Site icon Farmers Trend

Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit Farming In Kenya; Complete Guide

Giant granadilla passion fruit is the largest variety of the passion fruit taking root in Kenya due to its high demand in both local and international markets. It is a neotropical species widely planted for its scented and edible fruit (specifically juices) and medicinal roots. The passion fruit giant granadilla is generally believed to be a native of tropical America, although its actual origin is still unknown. You can find this fruit in Mexico, Peru, and Brazil.

It is large, grows faster, and woody at the base, climbing trees with a height of between 10 and 15 feet. It produces large tuberous roots used as a substitute for yams in Jamaica, although they are considered poisonous in other areas.

The giant granadilla plant is a fast-growing vine, with a woody base. At maturity, it can climb up to 50 feet tall and can be harvested all year round. The flowers are nearly identical to the frilly, firework-shaped blooms of other passion vines, but double the size.

Granadilla Passion Fruit

Most people confuse granadilla and passion fruit, probably because they are closely related. However, these two fruits are quite different in many ways. Some people who have seen the beautiful granadilla flower have ended up mistaking it for passion fruit. Unfortunately, they are not the same, although they come from a similar genus.

Both fruits have edible seeds, but passion fruit seeds are black with soft and yellow pulp, while granadilla seeds are black but large and have transparent soft pulp. Another part where these fruits differ is in color. Passion fruit is purple or golden yellow, but granadilla is yellow. Granadilla is bright yellow and larger than most passion fruit varieties.

Climatic and Soil Requirements For Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit

One of the reasons why Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit thrives in Kenya is its adaptability to a wide range of climatic conditions. It flourishes in altitudes of 0 to 1,500 meters above sea level, making it suitable for cultivation in various regions of the country. The ideal temperature for successful cultivation ranges from 18°C to 25°C, and the fruit requires a well-distributed annual rainfall of around 900 to 2,500 mm.

In terms of soil, Granadilla thrives in well-drained, sandy-loam soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. Proper soil preparation, adequate drainage, and organic matter enrichment contribute to the plant’s optimal growth and fruit production.

Here are the key considerations for climatic and soil requirements:

Climatic Requirements for Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit:

Soil Requirements for Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit:

Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit Propagation

Propagation is the process of reproducing new Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit plants from existing plant material, allowing farmers to establish new crops with desirable characteristics. In the case of Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit, there are two common methods of propagation: seed propagation and stem cutting propagation.

1. Seed Propagation:

Seed propagation involves using seeds from mature Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit fruits to grow new plants. This method is relatively simple and is often used by backyard gardeners or for small-scale propagation. However, it has some drawbacks, as the new plants may not necessarily retain the same characteristics as the parent plant, leading to variability in fruit size, taste, and other traits.

Here are the steps involved in seed propagation:

2. Stem Cutting Propagation:

Stem cutting propagation is the preferred method for commercial Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit farming. It offers more predictable results, as the new plants are genetically identical to the parent plant, ensuring consistency in fruit quality and other desirable traits.

Here are the steps involved in stem cutting propagation:

Planting

Here are the steps to follow when planting Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit:

1. Site Selection:

Choose a suitable site with the following characteristics:

2. Soil Preparation:

Prepare the planting area by clearing any weeds or debris and tilling the soil to a depth of at least 30 cm. Incorporate well-rotted organic matter, compost, or farmyard manure to improve soil fertility and structure.

3. Trellis Construction:

Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit is a vigorous climber that requires support to grow vertically. Construct sturdy trellises using poles and wires or other suitable materials. The trellises should be about 2 meters high and spaced adequately to accommodate the spread of the vines.

4. Planting Method:

There are two primary planting methods for Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit: direct planting and transplanting.

a. Direct Planting:

b. Transplanting:

5. Watering:

Water the newly planted Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit regularly, especially during the initial establishment period. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. As the plants mature, they become more drought-tolerant, but regular watering is still necessary during dry spells.

6. Mulching:

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Mulching also helps maintain a more stable soil temperature.

7. Fertilization:

Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as essential micronutrients. Follow the recommended dosage based on the age of the plants and soil nutrient analysis.

8. Pruning:

Pruning is essential to train the vines and maintain their vigor. Remove weak or dead branches regularly, and guide the vines along the trellis to encourage upward growth.

By following these steps, farmers can successfully plant and establish healthy Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit crops. With proper care and maintenance, the plants will thrive, leading to a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious fruits.

Photo Credit

For Giant Granadilla Seedlings +254 724559286

Cost Of Production and Profits Per Acre

Calculating the cost of production and expected profits per acre for Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit farming in Kenya involves considering various factors such as initial investments, ongoing expenses, expected yield, and market prices. Please note that the figures provided below are approximate and can vary based on location, farming practices, and market conditions.

Cost of Production per Acre:

  1. Land Preparation: KSH 20,000 – 25,000
  2. Planting Material (Stem Cuttings): KSH 15,000 – 20,000
  3. Trellis Construction: KSH 30,000 – 40,000
  4. Irrigation System: KSH 50,000 – 60,000
  5. Fertilizers and Soil Amendments: KSH 40,000 – 50,000
  6. Pest and Disease Control: KSH 15,000 – 20,000
  7. Labor (Planting, Maintenance, Harvesting): KSH 60,000 – 80,000
  8. Miscellaneous Expenses: KSH 10,000 – 15,000

Total Cost of Production per Acre: KSH 240,000 – 310,000

Expected Profits per Acre:

The yield of Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit can vary depending on various factors like management practices, climate, and soil conditions. However, under good agricultural practices, an average yield per acre can be estimated at around 10,000 to 15,000 fruits per year.

Selling Price per Fruit: Assuming an average price of KSH 10 per fruit (can vary based on market demand and location).

Estimated Annual Revenue per Acre: 10,000 x KSH 10 = KSH 100,000

Expected Profits per Acre: Estimated Annual Revenue – Total Cost of Production = KSH 100,000 – (KSH 240,000 – 310,000) = Negative (KSH 140,000 to 210,000)

Please note that the above estimation shows potential negative profits based on the cost of production and market assumptions. Profitability depends on various factors like efficient management, marketing strategies, and the ability to fetch better market prices. Additionally, it may take a few years for the plants to reach full productivity, so initial years may show lower profits or even losses. To improve profitability, farmers can focus on maximizing yield, adopting cost-effective practices, and exploring value addition opportunities such as processing and value-added products.

Maturity Period

When it comes to growing the granadilla plant, you should note that it will take at least 12 months after planting to bear fruit. From 12 months onwards, you can start harvesting fruits, and the plants reach a maximum age of 3 years. The cycle from flower to fruit usually takes 12 weeks. Therefore, when the skin color changes to orange, it’s a good indication that it’s time to harvest the granadillas. Like the other passion fruit varieties, granadillas also have plenty of recipes to use when you want to eat them.

Here’s a rough timeline of growth stages for Giant Granadilla:

  1. Planting: If propagated from stem cuttings, the vine is usually planted in the main field after developing a good root system in the nursery. Alternatively, if propagated from seeds, the seeds are sown directly into the soil or raised in a nursery before transplanting.
  2. Establishment: In the first few months after planting, the vine focuses on establishing its root system and growing foliage. During this period, it is crucial to provide adequate water, nutrients, and support through trellises.
  3. Flowering: Typically, Giant Granadilla plants start flowering after about 6 to 8 months from planting. The vines produce large, attractive flowers, which are essential for fruit development.
  4. Fruit Set: After successful pollination, the flowers develop into fruits. It takes a few weeks for the fruit to mature and ripen.
  5. Fruit Harvest: Once the fruit is ripe, it is ready for harvest. The timing of the harvest can vary depending on the specific variety and climate conditions.

It’s important to note that Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit is a long-term crop, and its productivity increases with time. As the vine matures, it becomes more robust and produces a higher yield of fruits.

Granadilla vs Passion Fruit

Since people mostly confuse granadilla with passion fruit, we want to see some of these fruits’ differences. First of all, it’s important to note that both are a variety of passion fruit. Therefore, they belong to the same family but only have several differences that we’ll discuss in this section.

Granadilla and Passion Fruit Difference

Granadilla and passion fruit are closely related, but they are different. That’s because granadilla has a yellow-orange outer skin, while passion fruit has either bright yellow or deep purple outer skin. Also, passion fruit is smaller than granadilla, and they also tend to differ on the inside. Although both fruits have edible seeds, passion fruit seeds are black with soft, yellow pulp, while granadilla seeds are black but larger with transparent, soft pulp. What’s even more confusing is that some parts of the world regard beautiful, egg-shaped fruits like passion fruits. As mentioned earlier, the giant granadilla passion fruit is the largest variety of the passion fruit family.

Difference Between Passion Fruit and Granadilla

Despite the vining stems and the fruit’s flowers, the granadilla and passion fruit differ in appearance. Externally, they are encased in thick, colored skin, but each skin color is different. The granadilla fruit’s exterior color is yellow, while the passion fruit’s outer color is deep purple. Granadilla also has mucus-like inside that is clear, encased within its muculence grey seeds. The white pith of the granadilla fruit also slightly pulls away from the rind.

The design of granadilla and passion fruit is also different. The insides of the passion fruit are yellow and house black seeds within the less syrupy pulp.

Are Passion Fruit and Granadilla the Same?

No, passion fruit and granadilla are not the same. The only similarity that these fruits have is that they come from the same genus family. So, even though they are both varieties of passion fruit, they are pretty different in many ways, some of them we’ve discussed above. Another notable difference is that granadillas are sweeter than passion fruit. This is because passion fruit has a sour and acidic flavor, making it not sweet.

On the other hand, granadillas are sweet since they lack any sour taste. Therefore, when eating granadilla, you won’t need any added sugar. It’s essential to note that the rind of both granadilla and passion fruit is not edible.

Why is Granadilla Called Passion Fruit?

Granadilla is called passion fruit because it belongs to the same genus called the pentamerous Passiflora. Therefore, they are all varieties of passion fruit, so most people confuse granadillas with passion fruit. So, are passion fruit and granadilla the same? Absolute not! These fruits are far different from each other in terms of taste, appearance, and even size. Therefore, even though they belong to the same family, they have their own distinct features.

Fertilizer and Spray Program for Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit Farming

A well-designed fertilizer and spray program is essential to ensure the healthy growth and productivity of Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit plants. Here’s a general guide for the fertilizer and spray schedule:

Fertilizer Program:

  1. Soil Test: Before planting, conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient levels and pH of the soil. This will help you customize the fertilizer application based on the specific needs of your soil.
  2. Pre-Planting Fertilizer: Based on the soil test results, apply a balanced fertilizer before planting. A common formula may have N-P-K (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) ratios of 10-20-10 or 14-14-14. This initial application provides essential nutrients to support the establishment of young plants.
  3. Establishment Phase: During the first few months after planting, focus on developing a strong root system and vegetative growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 months, adjusting the amount based on plant growth and the soil’s nutrient requirements.
  4. Flowering and Fruit Development: Once the plants start flowering and fruiting, switch to a fertilizer with a higher potassium (K) content to promote flower development and fruit set. A suitable formula might have an N-P-K ratio of 10-30-20 or 15-30-15.
  5. Top Dressing: As the plants grow, incorporate organic matter, compost, or well-rotted manure as top dressing to improve soil fertility and provide a steady release of nutrients.
  6. Micronutrient Supplements: Monitor the plants for any signs of nutrient deficiencies. If required, apply micronutrient supplements containing essential elements like iron, zinc, manganese, and boron.

Spray Program:

  1. Pest Monitoring: Regularly inspect the plants for signs of pests and diseases. Early detection allows for timely intervention and prevents pest outbreaks.
  2. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Adopt IPM practices to manage pests effectively. Encourage natural predators, practice good sanitation, and implement cultural methods to minimize pest populations.
  3. Pesticide Application: If pest populations exceed acceptable thresholds, consider targeted pesticide applications. Choose pesticides labeled for the specific pests you are targeting, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and application frequency. Avoid spraying during flowering to protect pollinators.
  4. Fungicide Application: In regions prone to fungal diseases, apply fungicides preventatively, especially during periods of high humidity and frequent rainfall. Use fungicides labeled for the specific diseases you want to control.
  5. Spray Timing: Coordinate pesticide and fungicide applications with the pest and disease life cycles for better efficacy. Avoid spraying during extreme weather conditions, such as high temperatures or heavy rains.
  6. Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of fertilizer applications and spray treatments, including the products used, application rates, and dates. These records help track plant health, pest control effectiveness, and adherence to good agricultural practices.

Pest and Disease Management

As with any agricultural venture, managing pests and diseases is crucial in Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit farming. Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, and fruit flies, while diseases like Fusarium wilt and powdery mildew can affect plant health.

1. Pests:

a. Aphids:

b. Mealybugs:

c. Fruit Flies:

d. Whiteflies:

2. Diseases:

a. Fusarium Wilt:

b. Powdery Mildew:

c. Bacterial Spot:

d. Passion Fruit Woodiness Virus (PWV):

Farmers can adopt integrated pest management (IPM) practices, which involve a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical control methods to minimize damage. Regular field inspections and prompt action in case of infestations or diseases are vital to ensure a successful harvest.

Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit begins to bear fruit six to eight months after planting, with peak production occurring during the second year. Ripe fruits should be harvested carefully, as they are delicate and prone to damage.

Post-harvest handling is crucial to maintain the fruit’s quality and prolong its shelf life. Proper cleaning, grading, and packaging are essential steps to ensure the fruit reaches the market in optimal condition.

Market Opportunities

The demand for Giant Granadilla Passion Fruit is steadily increasing, both domestically and internationally. Its unique taste and nutritional value make it a favorite among consumers. Additionally, the fruit’s pulp and seeds have various applications in the food and beverage industry, including juices, desserts, and jams.

Farmers can explore local markets, supermarkets, and fruit processing companies to find lucrative opportunities for selling their produce.

FAQs

  1. What is giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla is a type of passion fruit that is native to South America. It is a large, oval fruit that can grow up to 15 centimeters in diameter. The flesh of the fruit is yellow or orange and is filled with small, black seeds.
  2. What are the benefits of giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. It also contains antioxidants that can help protect the body from damage.
  3. When is the best time to plant giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla can be planted in Kenya throughout the year, but the best time is during the rainy season.
  4. What climate is best for giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla prefers a warm, humid climate. It can tolerate some frost, but extended periods of cold weather can damage the plants.
  5. What kind of soil does giant granadilla need?
    • Giant granadilla prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6 and 7.
  6. How much sunlight does giant granadilla need?
    • Giant granadilla needs full sun to produce fruit.
  7. How much water does giant granadilla need?
    • Giant granadilla needs regular watering, especially during the fruiting season.
  8. How long does it take for giant granadilla to start producing fruit?
    • Giant granadilla plants can start producing fruit in the second year after planting.
  9. How much fruit does a giant granadilla plant produce?
    • A mature giant granadilla plant can produce up to 20 fruits per year.
  10. How do I harvest giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla fruits are ready to harvest when they are soft to the touch and the skin has turned a yellow or orange color.
  11. How do I store giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla fruits can be stored at room temperature for a few days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  12. How do I prepare giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla fruits can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in pies, pastries, and other desserts.
  13. What are some pests and diseases that can affect giant granadilla?
    • Giant granadilla plants can be affected by a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, thrips, and spider mites. They can also be affected by diseases such as powdery mildew, black spot, and anthracnose.
  14. How do I control pests and diseases in giant granadilla?
    • Pests and diseases can be controlled by using a combination of cultural practices, biological controls, and chemical pesticides.
  15. What are the challenges of growing giant granadilla in Kenya?
    • Some of the challenges of growing giant granadilla in Kenya include the high cost of inputs, the lack of access to markets, and the risk of pests and diseases.
  16. What are the opportunities for growing giant granadilla in Kenya?
    • The demand for giant granadilla is growing in Kenya, and there is a potential for farmers to earn a good income from growing this crop.
  17. Where can I get more information about growing giant granadilla in Kenya?
    • There are a number of resources available to help farmers learn more about growing giant granadilla in Kenya. These resources include the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI), the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), and the Kenya Horticultural Society.
  18. What are the future prospects for giant granadilla farming in Kenya?
    • The future prospects for giant granadilla farming in Kenya are positive. The demand for this crop is growing, and there is a potential for farmers to earn a good income from growing it.
  19. What are some tips for successful giant granadilla farming in Kenya?
    • Some tips for successful giant granadilla farming in Kenya include choosing the right variety, planting in the right location, providing adequate water and nutrients, and controlling pests and diseases.
  20. Where can I buy giant granadilla in Kenya?
    • Giant granadilla is available for purchase in a variety of places in Kenya, including supermarkets, farmers markets, and roadside stalls.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 2

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Exit mobile version