Lemon Grass Farming In Kenya; A Complete Production Guide

Lemon grass farming in Kenya has gained significant popularity in Kenya due to the growing demand for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a versatile herb known for its refreshing lemony fragrance and various culinary, medicinal, and industrial uses.

This tropical plant thrives in Kenya’s diverse agro-ecological zones, making it an attractive option for small-scale farmers and agribusinesses. With its unique characteristics and potential benefits, lemon grass cultivation presents a promising opportunity for agricultural diversification and economic growth in the country.

Production Levels:

Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is grown in various parts of Kenya, primarily for its aromatic and medicinal properties. It is cultivated both on small-scale farms and in larger plantations. The production levels can vary based on factors such as climate, soil conditions, market demand, and local agricultural practices.

Major Producing Areas:

Lemon grass can be found in several regions across Kenya, including but not limited to:

1. Coastal Region: The coastal areas, such as Mombasa and Kilifi, provide suitable conditions for lemon grass cultivation due to their warm and humid climate.
2. Eastern Region: Counties like Meru, Tharaka Nithi, and Embu also engage in lemon grass farming, taking advantage of their favorable agro-climatic conditions.
3. Central Region: Parts of central Kenya, including Nyeri and Kirinyaga, have also been involved in lemon grass cultivation.
4. Rift Valley Region: Some areas in the Rift Valley, such as Nakuru and Kericho, have ventured into lemon grass farming as well.

Lemon Grass Varieties In Kenya

Here are some lemon grass varieties that are known to be cultivated in Kenya:

1. West Indian Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus):
   • Characteristics: This is one of the most widely cultivated varieties. It has thin, long leaves with a strong lemon fragrance and flavor. It is commonly used in culinary dishes and herbal teas.
   • Production per Acre: Lemon grass yield per acre can vary depending on factors such as cultivation practices, climate, and soil conditions. On average, a well-managed acre can yield several tons of fresh leaves per harvest.
   • Important Considerations: West Indian Lemon Grass is valued for its essential oil content, which is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. Regular pruning and proper spacing are essential for healthy growth and higher yields.
2. East Indian Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon flexuosus):
   • Characteristics: This variety is known for its thicker leaves and higher essential oil content compared to West Indian Lemon Grass. It has a robust lemon scent and is often used for oil extraction and as a flavoring agent.
   • Production per Acre: Similar to other varieties, production per acre can vary widely. Adequate spacing, irrigation, and nutrient management contribute to higher yields.
   • Important Considerations: East Indian Lemon Grass is often preferred for commercial essential oil production. Proper distillation techniques are crucial to extract high-quality oil.
3. Native Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon nardus):
   • Characteristics: Also known as Citronella Grass, this variety has a strong citronella fragrance and is valued for its mosquito-repelling properties.
   • Production per Acre: Similar to other varieties, production can vary based on agronomic practices and local conditions.
   • Important Considerations: Native Lemon Grass is often grown for its oil, which is used in insect repellents. It requires regular pruning to encourage fresh growth and maintain oil content.

Lemon Grass Plant Description

Leaves and stem

Lemon Grass is a tall, fast-growing, lemon-scented, perennial grass reaching a height of 1,5 m. It has distinct, dark-green foliage and also produces seed.

Lemon Grass is a fast-growing, lemon-scented, perennial grass reaching a height of 1 m. It has distinct bluish-green leaves and usually does not produce seed. Both these grasses produce many bulbous stems that increase the clump diameter as the plants mature.

Essential part

Stalks and leaves. The essential oil is extracted from fresh plant material by means of steam distillation.

Cultivation of Lemon grass

Proper selection of land, which supports the plant growth for a longer period, is essential for optimum growth and satisfactory recovery of oil. For Lemon grass cultivation, attitude of 150-200 m is ideal, the plant grows satisfactorily upto the height of 700 m. Humid Climate with regular rainfall is most favourable for plant growth and oil production as well.

Soil

Lemon Grass plant grows on a wide range of soils. The best yields will be obtained from well drained sandy to loam soils, with a pH value ranging from 4.3 to 8.4 and with access to water throughout the year, it can give 3 – 4 harvests. Often the grass is grown on poor soils or erosion sensitive areas.

Yield and oil content are influenced by the soil conditions. Poor soils will give low yields and short economic lifespan. Fertile soils will give higher yield but lower oil percentage and citral content.
Under very humid conditions rust might be a problem. Under dry-land conditions the crop will produce 1-2 cuts a year in the raining season. Without water it will, through its deep rooting system, survive until the next raining season. The grass might look dead, the grass can’t produce a crop but will shoot again as soon as the rains start. The grass does not withstand water logging.

Soil sampling and analysis

• Take soil samples according to correct guidelines.
• Have the soil analyzed at a laboratory that will be able to check for mineral deficiencies and excesses, organic status and carbon ratios.
• A soil analysis will guide the producer in correcting the nutrient status of the soil in order to provide the crop with optimum growing conditions such as a balanced mineral status and correct pH.
• Soil fertility levels have to be within acceptable ranges before a soil-building programme is started.
• Correct the soil pH according to analysis and soil type.
• Fertiliser use has to be planned according to whether the crop will be grown inorganically or organically.
• Soil preparation has to be done according to good cultivation practices.
• Follow suitable soil preparation practices according to the farming operation. (rip, plough, disc, harrow, contour, etc.)
• If mechanical harvesting and weed control is envisaged, prepare row widths adapted to the machinery to be used.
• Use cover crops to suppress weed growth and promote soil moisture capture.

Farmers who treat their soil correctly will have the benefit of producing crops of high value with less input in terms of weed, pest and disease control.

Temperature

Lemongrass prefers tropical or subtropical climates. It grows well at a temperature range of 10 to 33 °C, and it needs enough sunshine for the development of oil in the plant. The grass is sensitive to cold weather and cannot withstand frost.

Rainfall

The favourable rainfall for dryland growing of lemongrass should range from 700 to 3 000 mm uniformly distributed throughout the year. In the areas where rainfall is less, it can be grown with supplemental irrigation.

Land Preparation On lemon Grass Farming In Kenya

Land is prepared by ploughing, discing and filling the soil for several times. Termite treatment is important, during last ploughing 5% BHC Powder, 25 Kg / Ha, should be mixed with soil, after that leveling should be done.

Lemon Grass Propagation

For better quality and yield of oil, it is recommended to grow lemongrass by slips obtained by dividing well-grown clumps. Tops of clumps should be cut off within 20 to 25 cm of the root.
The latter should be divided into slips and the lower brown sheath should be removed to expose young roots. Propagation can be done by seed as well.

Seeds

Lemon Grass plants are left in the field without harvesting, for collection of seeds, as the yield of seeds from plants subjected to regular harvest is lower. On average, a healthy plant gives about 100 to 200 g of seeds. Seeds germinate in 5 to 6 days if temperature and moisture levels are correct and the seedlings are ready for transplanting when they are about 60 days old.

Raising of lemon grass  seedlings in the nursery

It is advantageous to raise seedlings in a nursery whenever there is not an assured source of irrigation water available. The transplanting of nursery-raised seedlings is better compared to direct sowing of seeds in the land.

1. Prepare the soil. Lemon grass prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not soggy.
2. Sow the seeds. Lemon grass seeds are very small, so they should be sown shallowly. Sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
3. Water the seeds. Water the seeds regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
4. Germination. Lemon grass seeds typically germinate within 2 to 4 weeks.
5. Transplanting. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.

Tips for lemon grass seed propagation:

• Use fresh seeds. Lemon grass seeds have a short shelf life, so it is important to use fresh seeds for the best germination rate.
• Sow the seeds in a warm location. Lemongrass seeds germinate best in warm temperatures, around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil. Lemongrass seeds need light to germinate, but they should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
• Water the seeds regularly, but do not overwater. Lemongrass seeds need moist soil, but they should not be soggy.
• Transplant the seedlings when they are about 6 inches tall. Lemongrass seedlings are quite hardy and can be transplanted even when they are small.

Transplanting Lemon Grass:

Timing: Transplanting lemon grass should be done when the seedlings have developed a few true leaves and are sturdy enough to withstand the transplant process. This typically occurs around 6 to 8 weeks after seed sowing.

Preparation:

1. Choose a well-prepared planting area with good soil drainage, adequate sunlight, and protection from strong winds.
2. Ensure that the soil has been adequately prepared by tilling, removing weeds, and incorporating organic matter if needed.

Transplanting Steps:

1. Water the seedlings in their nursery containers a day or two before transplanting to help ease their removal and reduce transplant shock.
2. Create holes or furrows in the prepared planting area at the desired spacing. Lemon grass is usually planted with approximately 60 cm (2 feet) between plants and rows.
3. Gently remove the seedlings from their containers, holding them by the base of the stems or leaves. Be careful not to damage the roots.
4. Place each seedling into a planting hole or furrow, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
5. Backfill the hole with soil, pressing it lightly to secure the seedling in place. Water the transplanted seedlings immediately to settle the soil around the roots.
6. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the seedlings to help retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.

Plant Population per Acre: The optimal plant population per acre depends on factors such as the lemon grass variety, spacing, and intended use. As a general guideline, you can aim for a plant density of around 24,000 to 30,000 plants per acre. This translates to spacing seedlings approximately 60 cm (2 feet) apart within rows and maintaining similar spacing between rows.

After Transplanting Care:

1. Continue to provide regular irrigation to ensure that the transplanted seedlings receive sufficient moisture as they establish their root systems.
2. Monitor the seedlings for signs of stress, pests, or diseases, and take appropriate action if necessary.
3. As the plants grow, consider thinning them if they appear overcrowded or if you want to encourage larger individual plants.

Lemon Grass Plantation

Plantation remains for the period of 4 to 5 years. Planting material is obtained by dividing the clumps from the old plantation; the divided units are called ‘Slips’.

Before digging out the clumps, all the leaves should be removed 20-25 cm from the ground to minimize water loss from transpiration. Lengthy roots are trimmed and the dead leaves are removed from the slips to allow quick establishment of the slips in soil and to protect it from soil
born insect and pests.

Slips plantation is done on flat beds or ridges depending upon the texture of the soil. Slips are placed in holes of about 5-8 cm deep and the soil surrounding the slips is properly pressed and watering should be done. Plantation is done at 45 × 45 cm, 60 × 60cm distance,  however in areas with fairly large growing period planting distance may be increased to 70×70 cm or even 90 × 90 cm. Closer planting helps plantation to compete against weeds. The best time for planting is the onset of rains.

Weed Control

Lemon grass is susceptible for weed competition for few months after plantation; the problem is more in rainy season. The plantation should be kept weed free for 60-75 days, which is critical period for weed competition. Weeds can be managed by manual removal or by selective herbicides.

Irrigation

Lemon grass requires moist condition for good growth. In sub-tropical areas where rainy season lasts for 3-4 months, the crop requires regular irrigation during rain free period and 8-10 irrigations are considered to be sufficient to meet the water requirement. In areas of prolonged rainy season, the crop is cultivated as rain fed crop.

Harvesting Lemon Grass In Kenya

The first harvest can take place from 6 to 9 months after planting the slips. The grass can then be harvested frequently during the active growing season, up to once every month.

Frequent cutting stimulates growth. The oil yield will be reduced if the plant is allowed to grow too large. The grass should be harvested early in the morning, provided it is not raining and allowing
heavy dew to evaporate in order to avoid colour loss during a hot day.

The plants are harvested mechanically or by hand. Cut the grass 10 to 15 cm above ground level. Avoid cutting too low as it will delay regrowth. Prevent splitting of cutting edges by using sharp tools and machinery that make a clear cut.

Oil quantity is optimal in the upper parts of the plant. Should the grass be cut too low, there will be less oil in the leaves. Up to three harvests can be obtained in the first year and up to 5 to 10 harvests during each of the 3 to 5 succeeding years, depending on soil moisture status, management and weather.

Cost analysis and profits per acre on lemon grass farming in Kenya

Cost Analysis:

1. Land Preparation: KSH 20,000
2. Seeds: KSH 8,000
3. Fertilizer: KSH 10,000
4. Pesticides: KSH 5,000
5. Irrigation: KSH 10,000 (Excluded, as per your request)
6. Labor: KSH 40,000
7. Other Costs: KSH 15,000

Total Costs: Total estimated costs per acre: KSH 108,000

Profit Projection:

1. Yield per Acre:
   • Estimated yield range: 5,000 kg to 10,000 kg of fresh lemon grass leaves per acre.
2. Market Price:
   • Assumed average market price: KSH 20 per kg.
3. Gross Revenue:
   • Gross revenue per acre = Yield per acre × Market price per kg.
   • Gross revenue per acre (5,000 kg) = 5,000 kg × KSH 20/kg = KSH 100,000
   • Gross revenue per acre (10,000 kg) = 10,000 kg × KSH 20/kg = KSH 200,000
4. Net Profit:
   • Net profit per acre (5,000 kg) = Gross revenue per acre – Total costs.
   • Net profit per acre (5,000 kg) = KSH 100,000 – KSH 108,000 = -KSH 8,000 (Loss)
   • Net profit per acre (10,000 kg) = Gross revenue per acre – Total costs.
   • Net profit per acre (10,000 kg) = KSH 200,000 – KSH 108,000 = KSH 92,000

Profit Range: Considering the estimated total costs and yield range:

• Net loss: KSH 8,000 (at 5,000 kg yield)
• Net profit: KSH 92,000 (at 10,000 kg yield)

Please note that these calculations are based on your provided estimates and assumptions. Actual costs and profits can vary based on market fluctuations, local conditions, management practices, and unforeseen expenses.

Lemon grass uses

The benefits of lemon grass are a lot, and a few are:

1. The foremost is an essential resource of vitamin A production, ionone. It is from the lemon grass oil Citral. Ionone is used in various confectionaries and liquors to get the fragrance. However, using the oil or the extracted citral, the ionone is manufactured.
2. Lemongrass oil is used in detergents, pesticides, polishes, deodorants, and waxes, owing to its inexpensive cost.
3. The oil of this plant is used in perfumes, fragrances, hair oils, and pharmaceuticals production. It is antimicrobial.
4. Common cold, cough, fever, achy joints, convulsions, tiredness, high blood pressure, and discomfort are treatable with lemon grass. It destroys microorganisms and is best used as a moderate astringent.
5. The oil and foliage of Lemon grass help create medications. It is a vital herb for the therapeutic practice of mind-body practices.

Importance of lemon grass farming

Lemon grass farming is vital due to its best benefits.  It is also known as the ‘master of all trades.’ Its grassy, long leaves transform any landscape into an amazingly fragrant and serene place. It is a versatile herb, healthy and tasty, easy to grow, and bug-repellent. It offers potential benefits creating importance.

The price of lemon grass oil has an economic impact. The plant leaves are useful to make oil. It has citral in high proportion in the oil that there is an odor of lemon-like. It is a distinctive scent that is used in soaps, cleansers, and bug repellents. The citral is in cosmetics, perfumes, and drinks. It serves as the ionones production, which is the vitamin A precursor.

A few convincing reasons assuring lemon grass farming health benefits

1. Rich in anti-fungal, flavonoids, antioxidants, and antimicrobial compounds. Soothes the urinary tract as it has healing capacities.
2. Helps weight loss in that it breaks and oxidizes fatty acids. Drink lemon grass tea before each meal, it regulates digestion and improves metabolism to shed weight.
3. Aids flu and cold by fighting infections and bringing the fever down. It gives relief from pains and aches.
4. Aids stomach disorders and digestion by taking lemon grass tea. It cures stomach constipation, aches, and nausea.
5. It lowers cholesterol, has type-2 diabetes, anti-cancer properties, and rheumatism. It also helps deal with menstrual issues.
6. Beneficial for hair and skin as the antibacterial properties promote hair growth and offer a fairer complexion.
7. Lemon grass calms the mind and muscles assuring deeper and better sleep. It fights against disorders and reduces stress levels, and it keeps away Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
8. Mosquitoes dislike the lemon grass aroma, and lemon grass protects you from lemongrass.
9. Lemon grass has an antimicrobial and therapeutic value in that the leaves are found in various drugs.

Future growth of Lemon grass farming

There is rising demand for lemongrass farming. It is a thriving business that is expected to generate good returns with moderate investment. It is an opulent source of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, containing antioxidants. It is an antifungal agent and an effective antibacterial containing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has a flavonoid, quercetin, that best features anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Facts about lemon grass farming

• The lemon grass farming first harvest can be after planting on completing 4 months.
• The lemon grass is a perennial. It is sensitive and winter hardy to frost conditions.
• In cold conditions, the lemon grass becomes dormant, so it is best to plant after the passing of frost.
• Planting lemon grass in the home garden pots is enough. It requires partial shade or full sun and prefers humid and warm conditions
• Lemon grass is suitable to grow on a terrace, balcony, backyard, or indoors.
• Keep the stalks of lemon grass in water to grow new roots. A jar with one inch of water is enough. Within 15 to 20 days new roots come, and you can consider transplanting them to the pot.

Business opportunities with lemon grass farming require earning maximum profit. It is to use lemon grass products such as tea and to enhance your profits. In addition, get into business partnerships that need lemon grass oil for their products, cosmetic, medicinal, or perfumes, and increase your profits.

Pests and Diseases That Affect Lemon Grass Farming In Kenya

Here are some common pests and diseases that affect lemon grass cultivation in Kenya, along with brief descriptions and control measures:

Pests:

1. Aphids:
   • Description: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plant tissues, leading to distorted growth and sooty mold development.
   • Control: Introduce natural predators like ladybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and practice regular monitoring.
2. Grasshoppers:
   • Description: These chewing insects can consume significant amounts of foliage, leading to reduced plant vigor and growth.
   • Control: Implement physical barriers, remove weeds, use insecticides, and encourage natural predators.
3. Scale Insects:
   • Description: Tiny, immobile insects that attach to plant surfaces and feed on sap, causing yellowing and weakening of the plant.
   • Control: Prune affected leaves, use horticultural oils, introduce beneficial insects, and maintain plant hygiene.
4. Mites:
   • Description: Small arachnids that feed on plant fluids, causing yellowing and stippling of leaves.
   • Control: Spray with water to dislodge mites, introduce predatory mites, and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Diseases:

1. Fungal Leaf Spot:
   • Description: Circular or irregular spots on leaves with fungal growth. Can lead to leaf yellowing and defoliation.
   • Control: Avoid overhead watering, promote good air circulation, and apply copper-based fungicides preventively.
2. Rust:
   • Description: Rust-colored spores on leaf surfaces, causing lesions and weakening the plant.
   • Control: Remove and destroy infected leaves, space plants adequately, and use fungicides if necessary.
3. Bacterial Leaf Blight:
   • Description: Water-soaked lesions on leaves that later turn brown and dry, leading to defoliation.
   • Control: Practice good sanitation, avoid overhead watering, and remove and destroy infected plants.
4. Root Rot:
   • Description: Fungal infection that affects the roots, causing wilting and stunted growth.
   • Control: Ensure proper drainage, use well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering.
5. Nematodes:
   • Description: Microscopic worms that attack the roots, leading to poor nutrient uptake and stunted growth.
   • Control: Rotate crops, practice proper sanitation, and consider using nematode-resistant varieties.

Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPM) Strategies:

1. Monitor plants regularly for signs of pests and diseases.
2. Choose disease-resistant lemon grass varieties when available.
3. Implement cultural practices such as proper spacing, soil health management, and sanitation.
4. Introduce natural predators and beneficial insects to control pest populations.
5. Use organic and chemical control methods judiciously and follow label instructions.
6. Rotate crops to disrupt pest and disease life cycles.

It’s important to note that prevention, early detection, and a combination of control methods are key to effectively managing pests and diseases in lemon grass farming.

FAQs

1. Q: What is lemon grass, and why is it popular in Kenya? A: Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a herb with a refreshing lemony aroma. It’s popular in Kenya due to its culinary uses, medicinal properties, and potential for essential oil extraction.

2. Q: When is the best time to plant lemon grass in Kenya? A: Lemon grass can be planted during the rainy seasons or in well-irrigated areas. Planting during the warmer months when temperatures are favorable is recommended.

3. Q: How is lemon grass propagated in Kenya? A: Lemon grass can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Stem cuttings are a common method, where healthy stems are rooted in the soil.

4. Q: What are the soil requirements for successful lemon grass cultivation? A: Well-drained soils with good organic content are ideal. Sandy loam to clay loam soils are suitable for lemon grass farming.

5. Q: How do I care for lemon grass seedlings after transplanting? A: Water the seedlings regularly, provide adequate sunlight, and protect them from strong winds. Mulching can help retain moisture.

6. Q: Can lemon grass be grown in containers or pots in Kenya? A: Yes, lemon grass can be successfully grown in containers as long as they provide good drainage and enough space for root development.

7. Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for in lemon grass farming? A: Common pests include aphids, grasshoppers, and mites. Diseases like fungal leaf spot and rust can also affect lemon grass.

8. Q: How can I control pests and diseases in my lemon grass farm organically? A: Introduce natural predators, practice good sanitation, and use organic sprays like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

9. Q: When can I start harvesting lemon grass leaves? A: Lemon grass leaves can be harvested when they are mature and have developed a strong lemon scent, usually after a few months of growth.

10. Q: What are the uses of lemon grass in Kenya? A: Lemon grass is used for culinary purposes, herbal teas, essential oil extraction, and as a natural insect repellent.

11. Q: How can I extract essential oil from lemon grass? A: Essential oil can be extracted through steam distillation of the leaves. Professional distillation equipment is recommended.

12. Q: Is lemon grass susceptible to drought? A: Lemon grass is relatively drought-tolerant, but consistent and even moisture is important for optimal growth and oil content.

13. Q: Can I grow lemon grass using organic farming methods? A: Yes, lemon grass can be grown organically using natural fertilizers, pest control methods, and sustainable farming practices.

14. Q: How do I prevent lemon grass from becoming invasive in my garden? A: Lemon grass can spread, so consider planting it in contained areas or using physical barriers to control its growth.

15. Q: What is the typical yield of lemon grass per acre in Kenya? A: Lemon grass yield can vary, but well-managed farms can potentially yield several tons of fresh leaves per acre.

16. Q: What is the ideal spacing for planting lemon grass seedlings? A: Plant lemon grass seedlings about 60 cm apart within rows, with similar spacing between rows.

17. Q: Can I intercrop lemon grass with other crops? A: Yes, lemon grass can be intercropped with compatible plants, such as vegetables or herbs, to maximize land use.

18. Q: How can I store harvested lemon grass leaves for later use? A: Store fresh lemon grass leaves in the refrigerator or dry and crush them for storage in airtight containers.

19. Q: Are there any lemon grass varieties that are particularly suited for Kenyan conditions? A: Various lemon grass varieties, including West Indian and East Indian, can thrive in different regions of Kenya.

20. Q: Where can I find more information and support for lemon grass farming in Kenya? A: Local agricultural extension offices, research institutions, and online resources can provide valuable guidance and support for lemon grass farming in Kenya.