Compared to soursop, custard apple is more common in Kenya and is locally called matomoko. Custard apple has still not gained much popularity but there is possibility to expand its use and importance. Custard apple is spotted in most major markets in Nairobi. Most farmers have less than 10 trees and single trees have been spotted in some homesteads.
The fruit is quite an easy crop to grow and maintain, since it doesn’t require much input. It takes around one and half years to mature depending on irrigation and crop management. The crop does not require a lot of rainfall, which means it, is well suited for production in counties like Muranga which receives moderate rainfall.
Fruits are increasingly being recognized as essential for food and nutrition security. They are providing a promising economic opportunity for reducing rural poverty and unemployment in developing countries. They are also key components of farming diversification.
It is a superb source of Iron, Vitamin – C, manganese and potassium and it incorporates low quantities of ldl cholesterol and saturated fats. Custard apple grows neatly even below marginal soils. Custard apples or sugar apples are propagated from seeds on nursery beds and transplanted in the primary field.
Custard apple land and climate requirements:
Before planting custard apples, it is important to understand the land and climate attributes they need to flourish. The information on this page will help you decide if the land you have is suited to custard apples.
Soil
Custard Apples grow best in sandy loam soils, but well-structured clay loams are also suitable. Although the tree’s main feeder roots are relatively shallow, at least 1 m of well-drained soil without heavy clay or rock is needed to avoid root rot and ensure good tree performance. Where the topsoil is less than 1 m deep, plant the trees on mounds.
Custard apple prefers well aerated and well-drained soil rich in organic matter but is well adapted to unfavorable soil conditions. It can tolerate a soil ph of between 5.0 and 8.0
If possible, avoid soils that have previously grown:
These crops are potential hosts of the disease bacterial wilt, which custard apple is also susceptible to. The disease threat is worst in poorly drained soils.
Climate
The major climatic factors limiting commercial production of Custard Apples are temperature and humidity. We can confidentially ascertain that custard apples can do well pretty much in most parts of Kenya, even in areas experiencing high temperatures, as long as the right cultivars are used. Fruit production might vary in different climatic conditions, but one can get a substantial harvest.
Ecologically, its best suited in warm and fairly moist environments. It performs well in tropical climates accompanied with cool winters. Even though custard apples prefer humid climates it is possible to cultivate it in semi-arid areas.
Seedlings
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