Lavender Farming in Kenya: An Opportunity for Farmers

If you are you in search of a lucrative and distinctive agricultural opportunity in Kenya, try lavender farming.

It is a fragrant herb with a calming smell and many uses. This herb is becoming popular with Kenyan farmers.

It is an opportunity for great farmers and small investors to diversify and earn more.

This guide will talk about lavender farming in Kenya, from planting to selling your lavender products.

This blog post has useful tips to help you begin farming lavender.

Introduction to Lavender Farming in Kenya

Lavender is grown in many places, especially in warm, sunny regions like Mediterranean countries. 

For example, France, Spain, and Italy.

Today, this sweet-smelling plant is grown in the rich land of Kenya, giving farmers a new and thrilling chance.

Kenya has many different weather areas, from cool mountains to warm shores. 

And they are great for growing many varieties of lavender.

The Central Highlands and parts of the Rift Valley provide the ideal altitude for growing lavender.

Reasons why lavender is becoming popular.

• Growing demand for natural and organic products
• Increased awareness of aromatherapy and its benefits
• Rising interest in lavender-based cosmetics and personal care products
• Potential for agritourism and value-added products

Lavender is a profitable crop in Kenya.

It has many uses. It supports different ways to earn money. 

For example, making essential oils and selling dried flowers that are good for cooking and decorating.

Lavender farming can make money for small and big farmers with careful planning and control.

Understanding Lavender Varieties

To do well in growing lavender, you need to know about the varieties and pick the ones that fit your area and what you plan to use them for.

Common Lavender Species

Globally, there are several popular lavender species.

1. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): It has a sweet fragrance and high-quality essential oil.
2. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata): Has toothed leaves and a longer flowering period.
3. Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): A hybrid variety with high essential oil yield.

Recommended Varieties for Kenya

When selecting lavender varieties for cultivation in Kenya, consider the following factors.

• The altitude and climate of your farm
• Intended use of the lavender (essential oil, dried flowers, or ornamental)
• Resistance to pests and diseases common in your area

Some varieties that have shown promise in Kenya.

• Grosso: It has a high essential oil yield and adaptability to various climates.
• Hidcote: An English lavender variety that performs well at higher altitudes and produces high-quality essential oil.
• Provence: Another variety that’s drought-resistant and suitable for warmer regions.

Pro Tip: Before investing in a large-scale plantation, start with small test plots of different varieties to determine which ones perform best in your location.

Agro-Climatic Requirements for Lavender Farming

You should know how to grow lavender well. This is important if want a bumper harvest.

Let’s explore the key factors that influence lavender growth.

Temperature

Lavender thrives in moderate temperatures, typically between 15°C and 25°C. 

This temperature range is often found in highland areas and regions with cooler microclimates.

Rainfall

Lavender prefers low to moderate rainfall, ideally between 300mm to 800mm annually. 

Excessive rainfall can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.

So areas with well-distributed but not excessive rainfall are ideal.

Soil Conditions

Well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 are the best for lavender cultivation. 

The plant doesn’t tolerate waterlogged conditions. So good drainage is necessary.

Altitude

In Kenya, lavender grows well at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 meters above sea level. 

These elevations provide the cooler temperatures and lower humidity that lavender prefers.

Ideal Regions in Kenya

Kenya has some good areas for growing lavender.

1. Central Kenya: Nyeri, Laikipia, and Nyandarua offer ideal altitudes and soil conditions.
2. Rift Valley: Regions around Nakuru and Eldoret provide suitable climatic conditions.
3. Mount Kenya region: The slopes of Mount Kenya offer various microclimates suitable for different lavender varieties.
4. Coastal regions: Some heat-tolerant lavender varieties can grow in good soil drainage near the coast.

Land Preparation and Planting

Good soil preparation is key to growing a strong lavender plant.

Here’s how to get your land ready for lavender cultivation.

Selecting the right land

Choose a plot with the following characteristics

• Gentle slope for good drainage
• Full sun exposure (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily)
• Protection from strong winds

Soil testing and preparation

1. Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content.
2. If necessary, amend the soil with lime to achieve the ideal pH of 6.5-7.5.
3. Clear the land of weeds and debris.
4. Plow the soil to a depth of about 30 cm to ensure good aeration and drainage.
5. If soil fertility is low, incorporate well-rotted manure or compost.

Creating raised beds

Raised beds are beneficial for lavender cultivation as they improve drainage.

1. Create beds about 1 meter wide and 15-20 cm high.
2. Leave pathways of 50-60 cm between beds for easy access.

Planting methods

Lavender can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division.

• Seeds: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant when seedlings are 7-10 cm tall.
• Cuttings: Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy plants and root them in a well-draining medium.
• Division: Divide mature plants in early spring or fall.

Plant lavender at a spacing of 30-45 cm within rows and 90-120 cm between rows, depending on the variety.

Pro Tip: In Kenya, the best time to plant lavender is at the beginning of the dry season. 

This allows plants to establish strong root systems before the rainy season.

Crop Management Practices

Take care of your crops properly.

Good crop management is what produces high-quality lavender. 

Let’s learn how to take care of lavender plants properly.

Watering requirements

Lavender is drought-tolerant once established. However, proper irrigation is necessary in the establishment phase.

• Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
• Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to keep foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases.
• Reduce watering during rainy seasons to prevent waterlogging.

Weed management

Control weeds especially during the first year of growth.

• Use organic mulch (such as wood chips or straw) to suppress weed growth and retain soil moisture.
• Hand-weed regularly, being careful not to disturb lavender roots.
• Consider using landscape fabric for long-term weed control in commercial plantations.

Fertilization

Lavender doesn’t require heavy fertilization. However, a balanced approach can improve yield.

• Apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring.
• Use compost or well-rotted manure as an organic alternative.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.

Pruning and shaping

Prune your plants regularly to maintain plant shape and promote abundant flowering.

• Prune lightly after the first flush of flowers to encourage a second bloom.
• Perform a hard prune in early spring, cutting back about one-third of the plant’s growth.
• Shape plants into a mounded form to improve air circulation and prevent water from settling in the center.

Pro Tip: Never cut into the woody part of the stems, as lavender may not regenerate from old wood.

Pest and Disease Management

Although lavender is immune to many pests and diseases, you must keep an eye on the crop to maintain a healthy crop. 

Here are some common issues you might encounter in Kenya.

Common pests

1. Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cluster on new growth.
2. Whiteflies: Tiny white flying insects that can damage plants by sucking sap.
3. Spittlebugs: Recognizable by the frothy “spittle” they produce on plants.

Common diseases

1. Root rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to yellowing leaves and wilting.
2. Fungal infections: Botrytis (gray mold) and alfalfa mosaic virus.
3. Leaf spot: Dark spots on leaves that can lead to defoliation if severe.

Organic control measures

1. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings by planting diverse crops nearby.
2. Use neem oil or insecticidal soaps for pest control.
3. Improve air circulation by proper spacing and pruning to reduce fungal issues.
4. Apply compost tea or seaweed extract to boost plant immunity.

Chemical control

If organic methods are insufficient, consider

1. Pyrethrin-based insecticides for severe pest infestations.
2. Copper-based fungicides for fungal diseases.
3. Systemic fungicides for root rot, following manufacturer’s instructions.

Always use chemicals as a last resort.

Pro Tip: Regular monitoring is necessary. Walk through your lavender field at least once a week 

This way you will catch any pest or disease issues early.

Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

Harvest and store your crop well. It will help you maintain the quality of your lavender good.

Here’s what you need to know.

Time of lavender harvesting

The best time for harvesting depends on your intended use.

• Oil production: Harvest when about 50% of the flower buds have opened.
• Dried flowers: Cut stems when flowers are just beginning to open.
• Fresh flowers: Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day.

Harvesting methods

1. Hand Harvesting

• Use sharp, clean pruning shears or sickles.
• Cut stems about 2-3 inches above the woody part of the plant.
• Gather stems in bundles for easier handling.

2. Mechanical harvesting

• For large-scale operations, consider investing in a lavender harvesting machine.
• Ensures uniform cutting and speeds up the harvesting process.

Post-harvest handling

Proper handling after harvest is critical. It preserves the quality of your lavender.

1. Drying.

• Air-dry bundles in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Hang bundles upside down to maintain stem straightness.
• Use drying racks for loose flowers.

2. Storage.

• Store dried lavender in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
• Monitor humidity levels to prevent mold growth.

3. Packaging.

• For dried flowers, use breathable packaging like muslin bags or paper boxes.
• For essential oils, use dark glass bottles to protect from light degradation.

Pro Tip: To maintain the highest quality, process your lavender as quickly as possible after harvesting. 

This helps preserve the volatile oils responsible for lavender’s fragrance and therapeutic properties.

Lavender Oil Extraction

Extract lavender oil from your plants. This makes your harvest worth more.

Here’s an overview of the process.

Methods of extraction

1. Steam distillation

• The most common method for extracting lavender oil.
• Fresh or partially dried lavender is placed in a still and steam is passed through it.
• The steam vaporizes the volatile compounds, which are then condensed and separated from the water.

2. Cold pressing

• Less common for lavender, but used for some varieties.
• This involves mechanically pressing the plant material to release the oils.

Setting up a small-scale distillation unit

To set up your distillation unit, you’ll need

1. A still (can be copper or stainless steel)
2. A boiler to generate steam
3. A condenser to cool the steam and oil mixture
4. A separator to divide the oil from the hydrosol (floral water)

Make sure that your setup complies with local regulations for essential oil production.

Legal and safety requirements

Before setting up a vital oil production unit, consider

1. Obtaining necessary permits from local authorities
2. Implementing safety measures for steam handling
3. Proper waste management and disposal procedures

Yields and profit

The yield of an essential oil can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.

• English lavender typically yields 0.8-1.2% oil by weight.
• Lavandin can yield up to 1.5-2% oil.

From experience, a hectare of lavender can produce anywhere from 40 to 160 kg of essential oil. 

Pro Tip: Partner with an established distillery when starting. 

This will help you learn the process and ensure quality before investing in your equipment.

Marketing and Value Addition

Market your lavender well. Marketing increases your profit margin.

Here’s how to approach it.

Market demand for Lavender products

There’s a growing demand for lavender products in various sectors in Kenya and globally.

Let’s find out the market.

1. Cosmetics and personal care: Essential oils, soaps, lotions
2. Aromatherapy: Pure essential oils, diffuser blends
3. Culinary: Dried lavender for teas, spices, and flavoring
4. Home Decor: Dried bouquets, sachets, potpourri

Value-added products

Diversify into value-added products to significantly increase your revenue.

Options available.

1. Lavender essential oil: The most valuable product, used in aromatherapy and personal care.
2. Lavender-infused products: Soaps, creams, candles, and bath salts.
3. Culinary lavender: Dried buds for cooking, lavender-infused honey, and teas.
4. Decorative items: Lavender wreaths, dried bouquets, and sachets.

Branding and packaging

Consider branding. Effective branding can set your products apart in the market.

How to approach it.

1. Develop a unique brand identity that reflects the quality and origin of your lavender.
2. Use eco-friendly packaging to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
3. Consider obtaining organic certification to tap into the premium organic market.

Economic and Financial Considerations

As a farmer, you need to know the financial aspects of lavender farming. 

This will help you plan properly, make informed decisions and make a profit.

The aspects you should know.

Initial investment and setup costs

Starting a lavender farm requires several upfront investments:

1. Land acquisition or lease
2. Land preparation and soil amendment
3. Irrigation system setup
4. Lavender seedlings or propagation materials
5. Farm equipment and tools
6. Labor costs for planting and initial maintenance

Form experience, for a one-acre lavender farm in Kenya, initial setup costs can range from KES 500,000 to KES 1,000,000.

Remember, this depends on existing infrastructure and scale of operations.

Expected returns and profitability

Lavender farming is profitable. However, it takes time to reach full production.

• Year 1-2: Limited harvest, focus on plant establishment
• Year 3-4: Increasing yields, break-even point for many farms
• Then year 5 onwards: Full production and profitability

Potential revenue streams.

1. Essential oil: KES 10,000 – 20,000 per liter
2. Dried flowers: KES 1,000 – 2,000 per kg
3. Value-added products: Varies based on product and market

Challenges in Lavender Farming in Kenya

Lavender farming comes with its own challenges. 

Let’s acquaint ourselves with these challenges.

Climatic risks

1. Drought: Extended dry periods stress plants and reduce yields
2. Excessive rainfall: Lead to root rot and fungal diseases
3. Temperature extremes: Unusually hot or cold weather affect plant growth and oil quality

Mitigation strategies

• Implement efficient irrigation systems
• Use mulching to conserve soil moisture
• Choose lavender varieties suited to your specific microclimate

Lack of technical knowledge

Lavender farming is relatively new in Kenya, leading to

• Limited local expertise in cultivation techniques
• Lack of established best practices for Kenyan conditions

What you need to do to overcome these challenges.

• Attend agricultural workshops and seminars
• Connect with international lavender farming associations
• Experiment with small plots to determine what works best in your area

Pest and disease pressure

Although lavender is pest-resistant, it still faces challenges.

• Root rot in areas with poor drainage
• Aphid infestations during stressed periods

Strategies to minimize losses.

• Implement crop rotation with complementary plants
• Use integrated pest management techniques
• Maintain good air circulation through proper spacing and pruning

Market access and competition

Challenges in this area.

• Limited local market awareness of lavender products
• Competition from established international lavender producers

How farmers overcome these challenges.

• Develop unique, high-quality products
• Focus on building a strong local brand before expanding
• Explore niche markets like organic or fair-trade certifications

Opportunities for Lavender Farming in Kenya

Despites its challenges, it offers farmers numerous opportunities.

Let’s explore these opportunities.

Untapped potential

1. Organic lavender farming

• Growing demand for organic products both locally and internationally
• Premium pricing for certified organic lavender and its derivatives

2. Lavender tourism

• Develop agritourism experiences around your lavender farm
• Offer tours, workshops, and photo opportunities during the bloom season

3. Diversification with other aromatic crops

• Complement lavender with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or chamomile
• Create unique product blends and expand your market reach

Collaboration with local cooperatives and associations

1. Join or form farmer cooperatives

• Share resources and knowledge
• Increase bargaining power for better prices

2. Collaborate on marketing and branding

• Create a regional lavender brand 
• Pool resources for more effective marketing campaigns

Final Thoughts On Lavender Farming In Kenya

The future of lavender farming in Kenya is bright.

Jus start Small. Begin with a small plot (0.25 to 0.5 acres) to learn and perfect your techniques before scaling up.

You need to choose the right variety. Consult agricultural experts to  help you select lavender varieties suitable for your location and climate.

The focus on soil preparation. Simply invest your  time and resources in preparing well-draining soil with the right pH level before planting.

Remember, success in lavender farming calls for patience, persistence, and willingness to learn and adapt.