Maize farming is one of the most important agricultural activities in Kenya, contributing significantly to food security and the national economy.
Learn about maize farming in Kenya and its contribution to food security and the national economy. Discover the various aspects of maize farming, including varieties, planting techniques, nutrient management, pest control, irrigation, harvesting, and marketing.
Understand the challenges and opportunities in maize farming and explore its future directions in Kenya.
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Climate and Soil Requirements for Maize Farming in Kenya
Climate Requirements
Maize is a warm-season crop that requires a minimum temperature of 10-15°C for germination and growth.
In Kenya, the ideal climate for maize farming is found in areas with an altitude ranging from 900 to 2,500 meters above sea level.
These areas have a mean annual rainfall of 600 to 1,200 mm, which is well distributed throughout the growing season. However, maize can also be grown in drier areas with the help of irrigation.
Soil Requirements
Maize can grow well in a wide range of soils, but it performs best in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
The soil should have good organic matter content, which improves soil fertility and water-holding capacity. In areas with high rainfall, soils should be well-drained to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to poor crop growth and yield.
Soil testing is recommended to determine the nutrient status of the soil and to guide fertilizer application.
Varieties of Maize Cultivated in Kenya
Kenya is a diverse country with various ecological zones, each with its unique maize varieties. Some of the common maize varieties grown in Kenya include:
Hybrid Maize
Hybrid maize is a cross between two different types of maize plants that produce plants with specific traits, such as higher yields, improved resistance to pests and diseases, and better drought tolerance. Some popular hybrid maize varieties grown in Kenya are H624, H614, and H512.
Open-Pollinated Varieties (OPVs)
Open-pollinated maize varieties are those that have not undergone genetic modifications and rely on natural pollination by wind, insects, and other natural factors. They are adaptable to a wide range of environmental conditions and have been grown in Kenya for many generations. Some popular OPVs in Kenya are Katumani, MH18, and PH4.
High-Altitude Maize
High-altitude maize varieties are adapted to cooler temperatures and higher altitudes. They take longer to mature but produce high yields. Some popular high-altitude maize varieties grown in Kenya are Longe 5, H614, and H621.
Quality Protein Maize (QPM)
Quality protein maize varieties are a special type of maize with higher protein content and better-quality amino acids than regular maize. They are grown in Kenya to address malnutrition and improve the nutritional status of vulnerable groups. Some popular QPM varieties in Kenya are Mwaiwathu, Makueni, and KDV4.
Farmers in Kenya choose the maize variety to grow based on their specific needs, such as the soil type, climate, market demand, and farming practices. The government and agricultural research institutions provide guidance on the appropriate maize varieties to grow in different regions to achieve maximum yields and profits.
Land Preparation for Maize Farming in Kenya
Land preparation is a critical step in maize farming in Kenya, and proper preparation can contribute to higher maize yields and better crop quality.
Clearing the Land
Before planting maize, the land needs to be cleared of any bushes, trees, or grass. This is done by either manual, mechanical, or Non-selective Herbicide means. Manual land preparation involves using hoes, machetes, or slashers to cut down bushes and trees, while mechanical land preparation involves using tractors or plows to clear the land.
USE CATAPULT 480 SL at 250ml in 20L of water, non-selective post-emergence herbicides, to control Annual and perennial grasses and broad-leaf weeds. Use during Land preparation to clear all weeds. WEMBE 300 SL at 300ml in 20L of water, non-selective post-emergence herbicides for control of Annual and perennial grasses and broad-leaf weeds. Use during Land preparation to clear all weeds especially those tougher weeds such as purslane, oxalis, etc.
Tillage
After clearing the land, the soil needs to be tilled to prepare a suitable seedbed for maize planting. Tilling involves loosening the soil and breaking up any clumps of soil to create a smooth and even surface. This can be done using a disc harrow, chisel plough, or cultivator.
Soil Fertility Enhancement
Maize requires fertile soil for optimal growth and yields. Before planting, the soil should be tested to determine its nutrient content. If the soil lacks essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, fertilizers should be applied to enhance soil fertility.
Organic fertilizers, such as manure and compost, are preferred over synthetic fertilizers due to their sustainability and affordability.
Soil pH Adjustment
Maize grows best in soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. If the soil pH is too low or too high, it can affect maize growth and yields. Lime or sulfur can be added to adjust the soil pH to the optimal range for maize cultivation.
Ridge and Furrow System
In areas with high rainfall or poorly drained soils, a ridge and furrow system can be used to improve soil drainage and reduce waterlogging.
This system involves planting maize on raised ridges and leaving furrows in between. The ridges provide a suitable planting bed for maize while the furrows allow excess water to drain away.
Planting Techniques for Maize Farming in Kenya
Planting is one of the crucial steps in maize farming that determines the yield and quality of the crop. The following are the planting techniques that farmers in Kenya use for maize farming:
Time of planting
Maize is usually planted in Kenya during the start of the rainy season. The ideal time for planting is at the beginning of the rainy season to ensure that there is enough moisture in the soil. In some regions, farmers plant two or three times a year to take advantage of the available rainfall.
Spacing
Proper spacing is important for maximizing the yield of maize. The recommended spacing for maize in Kenya is 75cm between rows and 30cm between plants. However, the spacing can be adjusted depending on the variety, soil fertility, and rainfall.
Depth of planting
Maize should be planted at a depth of 5-10cm. Planting too shallow can lead to poor germination while planting too deep can lead to delayed emergence and poor growth.
Seed rate
The recommended seed rate for maize in Kenya is 8-10 kg per acre. However, this can vary depending on the variety, spacing, and soil fertility.
Planting methods
There are different planting methods used in maize farming in Kenya, including drilling, broadcasting, and dibbling.
Drilling involves making furrows in the soil using a tractor or hand hoe, placing the seed in the furrow, and covering it with soil.
Broadcasting involves spreading the seed on the soil surface and covering it with soil using a hoe or rake.
Dibbling involves making small holes in the soil using a stick or dibble, placing the seed in the hole, and covering it with soil.
Pre-planting treatment
Some farmers in Kenya treat their maize seeds before planting to control pests and diseases, increase germination rates, and improve plant growth.
Treatment methods include soaking the seeds in water, applying fungicides or insecticides, and using biofertilizers.
By using appropriate planting techniques, farmers in Kenya can ensure optimal maize growth and yield, leading to increased income and food security.
Nutrient Management in Maize Farming in Kenya
Maize farming in Kenya requires careful management of fertilizers to ensure optimum yields. Both basal and foliar fertilizers are recommended for maize farming in Kenya. Basal fertilizers are applied at the time of planting, while foliar fertilizers are applied after the crop has emerged.
Basal Fertilizer Application
During planting, a teaspoonful of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizer should be placed into each planting hole, mixed thoroughly with the soil, and then the seeds placed. Alternatively, well-calibrated planters with fertilizer hoppers can be used for mechanical planting. The fertilizer can also be mixed with soil before planting at a rate of 50kg per acre. DAP contains phosphorus, which is essential for root development. It is important to ensure that the fertilizer is thoroughly mixed with the soil to prevent burning of the seeds.
Mix 1 kg of Humipower with 50 kg bag of basal fertilizer and apply the blend during planting or top-dressing.
Foliar Fertilizer Application During Early Stages
Foliar fertilizers are applied to the leaves of the maize plants. A foliar fertilizer that is recommended for maize farming in Kenya is GOLDCHANCE SUPER START®. This phosphorous-rich fertilizer promotes early crop establishment and should be applied to the young plants at a rate of 50 g per 20L of water.
Top Dressing Fertilizer Application
Top dressing with Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) fertilizer should be done after 2-3 weeks after planting or when the crop is 45cm or 1.5ft high. Apply 1 teaspoonful of CAN fertilizer at the base of each plant in a ring or along the row, about 15 cm away from the plant.
In high rainfall areas, top dressing is done in two splits, with the first split done 6 weeks after sowing and the second split done 10-15 days later or just before tasseling. In low rainfall areas, fertilizer is applied once, at a rate of 50-100Kg per acre.
CAN fixes nitrogen in the soil, which is essential for the green color of the leaves and for the plant to produce its own food. Other nitrogenous fertilizers like urea can also be used.
Foliar Fertilizer Application During Vegetative Growth
To promote vigorous vegetative growth of the crop, maize farmers in Kenya should spray their crops with LAVENDER TOTAL . This fertilizer should be applied at a rate of 20ml per 20L of water.
Foliar Fertilizer Application During Flowering and Grain Filling Stages
During the flowering and grain-filling stages, maize farmers in Kenya should spray their crops with GOLDCHANCE SUPER FLOWERS & FRUITS®. This fertilizer should be applied at a rate of 50 g per 20 litres of water to promote quality and quantity production.
The timely application of fertilizers is crucial for successful maize farming in Kenya. Farmers should ensure that they apply the recommended basal, top dressing, and foliar fertilizers at the appropriate times to ensure optimum yields.
Additionally, farmers should use high-quality fertilizers and ensure that they are well-mixed with the soil or water. With careful management of fertilizers, maize farming in Kenya can be a profitable enterprise.
Pest and Disease Control in Maize Farming in Kenya
Pests
Maize farming in Kenya faces several pest challenges which can lead to significant crop loss if not managed effectively.
One of the most devastating pests is the fall armyworm. This pest attacks the crop at seedling, vegetative, flowering, and fruiting growth stages, and its rapid spread and damage potential can cause up to 100% crop loss.
To control the fall armyworm, farmers can use insecticides such as OCCASION STAR® 200SC at 2.5-5ml in 20L of water or ESCORT® 19EC at 20ml in 20L of water. It is advisable to apply the insecticides in the evening or early in the morning for effective control since fall armyworms are nocturnal.
Another pest that affects maize farming in Kenya is the stalk borer. The larvae of this pest are caterpillars that feed on leaves and find their way into the stalk of the plant, feed on the stalk tissues, and make the stalk weak. They also tunnel into maize cobs, causing significant losses.
To control the stalk borer, farmers can use insecticides such as PROFILE® 440EC at 30ml in 20L of water or OCCASION STAR® 200SC at 2.5-5ml in 20L of water
Maize aphids are soft-bodied insects that feed by piercing and sucking. Heavy infestation by these aphids causes leaves to curl and become distorted, and the plant also becomes stunted.
As they feed, they secrete honeydew, which encourages the development of sooty mold that lowers the rate of photosynthesis, especially if on the leaves. Aphids are also vectors of viral diseases.
To control maize aphids, farmers can use insecticides such as KINGCODE ELITE® 50EC at 10ml in 20L of water.
Cutworms are also common in maize farming in Kenya. They are found in the soil and attack the stems of young plants.
Farmers can control cutworms by drenching the soil with insecticides such as PROFILE® 440EC
Diseases
Maize farming in Kenya also faces several disease challenges that can cause significant crop loss if not managed effectively.
One such disease is Maize Lethal Necrosis Disease (MLND), which is a combination of two viral diseases that can attack the crop at any stage of growth and development.
Infection is shown by the appearance of chlorotic mottling on leaves, which starts from the older to the younger leaves. Leaves also show marginal necrosis, which extends to the midrib as the infection advances, eventually causing the leaf to die. Dead hearts are also common.
To control MLND, farmers should control vectors such as aphids, thrips, and leaf beetles, and ensure proper nutrition.
Maize smut is another disease that affects maize farming in Kenya. It is a soil-borne disease that is manifested in the tassel or kernel of the crop, causing severe crop losses.
The infection causes the formation of whitish galls/swellings, which rupture, releasing dark spores.
To control maize smut, farmers can drench the soil with fungicides such as ABSOLUTE STAR 400 SC or GREEN COP® 500WP.
Northern leaf blight is also a common disease in maize farming in Kenya.
The infection starts as gray-green lesions on the leaves, which turn pale gray as the infection progresses.
To control northern leaf blight, farmers can use fungicides such as GEARLOCK TURBO® 250WP
Tip! To minimize the impact of pests and diseases on maize farming in Kenya, farmers can use certified seeds, resistant varieties, and practice crop rotation.
Weed Management in Maize Farming in Kenya
Weeds are one of the major constraints in maize farming, and they can significantly reduce yields if not controlled. Weed management involves the use of cultural, mechanical, or chemical methods to prevent or control weed infestation.
Effective weed management is crucial to achieve optimal maize yields and to reduce competition for nutrients, water, and light.
Mechanical and Manual Weeding
Mechanical or manual weeding is a traditional and widely used method of weed management in maize farming. It involves the use of hoes or other hand tools to remove weeds manually from the fields.
The first weeding should be done within the 3rd week after planting, or as per the growth of weed in the area.
This helps to control early weed growth and prevent competition with the maize crop. Subsequent weeding should be done at intervals of 2-3 weeks depending on the rate of weed growth.
Herbicide Use in Weed Management
The use of herbicides is a more efficient and cost-effective method of weed management in maize farming. Herbicides can be used to control weeds in pure stand maize, reducing the labor required for manual weeding.
Herbicides are mainly grouped into two, pre-emergence herbicides and post-emergence herbicides.
Nonselective herbicides such as CATAPULT 480 SL at 250ml in 20L of water, and selective post-emergence herbicides, to control Annual and perennial grasses and broad-leaf weeds. Use during Land preparation to clear all weeds.
Early pre and Post-emergence herbicides such as GOVERNOR® 580 SE at 250ml in 20L of water, control weeds before they germinate and start competing with maize. It eradicates broad-leaf and annual grasses in maize including weeds resistant to acetolactate synthase (ALS), Triazine & glyphosates. Controls weeds with one application as a pre-emergence and early post-emergence.
Pre-Emergence Application: As for the cultivation i.e. immediately after planting or sowing your maize seeds but not emerged from the soil which is well moisted for effective weed management.
Post-emergence: After the crops have emerged from the soil up to 2-3 leaf stage. Weeds should be actively growing.
Maintaining Weed-Free Fields
It is important to keep the field weed-free until the maize tasselling stage, after which their presence might not cause crop loss. This is because the maize crop has reached its maturity, and competition for nutrients, water, and light is reduced.
Therefore, weed management should be carried out regularly to achieve the best yields and prevent weed infestation in the fields.
In conclusion, weed management is an essential aspect of maize farming in Kenya, and it should be carried out using appropriate methods.
Manual or mechanical weeding can be used in small-scale farming, while herbicides are more effective for large-scale farming. Maize farmers should be careful when using herbicides to avoid any negative impacts on the environment and human health.
Harvesting, Post-Harvest Handling, and Storage of Maize in Kenya
Maize is a major staple crop in Kenya and is harvested after 3-4 months for the short season varieties and up to 10 months or more for the long season varieties. Harvesting can be done while the maize is green or when dry. The choice of harvesting method depends on the intended use of the maize.
Harvesting Techniques
Cobs are harvested either by hand or by use of mechanized harvesters such as combine harvesters. Mechanized harvesting is faster and more efficient, but requires expensive equipment which may not be affordable to most small-scale farmers in Kenya. Hand harvesting is labor-intensive but allows for selective harvesting of only mature cobs.
Post-Harvest Handling
Maize should be properly dried before storage to prevent spoilage due to fungal growth or insect infestation. Proper drying of maize also helps to preserve the quality of the grain. Farmers can dry maize in the sun or in a mechanical dryer. In wet seasons, it is recommended to dry maize in a mechanical dryer to avoid losses due to fungal growth.
Storage Techniques
To preserve maize after harvest, farmers should treat their maize against storage pests such as weevils or use treated gunny bags. Use of President Gold® 20DP is an excellent broad-spectrum post-harvest grains storage dusting powder insecticide for control of Larger grain borer (Osama), weevil, and Red flour beetle on stored grains at 50g per 50kg dried grains
This increases the shelf-life of the maize and reduces the risk of post-harvest losses. It is also important to store the maize in clean and dry storage places or silos to prevent fungal disease attack and to control storage pests like weevils.
Maize can be stored in airtight containers or bags to prevent the entry of pests and moisture. Grain bags or hermetic bags can also be used to store maize, and they are effective in controlling pests and fungal growth. It is important to ensure that the storage containers are well ventilated to prevent the build-up of moisture, which can lead to mold growth.
In conclusion, Harvesting, post-harvest handling, and storage of maize in Kenya are critical stages in maize production. Proper harvesting, drying, and storage techniques can help to minimize post-harvest losses and ensure food security. Farmers should adopt appropriate storage techniques and invest in good storage facilities to protect their maize from pests and fungal diseases.
Challenges and Opportunities in Maize Farming in Kenya
Maize farming in Kenya faces numerous challenges that have hindered its growth and development. However, there are also significant opportunities that could be harnessed to increase productivity and profitability.
Climate Change and Variability
Climate change and variability are major challenges facing maize farmers in Kenya. Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and flooding have significantly affected crop yields, leading to food insecurity and poverty. Climate-smart agricultural practices, such as crop diversification, water harvesting, and soil conservation, could help mitigate the effects of climate change and increase maize productivity.
Poor Seed Quality
The availability of high-quality seed is a major constraint to maize farming in Kenya. Most farmers rely on uncertified or recycled seed, which often leads to low yields, susceptibility to pests and diseases, and poor grain quality. Access to certified seed and the promotion of seed production by smallholder farmers could improve the quality and quantity of maize production.
Pests and Diseases
Maize is susceptible to numerous pests and diseases, such as stem borers, armyworms, and maize lethal necrosis disease, which can cause significant losses to farmers. Integrated pest and disease management, including the use of resistant varieties, biological control, and cultural practices, could help control these pests and diseases and reduce crop losses.
Inadequate Storage and Post-Harvest Handling
Inadequate storage and post-harvest handling facilities and practices have been a long-standing challenge for maize farmers in Kenya. Poor storage facilities and practices often lead to high post-harvest losses, reduced grain quality, and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
Improvements in storage facilities and post-harvest handling practices, such as proper drying, cleaning, and storage, could help reduce losses and improve grain quality.
Limited Access to Credit and Markets
Maize farmers in Kenya often face limited access to credit and markets, which affects their ability to invest in inputs, technology, and infrastructure. This limits their productivity and profitability, as well as their potential to participate in regional and international markets.
Government interventions, such as the establishment of credit facilities and market linkages, could help address these challenges and improve maize farming in Kenya.
Opportunities for Maize Farming in Kenya
Despite the challenges facing maize farming in Kenya, there are also significant opportunities that could be harnessed to increase productivity and profitability.
Value Addition
There are significant opportunities for value addition in the maize sector, such as the production of flour, animal feed, and biofuels. This could create employment, increase income, and promote industrialization in Kenya.
Technology Adoption
The adoption of modern technologies, such as precision farming, digital agriculture, and biotechnology, could significantly increase maize productivity and profitability in Kenya. These technologies could also help mitigate the effects of climate change and improve the quality and quantity of maize production.
Regional and International Markets
Maize farming in Kenya has significant potential to participate in regional and international markets. The country’s strategic location, coupled with its abundant maize production, could make it a regional hub for maize trade.
Improvements in infrastructure, market access, and trade policies could help Kenya tap into these markets and increase its maize exports.
In conclusion, maize farming in Kenya faces numerous challenges, but there are also significant opportunities that could be harnessed to increase productivity and profitability.
Addressing the challenges of climate change, poor seed quality, pests and diseases, inadequate storage and post-harvest handling, and limited access to credit and markets, while harnessing the opportunities of value addition, technology adoption, and regional and international markets, could help transform maize farming in Kenya and contribute to the country’s economic development.
Conclusion and Future Directions for Maize Farming in Kenya
In conclusion, maize farming is an important agricultural activity in Kenya, both for subsistence and commercial purposes.
With the right management practices, maize farming can be profitable and contribute to food security in the country.
However, there are still several challenges that need to be addressed in order to ensure sustainable maize production and enhance the livelihoods of farmers.
Challenges
One of the main challenges facing maize farming in Kenya is the high cost of inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, which limits the ability of smallholder farmers to increase their yields and profitability.
Additionally, maize farmers in Kenya face frequent droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events, which can lead to crop failure and loss of income.
Another challenge is the prevalence of pests and diseases such as the maize stalk borer and maize lethal necrosis disease, which can cause significant yield losses if not managed effectively.
Future Directions
To address these challenges, there is a need to promote sustainable maize farming practices that are adapted to the local agro-ecological conditions.
This includes the development of drought-tolerant maize varieties that are better adapted to the changing climate, as well as the use of integrated pest management strategies to reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides.
Additionally, there is a need to promote soil fertility management practices such as the use of organic fertilizers and conservation agriculture to improve soil health and reduce the cost of inputs.
Opportunities
Despite these challenges, there are several opportunities for the growth and development of maize farming in Kenya.
The country has a large domestic market for maize, as well as potential for export to neighboring countries in the region.
Moreover, there is growing demand for value-added maize products such as fortified flours and snacks, which can provide additional income streams for farmers.
Finally, the government of Kenya has made significant investments in agricultural research and extension services, which can help to promote the adoption of improved maize farming practices and technologies among smallholder farmers.
In conclusion, while there are still several challenges facing maize farming in Kenya, there are also opportunities for growth and development.
By adopting sustainable farming practices, investing in research and extension services, and promoting value addition and market linkages, the maize sector in Kenya can contribute significantly to food security and rural development in the country.
