kenthefarmer
Lister
Are you looking for a profitable crop that grows fast and has a ready market? French beans might be the answer! In just 45-60 days, you can start harvesting and earning over Ksh 100,000 per acre. Let’s break it down step by step, from planting to harvest, and show you how to maximize your profits.
Why French Beans?
French beans are in high demand both locally and for export. Supermarkets, local markets, and exporters like KHE and Frigo Ken are always looking for fresh, high-quality produce. Whether you’re a small-scale or large-scale farmer, this crop offers great potential.
Best Varieties to Grow
Choosing the right variety is key to success. Here are some popular ones in Kenya:
Amy: Known for high yields and uniform pods.
Monel: Perfect for export due to its slender pods.
Samantha: Heavy producer with early maturity.
Ogula: Adapts well to different climates and soils. (Mostly planted by frigo Ken export company)
Pick a variety based on your target market and growing conditions.
Growing French Beans: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Planting
French beans thrive in well-drained soils with moderate rainfall or irrigation.
Prepare the land, add organic manure, and plant seeds 30 cm apart in rows.
2. Irrigation
On this farm, furrow irrigation is used. It’s affordable and keeps the soil moist, especially during critical stages like flowering and podding. Other options include drip irrigation, which is ideal for saving water.
3. Growth Stages
Germination (7-10 days): Seeds sprout after planting.
Vegetative Growth (2-3 weeks): Leaves and stems grow.
Budding (Week 4): Flower buds appear.
Flowering (Week 5): Flowers bloom and pods begin forming.
Podding (Week 6): Pods grow and mature, ready for harvest.
4. Pests and Diseases
French beans face several challenges, but you can manage them with proper care.
Pests:
Thrips: Cause silvery patches on leaves. Use recommended insecticides.
Bean Fly: Wilts plants by laying eggs on stems. Early sprays help control them.
Vine Devil (Weevil): Eats leaves and stems. Use pesticides or biological controls.
Diseases:
Rust: Brown spots on leaves. Treat with fungicides like Mancozeb.
Powdery Mildew: White coating on leaves. Use sulfur-based fungicides.
Angular Leaf Spot: Brown lesions on leaves. Use crop rotation and fungicides.
Anthracnose: Dark spots on pods and leaves. Use copper-based fungicides.
Harvesting and Market Potential
French beans are ready for harvest 45-60 days after planting. Harvest every 2-3 days while the pods are tender to ensure continuous production.
Yields Per Acre
Expect to harvest 4-5 tons (4,000-5,000 kg) per acre with good management.
Prices
Prices range from Ksh 40 to Ksh 200 per kilo, depending on market demand and quality.
Contract Farming Opportunities
If you want a guaranteed market, consider contract farming. Companies like KHE and Frigo Ken provide seeds, farming guidance, and buy your produce at pre-agreed prices. This is a great way to reduce risks and focus on farming.
Why Wait? Start Farming Today!
French beans farming is a golden opportunity for Kenyan farmers.
Do you have questions or experiences to share? Let’s discuss in the comments. And if you need more farming tips, keep an eye on this space. Happy farming!
~village investor