Kericho County is located in the southern part of Kenya and is renowned for its vast tea plantations. However, tea is not the only crop that thrives in this region. Kericho has a conducive climate and fertile soils that support the growth of a wide range of valuable crops. In this article, we will explore the top valuable crops grown in Kericho County.
Tea
Tea is undoubtedly the most significant crop in Kericho County. The region is home to some of the largest tea plantations in the world, covering over 68,000 hectares. The high altitude, well-drained soils, and consistent rainfall in the region provide ideal conditions for the cultivation of tea. The two main types of tea grown in Kericho are black tea and green tea. Tea is a valuable cash crop that provides income to thousands of smallholder farmers in the region.
Coffee
Coffee is another valuable crop grown in Kericho County. The region’s high altitude and volcanic soils provide excellent conditions for coffee farming. Most of the coffee grown in the region is of the Arabica variety, which is known for its high quality and distinct flavor. Coffee farming provides employment to thousands of smallholder farmers in Kericho, making it a significant contributor to the local economy.
Maize
Maize is one of the most widely grown crops in Kericho County. It is a staple food for most Kenyans and is also used for animal feed. The region’s fertile soils and favorable climate allow for the cultivation of high-yielding maize varieties. Maize farming is particularly popular among smallholder farmers, who sell their harvest to local markets or to larger-scale traders.
Avocado
Avocado farming has become increasingly popular in Kericho County in recent years. The region’s mild temperatures and high altitude provide favorable conditions for the cultivation of avocados. The Hass variety is the most commonly grown avocado in the region, and it is in high demand both locally and internationally. Avocado farming has provided a new source of income for smallholder farmers in Kericho, and it is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
Beans
Beans are another staple crop grown in Kericho County. They are rich in protein and are a vital source of nutrition for many Kenyans. The region’s fertile soils and favorable climate allow for the cultivation of high-yielding bean varieties. Beans are also a valuable cash crop, and farmers in Kericho sell their harvest to local markets and traders.
Potential crops that can do well in Kericho County but are rarely grown include fruits such as passion fruit, pineapples, and mangoes. These crops require specific growing conditions, but with proper management, they can thrive in Kericho’s climate and soils. Other potential crops include vegetables such as carrots, onions, and tomatoes, which are in high demand both locally and internationally. By diversifying their crops, farmers in Kericho can increase their income and improve food security in the region.
