Chamomile Farming in Kenya
Chamomile is a herb from the Asteraceae family that is rich in Vitamins A and C. It is grown organically hence you do not use Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides, making it economically affordable and easy to grow. It contains essential oils and antioxidants.
Soil Preparation
Chamomile requires moist, well compost and light soil. Basically, well-drained sandy soil. The soil Ph should be between 6.5 – 7.5. You can add compost of about two inches and ensure the area is full of sunlight.
Climate
Chamomile does not require hot weather during planting hence it’s important to start planting early (March-August). Chamomile requires a temperature of 180 degrees. Plant the seedlings half an inch deep, two inches apart.
Planting The Seeds
Its best to plant chamomile seeds in a nursery bed. During this period, watering is essential to avoid erosion. After a month of consistent watering, you can now proceed to transplanting the seedlings on your Shamba.
Watering
Chamomile does not require a wet ground. Always make sure the soil is evenly moist throughout the growing season. Too much rain or wetness may destroy the crop.
Pest and Diseases Management
The most common pests that affect chamomile is Aphids and Caterpillars. Using repellents is the best way to control pests and diseases. The fact that chamomile is a flower, it is not easily affected by pests and diseases.
Fertilization
Its advisable to use pure organic fertilizer.
Harvesting
Immediately you notice emergence of small flowers, it’s advisable to pluck them off their stems gently. We only pick flowers without the stem. Harvesting can be done weekly.
Preservation
Dry the chamomile flowers in a cool place, free from insects and with enough air circulation. It takes about 10 days for proper drying to happen while in a solar drier.
Marketing
You only need 80grams of chamomile seeds for an acre. You can then harvest 300kgs – 400kgs from an acre. Your produces vary depending on how much you cultivate the crop.
One kg of chamomile fetches between Kes 800 – Kes 1,000 in Kenya. Some consumers buy chamomile for tea while others buy and convert the flowers to essential oils. The export market is more lucrative especially the Asian and Middle East Countries.
For quality Chamomile Seeds and Seedlings, Call or WhatsApp 0708 233 861 or 0708 478 531
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