Lentil Farming In Kenya; A Complete Cultivation Guide

Lentil Farming in Kenya, also known locally as “kamande,” is a traditional agricultural practice that holds significant cultural and economic importance in the country. This farming method primarily revolves around the cultivation of various types of lentils, leguminous plants that are rich in protein and essential nutrients. Kamande, which is a Swahili term for lentils, has been a staple food in Kenyans for generations.

Lentils are a hardy annual; they are a member of the pea family. Lentils grow on sparsely branched vines from 18 to 24 inches tall. The lentil has small whitish to light purple pea-like flowers. Pods are small, broad, and flat, and contains one or two flat, lens-shaped seed that is green or yellow to orange, red, or brown.

Lentil Growing Regions In Kenya

Lentil farming in Kenya requires specific conditions for optimal growth. While lentils can be cultivated in various regions, certain areas in Kenya are more favorable for lentil production due to their agro-climatic characteristics. Here are some regions that are considered suitable for lentil farming in Kenya:

1. Nakuru County: The cool climate and well-drained soils in Nakuru make it a suitable region for lentil cultivation.
2. Embu County: Embu’s moderate altitude and favorable weather conditions contribute to successful lentil yields.
3. Meru County: The central region’s climate and soil conditions in Meru are conducive to lentil farming.
4. Nyeri County: With its temperate climate and suitable soils, Nyeri provides a good environment for lentil cultivation.
5. Uasin Gishu County: This region’s altitudinal range and climatic conditions support lentil production.
6. Baringo County: Baringo’s varied landscapes and climatic conditions create opportunities for lentil farming.
7. Laikipia County: The diverse agro-ecological zones in Laikipia have led to successful lentil cultivation.
8. Trans Nzoia County: This region’s climatic conditions and fertile soils make it suitable for lentil farming.

Lentil (Kamande) Varieties Available In Kenya

Here are some of the common lentil varieties available in Kenya, their characteristics, maturity and production per acre in kilograms:

• Red Chief: This is a popular variety that is known for its high yields and drought tolerance. It matures in about 90-110 days and can produce up to 2000 kilograms per acre. It is a medium-sized lentil with a red-brown color. It is resistant to a number of diseases, including fusarium wilt and ascochyta blight.
• Richlea: This variety is also known for its high yields and is resistant to diseases such as fusarium wilt. It matures in about 100-120 days and can produce up to 1800 kilograms per acre. It is a large-sized lentil with a yellow-brown color. It is also resistant to ascochyta blight.
• Laird: This variety is a good choice for areas with high rainfall. It matures in about 120-130 days and can produce up to 1600 kilograms per acre. It is a medium-sized lentil with a green color. It is resistant to a number of diseases, including downy mildew and phoma pod rot.
• Eston: This variety is a good choice for areas with low rainfall. It matures in about 90-100 days and can produce up to 1500 kilograms per acre. It is a small-sized lentil with a brown color. It is resistant to a number of diseases, including ascochyta blight and anthracnose.
• Green lentils: These lentils are known for their nutty flavor and firm texture. They mature in about 120-130 days and can produce up to 1400 kilograms per acre. They are a small-sized lentil with a green color. They are not as resistant to diseases as some of the other varieties, but they are still a good choice for home gardens.

The actual yield of lentils per acre will vary depending on the variety, the growing conditions, and the management practices used. However, the varieties listed above are all capable of producing high yields under good conditions.

Here are some other factors to consider when choosing a lentil variety:

• Disease resistance: Some varieties are more resistant to diseases than others. This is important to consider if you are in an area where diseases are a problem.
• Maturity time: Some varieties mature faster than others. This is important to consider if you are short on time or if you live in an area with a short growing season.
• Yield potential: Some varieties produce higher yields than others. This is important if you are looking to maximize your profits.
• Taste and texture: Some varieties have a better taste and texture than others. This is important if you are planning to use the lentils for cooking.

Challenges Of Lentil Farming In Kenya

Some of the key challenges faced by lentil farmers in Kenya include:

1. Climate Variability: Erratic weather patterns, including unpredictable rainfall and droughts, can affect lentil cultivation. Inconsistent moisture levels during critical growth stages can lead to reduced yields and crop failure.
2. Pest and Disease Pressure: Lentil crops are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as aphids, thrips, pod borers, and fungal infections. Limited access to effective pest management solutions can lead to yield losses.
3. Limited Access to Quality Seeds: Availability of certified and high-quality lentil seeds may be limited in some areas, leading to poor germination and lower yields.
4. Soil Fertility and Quality: Proper soil preparation and nutrient management are crucial for successful lentil cultivation. Poor soil fertility and improper land preparation can hinder plant growth and development.
5. Labor Intensity: Lentil farming often requires labor-intensive tasks, such as manual weeding, planting, and harvesting. Labor shortages or high labor costs can impact the feasibility of lentil cultivation.
6. Market Access and Price Volatility: Farmers may face challenges in accessing markets to sell their lentil produce, and market prices can be unstable, affecting their income and economic sustainability.
7. Lack of Mechanization: Limited access to modern agricultural machinery and equipment can hinder the efficiency of lentil farming operations.
8. Post-Harvest Losses: Inadequate storage facilities and post-harvest management practices can lead to spoilage and losses of lentil produce.
9. Limited Research and Extension Services: Insufficient dissemination of research-based information and best practices for lentil cultivation can hinder farmers’ ability to adopt improved techniques.
10. Climate Change: Changing climatic conditions can impact lentil yields and crop suitability in certain regions, affecting the overall stability of lentil farming.
11. Financial Constraints: Access to credit and financing for purchasing inputs, seeds, and equipment can be a challenge for smallholder lentil farmers.
12. Lack of Value Addition: Limited processing and value addition activities for lentil products can affect profitability and income diversification for farmers.

Growing Conditions For Lentil Farming In Kenya

Lentil farming in Kenya is influenced by a range of climatic conditions that play a crucial role in determining the success and productivity of the crop. Here’s a detailed overview of the climatic conditions required for lentil farming:

1. Temperature:
   • Lentils thrive in cool to temperate climates. Ideal temperatures for lentil cultivation generally range between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the growing season.
   • Lentils are sensitive to high temperatures, especially during flowering and pod formation, which can negatively impact pollination and yield.
   • Cooler night temperatures are beneficial for lentil development.
2. Rainfall:
   • Adequate and well-distributed rainfall is critical for successful lentil cultivation. Lentils require sufficient moisture during planting, flowering, and pod filling stages.
   • The ideal rainfall range for lentil farming in Kenya is approximately 400-600 mm (15.7-23.6 inches) per growing season.
   • Excessive or uneven rainfall can lead to waterlogging, fungal diseases, and reduced yields.
3. Altitude:
   • Lentils are well-suited for cultivation at altitudes ranging from 1,200 meters to 2,500 meters above sea level.
   • Higher altitudes provide cooler temperatures, which are favorable for lentil growth.
4. Sunlight:
   • Lentils require plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. They are considered photoperiod neutral, meaning they do not have specific day-length requirements for flowering.
5. Frost:
   • Lentils are relatively tolerant of light frosts, making them suitable for cultivation in higher altitude regions. However, severe frost can damage the crop.
6. Soil:
   • Well-drained soils are essential for lentil farming. Lentils do not tolerate waterlogged or heavy clay soils.
   • Sandy loam to loam soils with good structure and organic matter content are ideal.
   • Lentils generally prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils. The optimal pH range for lentil cultivation is around 6.0 to 7.5.
7. Growing Seasons:
   • The main growing seasons for lentil farming in Kenya are typically the short rains (October to December) and long rains (March to May) seasons.
   • Planting during the beginning of the rainy season is crucial for ensuring adequate moisture during critical growth stages.
8. Disease and Pest Management:
   • Climatic conditions can influence the prevalence of pests and diseases. Proper management practices are essential to control potential threats such as aphids, thrips, and fungal infections.
9. Microclimates:
   • Kenya’s diverse agro-ecological zones offer different microclimates suitable for lentil cultivation. Some areas with favorable microclimates may include highland regions and certain parts of the Rift Valley.

Seedlings Preparation on lentil Farming In Kenya

Seed preparation is a critical step in lentil farming that involves selecting, treating, and ensuring the quality of seeds before planting. Proper seed preparation can greatly influence germination rates, plant health, and overall crop performance. Here are the key aspects of seed preparation for lentil farming in Kenya:

1. Seed Selection:
   • Choose seeds from reputable sources that offer certified and disease-free lentil varieties suitable for your region.
   • Opt for seeds with high germination rates and good genetic traits, such as resistance to pests and diseases.
2. Seed Treatment:
   • Depending on the condition of the seeds and the prevailing challenges, various treatments can be applied:
     • Seed Priming: Soaking seeds in water to initiate germination, followed by drying before planting. This can enhance uniform germination and early growth.
     • Seed Coating: Applying a protective layer or coating to seeds to improve moisture retention, nutrient uptake, and disease resistance.
     • Biological and Chemical Treatments: Treating seeds with beneficial microorganisms or fungicides to protect against soil-borne diseases.
3. Pre-Planting Treatment:
   • Inspect seeds for quality, removing damaged, shriveled, or discolored seeds.
   • Sort seeds by size to ensure uniform planting depth and germination.
4. Seed Inoculation:
   • Leguminous crops like lentils can benefit from seed inoculation with rhizobia bacteria. This enhances nitrogen fixation, leading to improved plant growth and yield.
5. Seed Storage:
   • Properly store treated seeds in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area before planting. Protect seeds from direct sunlight, pests, and moisture.
6. Seed Spacing and Planting Depth:
   • Determine the appropriate spacing and planting depth for the specific lentil variety being planted.
   • Use appropriate planting equipment to achieve consistent seed spacing and depth.
7. Planting Timing:
   • Plant seeds during the recommended planting season for your region, taking into account prevailing climatic conditions.
8. Seed Bed Preparation:
   • Prepare the planting area by plowing, harrowing, and leveling the soil to create a suitable seedbed.
9. Seeding Rate:
   • Calculate and apply the recommended seeding rate based on the lentil variety and desired plant population per unit area.
10. Post-Planting Care:
    • After planting, monitor the emergence of seedlings and address any issues promptly, such as poor germination or pest infestations.

Planting and Spacing Lentils

1. Row Spacing:
   • The optimal row spacing for lentils typically ranges from 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm).
   • Wider row spacing allows for better air circulation, sunlight penetration, and easier weed management.
2. Intra-Row Spacing:
   • Within each row, space lentil seeds at a distance of about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) apart.
   • This spacing provides enough room for individual plants to grow and develop without excessive competition.
3. Seeding Rate:
   • The seeding rate for lentils can vary based on the lentil variety, desired plant population, and local recommendations.
   • As a general guideline, a seeding rate of 30 to 60 kg of lentil seeds per hectare (12 to 24 kg per acre) is commonly used.
4. Calculating Seeding Rate:
   • To calculate the seeding rate, you can use the following formula:

     Seeding Rate (kg/acre) = Desired Plant Population (plants/acre) × Seeds per Plant ÷ Germination Percentage

     For example, if you want a plant population of 150,000 plants per acre, each plant produces an average of 10 seeds, and the germination rate is 85%, the seeding rate would be:

     Seeding Rate (kg/acre) = 150,000 plants/acre × 10 seeds/plant ÷ 0.85 (85%) ≈ 17,647 kg/acre

5. Planting Depth:
   • Plant lentil seeds at a depth of about 0.8 to 1.6 inches (2 to 4 cm) into the soil.
   • Adequate planting depth helps ensure good seed-to-soil contact for germination while avoiding excessive burial.

How to Plant Lentils