If you are you looking for a profitable farming venture, try cilantro farming in Kenya.
Cilantro is an aromatic herb. It is also known as coriander or dhania.
It is a staple food in Kenya. The crop is improving livelihoods of farmers.
This detailed guide will discuss how to grow Cilantro in Kenya’s rich soils.
I hope you are ready.
Let’s get started now.
Introduction to Cilantro Farming in Kenya
In Kenya, the herb called dhania is often used in various traditional foods.
(also known as Coriandrum sativum) is a leafy herb from the Apiaceae family.
It has a distinctive aroma and flavor.
Cilantro is used in various cuisines around the world.
The demand for the crop has increased in recent years.
Many places like restaurants, hotels, and homes are adding cilantro to their dishes.
Cilantro has medicinal and nutritional properties.
This food has lots of vitamins A, C, and K, plus minerals such as potassium and manganese.
Thus, creating a steady demand for fresh supplies.
Cilantro isn’t just good for cooking; it’s also healthy and helpful for your body.
Cilantro has lots of vitamins A, C, and K, plus minerals like potassium and manganese, offering a variety of nutrients.
Varieties of Cilantro Grown in Kenya
Before you venture into cilantro farming, choose the right variety for your conditions and market.
Here are three common cilantro varieties suitable for Kenyan soils.
Slow Bolt Cilantro
Its like slow bolt cilantro is a favorite among Kenyan farmers because of its delayed flowering characteristic.
It remains in the vegetative stage longer than other types. So it is the right variety for continuous leaf harvest.
What soils does it prefer?
Slow bolt cilantro grows well in Kenya’s cooler highland regions.
It is perfect for farmers looking to maintain a steady supply of fresh leaves throughout the growing season.
Leisure Cilantro
Leisure cilantro has flavorful leaves and robust growth.
This variety adapts to various climatic conditions in Kenya ranging from coastal regions to highlands.
Leisure cilantro’s attractive appearance and strong aroma make it a good choice for local markets and export.
Santo Cilantro
Santo cilantro is a fast-growing variety.
It is becoming popular in Kenya. It’s like because of its aromatic leaves and high seed yield.
This variety grows well in warm and cool climates, making it suitable for cultivation across different regions of Kenya.
Santo cilantro is liked by farmers who aim to harvest leaves and seeds.
Climatic and Soil Requirements for Cilantro Farming
What are the best growing conditions for cilantro?
Well, let’s explore the key climatic and soil requirements.
Climate
Cilantro thrives in cool to warm climates, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 27°C.
This temperature range is found in many regions in Kenya, particularly the highlands and areas with moderate climates.
Provide partial shade in warmer regions to prevent premature bolting and extend the harvesting period.
Altitude
Cilantro adapts well to different altitudes in Kenya, they grow between 1,000 to 2,000 meters above sea level.
This virtue makes it possible to be cultivated in different parts of the country, from the lower highlands to higher altitude regions.
Soil
Cilantro prefers well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter to grow well.
The soil should have good water retention while allowing excess water to drain freely.
Before planting the crop, ensure your soil is properly prepared and enriched with organic compost or well-rotted manure.
pH Range
Cilantro performs well in soil with a pH range between 6.2 and 7.5.
It’s recommended to test your soil pH before planting the crop and adjust if necessary.
In Kenya, many soils naturally fall within this range.
However, if your soil is too acidic, you can add agricultural lime to raise the pH.
Sunlight
Although cilantro requires full sun to grow well, it can tolerate partial shade, especially in very hot conditions.
Provide some afternoon in Kenya’s warmer regions shade to prevent bolting and extend the plant’s productive phase.
Land Preparation and Planting Cilantro
Before you plant your crops, make sure that the land is well prepared. There are lot of things involved in land preparation.
Let’s explore what is involved.
Here is what a farmer is expected to do.
Land Preparation
- Clear the land of weeds and debris to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
- Plough the soil to a depth of about 20-30 cm to make sure there is good aeration and root penetration.
- Harrow the soil to achieve a fine texture, which is ideal for the small cilantro seeds.
- Incorporate well-decomposed organic manure or compost into the soil at a rate of 10-15 tons per hectare to improve soil fertility and structure.
Propagation
Cilantro is grown from seeds.
So direct seeding in the field is the most common method used in Kenya.
This method allows for easier management and reduces transplant shock.
Planting time
Cilantro can be planted year-round in Kenya in areas with adequate irrigation.
However, for rainfed farming, plant your crops at the onset of the rainy season.
This means planting in March-April for the long rains and October-November for the short rains in most parts of Kenya.
Planting depth and spacing
Sow cilantro seeds at a depth of 1-2 cm. The crops should be spaced 15-20 cm apart, with rows spaced 30-40 cm apart.
This spacing allows for good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases, and makes harvesting easier.
Pro Tip: To ensure a continuous harvest, consider staggered planting.
Sow new seeds every 2-3 weeks for a consistent supply of fresh cilantro throughout the growing season.
Cilantro Plant Care and Management
Farmers should manage their crops properly. Proper crop management increases yields.
Let’s look at what is involved in plant care and management.
Watering
Cilantro needs consistent moisture, especially during germination and early growth stages.
So water the crops regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Irrigate your crops more frequently in drier regions or during dry spells. Install a drip irrigation system for efficient water use.
Mulching
Put organic mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.
In Kenya, farmers use rice straw, grass clippings, or well-rotted leaves as mulch materials.
Fertilization
Before planting your crop, apply well-rotted manure or compost to enrich the soil.
After planting the crop, top-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizers to promote leafy growth.
A balanced NPK fertilizer, 10-10-10, is applied at a rate of 200-250 kg/ha to boost overall plant health and productivity.
Weed control
Weeding is important. It gets rid of the weeds that compete with your crops for nutrients.
When should a farmer weed?
Weeding should be done during the first 3-4 weeks after planting.
From personal experience, hand weeding or shallow cultivation works well for cilantro.
However, avoid deep cultivation as it may damage the shallow roots.
Pest and disease management
What are the common pests affecting Cilantro in Kenya?
The common pests include aphids, cutworms, and leaf miners.
Use organic methods like neem oil sprays or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to control the pests.
Diseases to watch out for are powdery mildew and root rot.
Proper spacing, crop rotation, and avoiding overhead irrigation prevent diseases.
Use organic fungicides approved for herb production if diseases occur.
Thinning
Farmers should thin seedlings after 2-3 weeks to maintain the recommended spacing.
This enables stronger plants to develop and reduces competition for nutrients and water.
Harvesting Cilantro
Harvest your crops at the right time. Farmers should know when and how to harvest cilantro.
Harvesting the crop at the right time maintains quality and increases your yield.
Here’s what you need to do
Harvest time
For leaves: Cilantro leaves are usually ready for harvesting 3-4 weeks after sowing.
Look for plants that have reached a height of 10-15 cm with well-developed leaves.
For seeds: If you’re growing cilantro for its seeds (coriander), allow the plants to flower and set seed.
Seeds are typically ready for harvest 90-120 days after planting, when they turn brown and dry.
Harvesting techniques
Leaf harvest: Cut the outer leaves about 2 cm above the crown. This allows the inner leaves to continue growing.
This method promotes regrowth and extends your harvesting period.
Seed harvest: Once the seeds have turned brown, cut the entire plant and hang it upside down in a well-ventilated area.
Put a cloth or container underneath to catch falling seeds.
Post-harvest handling
Fresh leaves: After harvesting your crops, rinse the leaves gently in cool water to remove any dirt.
Store them in perforated plastic bags in a refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to a week.
Seeds: Dry the harvested seeds thoroughly in the shade.
Once they are completely dry, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
Pro Tip: Harvest cilantro leaves in the early morning when the essential oils are most concentrated for maximum flavor.
Cilantro Yield and Profit
Farmers should know the potential yield and profit of cilantro farming in Kenya. This information will help them in planning.
Let’s break down the numbers now.
Expected yield
Under optimal conditions and proper management,
Cilantro can yield around 1-2 tons of fresh leaves per acre per harvest under the best conditions and proper management.
Cost of production
Here are the costs associated with cilantro farming in Kenya.
- Land preparation
- Seeds (approximately 5-7 kg per acre)
- Labor for planting, weeding, and harvesting
- Irrigation (if necessary)
- Fertilizers and pest control measures
On average, the cost of production can range from KES 80,000 to KES 120,000 per acre on average.
However, this depends on your specific circumstances and inputs.
Profit
The profit of cilantro farming in Kenya is high.
Let’s look the basic breakdown.
- Average market price for fresh cilantro is KES 50-100 per kg (varies by season and market)
- Potential revenue from 1 acre (assuming 1.5 tons yield) is KES 75,000 – 150,000 per harvest
- With 3-4 harvests per year, annual revenue could range from KES 225,000 to KES 600,000 per acre
After subtracting production costs, net profit ranges from KES 145,000 to KES 480,000 per acre annually.
However, this depends on market prices and your efficiency.
Value addition opportunities
Consider these value addition strategies to increase your profit.
- Drying and packaging cilantro leaves for sale as a dried herb
- Selling cilantro seeds as a spice or for propagation
- Creating cilantro-based products like pesto or herbal teas
Value-added products fetch higher prices in local and international markets, potentially increasing your overall profit.
Marketing Cilantro in Kenya
Successful marketing is important. It maximizes your returns from cilantro farming.
Here are some strategies to consider
Local market
The demand for fresh cilantro in Kenya’s local markets is growing.
So target the following.
- Local grocery stores and supermarkets
- Restaurants and hotels
- Open-air markets
- Food processing companies
Have relationships with buyers to secure regular orders.
Join or form a farmers’ cooperative to increase your bargaining power and access larger markets.
Export market
Kenya has a favorable climate for cilantro production.
So it presents excellent export opportunities.
Key export markets.
- European Union countries
- Middle Eastern nations
- North America
How farmers can take advantage of these markets.
- Obtain necessary certifications. For example, Global GAP
- Partner with export companies or join export-oriented cooperatives
- Ensure consistent quality and supply
Value addition
Value-added cilantro products fetch higher prices and open up new market segments.
Considerations farmers can make.
- Dry and package cilantro leaves as a spice
- Produce cilantro-infused oils or vinegars
- Create ready-to-use cilantro paste
Pricing trends
What is the price of cilantro?
Well, fresh cilantro prices in Kenya range from KES 50-100 per kg in local markets.
While in export markets, they cost $1.5-$3 per kg (prices vary based on quality and market conditions)
Dried cilantro and cilantro seeds generally fetch higher prices, ranging from KES 300-500 per kg in local markets and $5-$8 per kg in export markets.
Pro Tip: listen to latest information about market trends and prices.
Build relationships with multiple buyers to ensure you always have a market for your produce.
Challenges Facing Cilantro Farming in Kenya
Although cilantro farming is profitable, it has challenges.
Let’s look at the challenges facing cilantro farmers in Kenya.
Weather sensitivity
Cilantro is sensitive to extreme temperatures.
High temperatures cause the plant to bolt (flower prematurely), which affect leaf quality and yield.
This is usually the main problem in lowland areas or during hot seasons in Kenya
Solution: Choose heat-tolerant varieties and provide partial shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Use shade nets in hot regions.
Pests and diseases
Pests like aphids and leaf miners damage cilantro crops.
Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew are dangerous in humid conditions.
Solution: Use integrated pest management strategies.
Buy resistant varieties when available, practice crop rotation, and apply organic pesticides when necessary.
Post-harvest management
Cilantro leaves wilt quickly after harvesting. So this leads to losses if not properly managed.
Solution: Harvest during cooler parts of the day, use proper cooling techniques, and ensure a quick farm-to-market supply chain.
Invest in cold storage facilities if targeting larger markets.
Market access
Small-scale farmers face challenges in accessing lucrative export markets because of certification requirements and minimum volume demands.
Solution: Join or form farmer cooperatives to pool resources and meet export requirements.
Explore partnerships with established exporters or larger farms.
Opportunities in Cilantro Farming in Kenya
Although the business has challenges, cilantro farming is a profitable agribusiness in Kenya.
Let’s explore the opportunities available.
Increasing demand
The demand for cilantro is growing locally and internationally. This means an increased market for your farm produce.
Organic farming
The export markets for organic farming is growing. Organic produce often high premium prices, offering higher profit margins for farmers.
Value addition
Process cilantro into value-added products like dried herbs, herbal teas, or essential oils to significantly increase profit.
These products have longer shelf lives and can reach wider markets.
Export potential
Kenya’s strategic location and favorable climate make it well-positioned to become a major exporter of cilantro to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
Kenyan farmers can take advantage of these lucrative markets if they acquire proper certifications.
Best Practices for Successful Cilantro Farming in Kenya
There are several practices of maximizing your yield.
What practices should we implement?
Well, let’s explore these practices.
Organic farming
Use organic farming practices to meet the rising demand for chemical-free produce.
Use compost, organic fertilizers, and natural pest control methods.
This approach also promotes soil health.
Irrigation management
Proper irrigation is critical for high quality cilantro and yield.
Install a drip irrigation system to ensure consistent moisture without waterlogging.
This method is water-efficient and reduces the risk of fungal diseases associated with wet foliage.
Crop rotation
Rotate cilantro withlegumes like beans or peas.
This practice prevents soil depletion, reduces the risk of pest and disease buildup, and can improve overall soil fertility.
Harvest timing
Time your harvests carefully to maximize yield and quality.
For leaf production, regularly harvest to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering.
For seed production, monitor closely and harvest promptly when seeds turn brown to prevent losses.
Final Thoughts on Cilantro Farming in Kenya
Cilantro farming is a golden opportunity for aspiring farmers in Kenya.
I have advice for you. Start with thorough market research before planting your first cilantro seed.
Spend some time to understand your target market.
Invest in quality seeds and irrigation. Buy high-quality, disease-resistant cilantro varieties ideal for your environment.
Implement an efficient irrigation system – drip irrigation to ensure consistent water supply.
Focus on soil health right from the start. Do a soil test and amend your soil accordingly.
Use organic farming practices where possible – use compost and natural fertilizers to build long-term soil fertility.
Hey, my name is Beatious Kahale. I Help farmers and investors in Kenya maximize their yields and profits – I offer practical crop farming tips. The guides target both beginners and experienced farmers. They guide farmers in their way to success in Kenya’s diverse agricultural landscape.