Cotton farming in Kenya began to thrive around Lake Victoria. It was started by local farmers around those areas. Cotton has not been among the most leading cash crops in Kenya in recent years.
Kenya has one of the best textile industries in Africa. Most of the cotton farming done in Kenya is small-scale farming.
The institution that is in charge of cotton farming in Kenya is the Cotton Development Authority that replaced the Cotton Board of Kenya.
Table of Contents
Areas For Good Cotton Farming In Kenya
To grow Cottin in Kenya, here are some of the good areas to start:
- Western
- Nyanza
- Rift valley
- Coastal areas
- Eastern
Best Condition For Growing Profitable Cotton In Kenya
Cotton can actually be grown on a variety of soils in Kenya. Cotton can be grown in desert areas under irrigation.
The following are the best conditions for Cotton Farming Kenya:
- It grows on a low land below 1000m
- The optimum temperature should be about 34 degrees Celcius
- Average rainfall of about 800-1200mm
- Sunshine
Methods To Improve Your Cotton Business
To improve your Kenyan Cotton Farming, here are some good methods to apply:
- Rejuvenation of hectares of land to constantly ensure and maintain the fertility of the land
- Production of quality seeds. Farmers should be provided with quality planting seeds.
- The Cotton Development Authority of Kenya should look into the matter to ensure that there are water management and proper irrigation schemes.
- Farmers are advised to follow the correct time of planting
- Regular ratooning of cotton. The cotton branches should be used as manure.
- Intercropping. Planting other crops like beans alongside the cotton ensures fertility of the soil hence ensuring high yields
- New varieties of cotton seeds should be available to allow farmers to choose what is best for them.
- Fertilizers are to be applied to enhance crop yields and quality.
Challenges Facing Cotton Growing In Kenya
Below are some challenges you can face in Cotton Farming production:
1. Low yields. This may be due to the poor quality of seeds provided or it could be a lack of proper cotton education among the cotton farmers.
2. High cost of inputs for cotton production in Kenya.
For instance, the cost of weeding, planting, fertilizers, and so much more.
3. Distribution of substandard agrochemicals.
For example, the availability of poor quality fertilizers and pesticides.
4. Weak marketing chain.
Since most farmers do small-scale cotton farming, the cotton available in the market is not enough to export.
5. Lack of irrigation facilities.
With the collapse of Bura and Hola, there has been a problem with water management. Cotton grows well under rainfall.
6. Inadequate research extension facilities.
Farmers have to be regularly educated on how to manage cotton growing for quality yields, and we are here to share with you everything you may need.
[display-posts]