There are many factors to consider when planting potatoes in Kenya. One of the most important factors is the time of year to plant potatoes. In this blog post, we will explore what is the best month to plant potatoes in Kenya in addition to essential factors you need to take into account when planting potatoes to succeed in Kenya.
The best month to plant potatoes in Kenya is around December, so you harvest them in February or March when there is a short supply and prices are favourable.
Irish potatoes take 21 to 27 days to germinate after sowing the seeds and grow to maturity after 70 to 120 days, depending on the variety and altitude in Kenya.
Production of Irish Potatoes Per Acre in Kenya
In Kenya, the good production of Irish potatoes will depend on good agricultural practices on both small and large-scale farms.
For instance, on an acre of land, a farmer can produce about 80 bags of Irish potatoes if the following four practices are considered by the farmer during planting:
1. Consider red soil away from rivers to prevent frost bites.
2. Prepare the land by mixing well-matured manure in the planting furrows.
3. You should buy certified potato seeds.
4. Apply fertilizer, pesticides and fungicides for blight.
Regions Where Irish Potatoes are Grown in Kenya
Irish potatoes grow in a wide range of climatic conditions and slightly acidic soils that are well drained.
The growing areas of Irish potatoes in Kenya include the following counties: Nyandarua, Nakuru, Elgeyo Marakwet, Meru, Nyeri, Kiambu, Taita Taveta, Narok, Bomet, Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot, Kisii, Nyamira, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Baringo, Nandi, Laikipia, and Kericho.
Related Articles
What Is The Best Fertilizer For Potatoes In Kenya?
