlight penetration throughout the plant. Prune the vines during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased wood and to manage their vigorous growth.
- Trellising: Kiwi plants are heavy climbers, and proper trellising is crucial to support their weight and facilitate easy management during harvesting and other cultural practices.
- Pest and Disease Control: Implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices to control pests and diseases. Monitor the orchard regularly for signs of infestations and diseases, and take timely action using organic or chemical methods as appropriate.
- Harvesting: Kiwi fruits are typically harvested when they reach full size but are still firm. Use sharp pruning shears to cut the fruit from the vine carefully. Handle the fruits with care to avoid bruising, as they are susceptible to damage.
For good establishment of crop and fruit setting, there is need of timely water supply to any crop. Likewise other commercial crops, this commercial crop also requires frequent water supply during its complete growing period.
This hardy crop takes about three to four years, for being ready for harvesting, so this crop requires regular water supply up to three years of the plantation on the main field. However, do not over water to this crop because once the crop vine meets the need, the foliage can spread to the soil surface and may lead to mulch in this crop. Mulching in any crop minimizes the water requirement of any crop because mulch saves water from evaporation and also control the weeds in the best way.
Whatever is this, a kiwi crop requires water supply at the regular interval, especially during the hot season and drought conditions. For commercial kiwi farming, irrigating this crop at 10 days to 14 days of the interval is considered as the best and beneficial for optimum production. But, supplying water on the basis of plant requirement is the best way for the optimum fruit production.
Application of Manure And Fertilizers to Kiwi Fruit Plant.
Timely application of suitable manure and fertilizers in enough dose multiplies the production amount up to many times. So, for producing maximum, it is the best idea to grow this crop on the soil, which is full of all the essential organic matter such as Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potash and other micro & macronutrients.
So, add about 25 kg of farmyard manure as the basal dose to each plant before planting this crop to the main field. Also, add about 500 gm of the mixture, containing 40 % of Nitrogen, 30 % of potash and phosphorous each, each and every year to the base of the plant up to 5 years of plantation. After five years of the plantation, adding 1 kg of Nitrogen, 0.5 kg of Phosphorous and 1 kg of Potash, every year has excellent results in this fruit production.
Along with all these essential growths enhance, this crop also requires a high amount of Cl because the deficiency of Cl has adverse effects on the plant vegetative growth such as roots and shoots.
READ ALSO: Relief for Fish and Avocado exporters as KenTrade simplifies export procedures.
Also, this commercial crop is also very sensitive to the excess amount of Boron and Sodium. Excess Boron and Sodium are harmful to this fruit crop.
Note: As this fruit crop is very sensitive to application of manure and fertilizers, go for a soil tests, at least once before starting cultivation so that you can learn the soil fertility and productivity of the soil. Also, try to give this essential manure and fertilizers by mixing well with the soil. Care of the level of Cl, B, and Na. The deficiency of Cl and excess level of Boron and Sodium may causes lower the production up to many times.
Training in Kiwi Farming
For training these plants, wooden pillars should be fixed on the main field. However, concrete and iron pillars are also used for providing support to these vines. Fix them by keeping a distance of 5 to 6 meters, apart from each other. Construct a structure such as Kniffin system with the healthy of wire fence or a mess like structure to provide the support to the vines.
The pillars should have a height of 1.6 m to 2.1 m, above from the ground. A 2 mm thick and tensile wire should be strung on the top of these fixed pillars.
However, one can prepare a mess having different construction for providing support to these vines plants. But, take care that, a proper support is needed during the complete growing period of this fruit crops for the healthy production of fruits.
Pruning Kiwifruit plants
Along with good training in this crop, there is also need of proper pruning for good fruit production. There is a need for timely removal of unwanted and undesired parts should be removed from the plants to enhance the plant growth and also the fruit production in kiwi farming.
Cut the canes from male plants, just back to the removed flower wood, just after the flowering season starts.
Also, removed the excessive and vigorously grown wood from the plants along with vertically growing plants.
Do not harm the growing spur for the future growth of plants and a good next flowering season.
Also, removed the extra tangles from the plants along with the overgrown tangles.
Pest and Disease Management
Pest and disease management is essential to ensure healthy kiwi plants and maximize fruit production. In Kenya, like any agricultural region, kiwi orchards may encounter various pests and diseases that can affect plant health and reduce yields. Adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine preventive and control measures is the most effective and environmentally-friendly approach to managing pests and diseases.
Here are some common pests and diseases in kiwi fruit farming in Kenya and recommended management practices:
Common Pests:
- Thrips (Thrips spp.):Thrips are tiny insects that feed on kiwi leaves and buds, causing leaf curling and silvering. They can also transmit plant viruses.
- Management: Introduce predatory mites or insects that feed on thrips as natural enemies. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used for control.
- Scale Insects (Various species):Scale insects suck sap from the kiwi plant, weakening it and causing stunted growth and fruit deformation.
- Management: Apply horticultural oils to smother the scales or use insecticides targeted at the crawler stage for effective control.
- Spider Mites (Tetranychus spp.):These tiny mites feed on plant cells, leading to stippling and bronzing of kiwi leaves.
- Management: Increase humidity in the orchard to discourage mite activity. Release predatory mites or apply miticides if the infestation is severe.
- Fruit Fly (Dacus spp.):Fruit flies lay eggs in the ripening kiwi fruits, leading to fruit spoilage.
- Management: Use yellow sticky traps to monitor and capture adult flies. Apply bait sprays or fruit fly traps with attractants to reduce their population.
- Bacterial Canker (Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae):Bacterial canker causes sunken lesions on kiwi stems and can lead to dieback of shoots.
- Management: Remove and destroy infected plant material. Apply copper-based fungicides during the dormant season as a preventive measure.
- Powdery Mildew (Podosphaera aphanis):Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery growth on leaves and shoots, reducing photosynthesis and affecting fruit quality.
- Management: Maintain good airflow within the orchard through proper pruning and trellising. Apply sulfur or potassium bicarbonate-based fungicides to control mildew.
- Root Rot (Phytophthora spp.):Excessive soil moisture can lead to root rot, causing wilting and poor plant health.
- Management: Ensure proper soil drainage to prevent waterlogging. Avoid overwatering and use well-draining soils.
- Monitoring: Regularly inspect the kiwi plants for signs of pests and diseases to detect problems early and apply appropriate control measures promptly.
- Cultural Practices: Practices such as proper pruning, trellising, and weed control can enhance plant health and reduce pest and disease incidence.
- Biological Control: Introduce natural predators or beneficial insects that prey on pests as a form of biological control.
- Chemical Control: Use pesticides as a last resort and only when necessary. Choose pesticides with the least impact on beneficial organisms and the environment.
- Quarantine Measures: Implement quarantine measures to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases from outside sources.
Kiwi fruits are typically harvested when they reach full size but are still firm. They should be handled with care to avoid bruising and damage. After harvesting, the fruits should be stored in a cool and well-ventilated area to prolong their shelf life. Kiwis continue to ripen after harvest, so growers should consider the desired ripeness stage for the target market.
Benefit Of Kiwi Fruit
Here are some of the key benefits of kiwi fruit:
- Rich in Nutrients: Kiwi fruit is a nutritional powerhouse, containing essential vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E, and vitamin A. It also provides essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
- High in Fiber: Kiwi fruit is a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, aids in bowel movements, and helps prevent constipation.
- Antioxidant Properties: Kiwi fruit is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and E, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a significant role in protecting cells from oxidative damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Boosts Immunity: The high vitamin C content in kiwi fruit strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses.
- Supports Heart Health: Kiwi fruit is heart-friendly due to its potassium content, which helps regulate blood pressure and maintain cardiovascular health.
- Aids in Digestion: The enzyme actinidin found in kiwi fruit assists in the digestion of proteins, promoting better nutrient absorption and aiding in the digestion process.
- Improves Skin Health: The combination of antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin E in kiwi fruit contributes to healthy and radiant skin by combating skin-damaging free radicals.
- Supports Eye Health: Kiwi fruit contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two important compounds that promote eye health and may help protect against age-related macular degeneration.
- Helps Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Kiwi fruit has a low glycemic index, meaning it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This makes it a suitable option for individuals with diabetes.
- Weight Management: Kiwi fruit is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and satisfying option for those watching their weight.
- Natural Sleep Aid: Kiwi fruit is a good source of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in promoting better sleep quality and regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some studies suggest that kiwi fruit may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can benefit individuals with inflammatory conditions.
- Improves Respiratory Health: Research indicates that regular consumption of kiwi fruit may help reduce the symptoms of respiratory illnesses like asthma and wheezing.
- Bone Health: The vitamin K content in kiwi fruit supports bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis.
- Hydration: Kiwi fruit has high water content, contributing to hydration and aiding in maintaining fluid balance in the body.
Take Away
Kiwi fruit farming in Kenya presents an excellent opportunity for agricultural entrepreneurs seeking a profitable venture. With the right choice of varieties, suitable soil and climate conditions, and proper care, farmers can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these nutritious and delicious fruits.
While there are challenges to overcome, such as pest management and post-harvest handling, the rewards of kiwi fruit farming in Kenya make it a sweet and fulfilling journey for those willing to invest time and effort into this exciting horticultural endeavor.
Article Credit: https://farmerstrend.co.ke/trending/a-complete-guide-on-kiwi-fruit-farming-in-kenya-2/
