Pepino Melon Farming In Kenya; A Comprehensive Cultivation Guide

Pepino melon, also known as pepino dulce or sweet cucumber, is a tropical fruit that is native to South America but can be successfully grown in various regions of Kenya with suitable climatic conditions. Pepino melon farming in Kenya has gained popularity due to the fruit’s sweet and refreshing taste, as well as its potential for commercial cultivation.

Pepinos are small to medium-sized fruits, averaging 5 to 9 centimeters in length, with some varieties growing up to 15 centimeters in length. The fruits are variable in size and shape, generally 300 to 500 grams in weight, and have a round, cordate, pear, to egg-like shape with blunt and tapered, curved ends.

The fruit’s skin ripens from green to pale yellow, golden yellow, yellow-orange, to solid purple, depending on the variety, and the skin sometimes exhibits purple striping. The skin is also smooth, taut, glossy, and firm, hardening into a tough, often unpalatable texture when mature. Despite this tough exterior, the surface is still easily bruised and damaged with handled roughly. Underneath the skin, the pale to golden yellow flesh is soft, tender, aqueous, succulent, and textured, similar to a pear.

The flesh also encases a small central cavity filled with a few to many edible seeds. Pepinos are entirely edible and release a sweet, green scent reminiscent of honeydew, cucumber, vanilla, and honey when ripe. Select Pepinos that feel heavy for their size, have a noticeable fragrance, are yellow and not green, and give slightly to pressure around the stem end. Unripe Pepinos will have a vegetal, grassy taste, while ripe Pepinos contain a refreshing, mild, and light cantaloupe, pear, and cucumber flavor.

It a species of evergreen shrub and vegetative propagated by stem cuttings and esteemed for its edible fruit. Fruits are juicy, scented, mild sweet and colour may be white, cream, yellow, maroon, or purplish, sometimes with purple stripes at maturity, whilst the shape may be spherical, conical,
heart-shaped or horn-shaped. Apart from its attractive morphological features, the pepino fruit has been attributed antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antitumoral activities.

The pepino fruit resembles a melon (Cucumis melo) in color and its flavor recalls a succulent mixture of honeydew and cucumber, thus it is also sometimes called pepino melon or melon pear but pepinos are only very distantly related to melons and pears. It is a ground cover and trailing plant. This species is, however, a close relative of other nightshades cultivated for their fruit, including the tomato and the eggplant, which its own fruit closely resembles.

The fruits may be variable in fruit size, shape, and colour, but they generally weigh between 80 and 250 g, are round to elongated in shape and have a yellow skin with purple (when immature or ripe) or brown (when fully ripe) longitudinal stripes that cover a variable part of the fruit surface. The pepino fruits are considered very refreshing, as they have a high moisture content (typically above 90%), and are very aromatic.

Cultivation of Pepino In Kenya

The pepino is evolutively linked to the tomato and the growing techniques commonly used for
tomato can be used for pepino cultivation. Cultivation of this fruit is possible in temperate conditions as long as winter protection is provided, or the crop is grown as an annual but pepino needs more time to mature than other widely known Solanaceae vegetable crops, such as the tomato, pepper and eggplant; as a consequence, in many cases, pepinos are grown as a greenhouse crop.

Pepino is relatively hardy and in its’ native range, it grows at altitudes ranging from close to sea level up to 3,000 m (10,000 ft.). However, it performs best in a warm, relatively frost-free climate.

The plant can survive a low temperature of -2.5°C (27 to 28°F) if the freeze is not prolonged, though it may drop many of its leaves. The species is a perennial, but its sensitivity to chilling, pests, and diseases force the growers to replant the crop every year. The crop also adapts well to greenhouse cultivation, training the plants up to 2 m tall, and obtaining yields that are 2-3 times larger than those obtained outdoors.

Pepinos’ seeds are fertile and produce vigorous offspring which are highly heterozygous and do not breed true but it has to be vegetatively reproduced, either primarily by cuttings taken from healthy mother plants or by in vitro micro propagation techniques as a consequence, its genetic structure could be different from that of seed-propagated crops.

Its’ cuttings can establish easily without rooting hormones. It is grown in a manner similar to its relatives such as the tomato, though it grows naturally upright by habit and can thus be cultivated as a free-standing bush, though it is sometimes pruned on trellises.

Additionally, supports are sometimes used to keep the weight of the fruit from pulling the plant down. It has luxurious vegetative growth, which may compete with fruit set; it is thus advantageous, especially for greenhouse cultivation, to either prune the plants by removing the lateral side-shots and training them in a one to several leaders system, or to trellis them between double horizontal wires in a hedge like manner; also, nitrogen fertilization should be limited to avoid excessive vegetative growth.

Pepino melon has a fast growth rate and bears fruit within 4 to 6 months after planting. It is a perennial, but is usually cultivated as an annual.

Seedlings are intolerant of weeds, but it can later easily compete with low growing weeds. Like their relatives tomatoes, eggplants, tomatillos and tamarillos, pepinos are extremely attractive to beetles,
aphids, white flies and spider mites. Pepinos are tolerant of most soil types, but require constant moisture for good fruit production. Pepino melons prefer well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5.

Established bushes show some tolerance to drought stress, but this typically affects yield. The plants are parthenocarpic, meaning it needs no pollination to set fruit, though pollination will encourage fruiting. Fruit quality, and especially sugar concentration, is greatly influenced by temperature during ripening; that is, when maximum temperatures during ripening exceed 30ºC, a considerable reduction in the sugar content takes place; as a consequence, if premium organoleptic fruit quality is desired, growing cycles for pepinos, either outdoors or in greenhouses, should be planned to avoid high temperatures during ripening.

Varieties Of Pepino Melon Grown In Kenya

There are three main varieties of pepino melon grown in Kenya:

• Golden pepino: This is the most common variety, and is known for its sweet, juicy flavor and golden yellow flesh. The fruit is typically oval-shaped and weighs about 200-300 grams.
• Purple pepino: This variety has a purple-striped rind and a white flesh that is slightly sweeter than the golden pepino. The purple pepino is also larger, with fruits weighing up to 500 grams.
• Kiwi pepino: This variety has a green rind and a kiwi-like flesh that is both sweet and tangy. The kiwi pepino is the smallest of the three varieties, with fruits weighing about 100-200 grams.

All three varieties of pepino melon can be eaten fresh, used in salads, or cooked in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and dietary fiber.

In addition to the three main varieties, there are also a number of other pepino melon varieties grown in Kenya, including:

• Ambrosia: This variety has a light green rind and a white flesh that is very sweet.
• Consuelo: This variety has a purple rind and a white flesh that is both sweet and tart.
• Golden Nugget: This variety is a miniature version of the golden pepino.
• Sweet Treat: This variety has a yellow rind and a white flesh that is very sweet.

Pepino melons are grown in a variety of regions in Kenya, but the main production areas are the Central Highlands, the Rift Valley, and the Western Highlands. The best time to harvest pepino melons is during the cool season, from June to September.

Pepino melon farming is becoming increasingly popular in Kenya, as the fruit is becoming more popular among consumers both domestically and internationally. Pepino melons are a high-value crop, and can be a profitable venture for farmers.

Melons thrive best in rich, slightly sandy soils with pH levels from 6 to 6,5. They do not like soggy soils. Heavy clay soils with poor drainage and aeration should be avoided. Melon farming requires extensive soil preparation before planting, in order to be profitable and lead to high yields.

Soil Requirements and Preparation for Pepino Melon Farming

Melons thrive best in rich, slightly sandy soils with pH levels from 6 to 6.5. They do not like soggy soils. Heavy clay soils with poor drainage and aeration should be avoided. Melon farming requires extensive soil preparation before planting, in order to be profitable and lead to high yields.

The basic soil preparation starts about 3 months before transplanting melon seedlings. Farmers plow well at that time. Plowing improves soil aeration and drainage. At the same time, plowing removes rocks and other undesirable materials from the soil.

One week before planting, many farmers apply a pre-planting fertilizer such as manure or synthetic commercial fertilizer, always after consulting an agronomist. Consequently, there is no reason to apply the pre-planting fertilizer to the entire field. A good technique is to mark the areas you are going to plant and then apply the fertilizer towards the lines. The next day is probably the right time to install the drip irrigation pipes. Following the installation, some farmers can apply soil disinfection substances through the irrigation system, in case soil analysis has revealed soil infection problems

Pepino Growing From Seeds

The key to growing pepino melon from seed is getting plants started early. They can bear fruit about 4-6 months after being planted, but it can take up to a year for a plant to fruit. Pepino melon seeds can be difficult to find.

For growing outdoors, melons need on average 100 to 130 days from seeding to harvesting. However, if you are planning to grow melon from seed, there are some facts you need to know. First, melon seeds require at least 18 °C (64 °F) soil temperature in order to germinate.

Second, it is important for the seed to have optimum moisture levels in order to sprout. Over irrigation can be harmful. Some producers water thoroughly the soil a day before direct seeding and do not irrigate again, until the seeds sprout. However, this is not a good technique if the soil has difficulties in preserving enough available water.

Many producers normally plant the seeds in hills or raised beds. If they have not applied manure before planting, they dig holes 14 to 16 inches (35-40 cm) deep and wide and add the manure. They mix the manure with the soil removed and create small hills.

Next, they plant 3-5 seeds in each hill at a depth of 1 inch (3 cm). It crucial for the soil to have enough humidity at this stage. As for the seeding distances, a commonly used pattern is 90–120 cm (3–4 ft) between seeds in a row and 150–180 cm (5–6 ft) between rows. At the time the seedlings have developed 1-2 true leaves, many producers remove the extra seedlings, leaving 2-3 healthy plants per hill.

Melon seeds germinate relatively easily in 4-7 days depending on the weather and soil conditions. They prefer to use turf as substrate for optimum aeration. They start their transplants indoors 2-3 weeks before transplanting. Some producers harden the plants for 3-6 days before transplanting them at their final positions.

Growing Pepino Melon from Cuttings

If you have access to an established pepino melon plant, the easiest way to grow a new one is by taking cuttings. Plants grown from cuttings will fruit earlier than ones grown from seed and will be identical to the parent plant. If you don’t know anyone with a pepino melon plant, you can order live plants here.

Take leaf-only cuttings from a healthy plant that are about 4-6” in length. Bring the cuttings inside and trim off the bottom ⅓-½ of leaves. It’s important to trim off leaves when you’re propagating plants so they don’t lose excess moisture through their leaves before having adequate roots.

You can root the cuttings either in water or in a sterile seed starting mix, but make sure that the remaining leaves don’t touch either the water or the soil. You can use a rooting hormone to speed the process up. Nightshades usually root well without rooting hormone, but not always. Place your cuttings in indirect sunlight and check them regularly.

If your cuttings are in soil, water them just enough to keep the soil moist but never soggy. If they are in water, change the water every 3-4 days.

It should take about 2 weeks for the cuttings to start rooting. At this time, you can plant water cuttings in soil and transfer soil cuttings to larger pots if necessary. Also, you can now place the rooted cuttings in direct sunlight or under grow lights as they continue to grow.

How To Grow Pepino Melon Cuttings In Soil

Place the 4-inch (10cm) pepino melon cuttings in pots of well-draining soil. Keep the pots in a well-lit spot out of direct sunlight. Water daily.

Within a few weeks, roots will form and pepino melon plants can be ‘hardened off’ before planting into the garden.

How To Grow Pepino Melon Plants By Soil Layering

Pepino will also grow roots from branches that touch the ground. You can encourage this by laying a branch on the ground and covering a portion of the branch with soil.

Once the branch has developed its own roots, you can easily cut the branch from the original mother plant and transplant it elsewhere in the garden.

Water the new Pepino Melon plant well and often until it is established in its new position.

Pepino melon plant population per acre

The plant population and yield per acre on pepino melon farming in Kenya can vary depending on the variety of pepino melon grown, the climate, and the management practices used. However, a typical plant population for pepino melon farming in Kenya is around 4000-4900 plants per acre. With proper crop management, a well-managed pepino plant can produce on average more than 200 fruits per year.

On average, a well-managed pepino melon plantation can yield between 10 to 15 tons per acre. However, yields can range from 5 to 20 tons per acre or even more, depending on the conditions and practices. However, it is important to note that these are just estimates, and the actual yield may vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

Cost of Pepino Melon Production per Acre in Kenya

Expenses:

1. Land Preparation:
   • Clearing and plowing: 10,000 Kshs per acre.
   • Soil testing and preparation: 5,000 Kshs per acre.
2. Seedlings:
   • Cost of seeds or seedlings (if not using ready-to-plant seedlings): 6,500 Kshs per acre.
   • Cost of ready-to-plant seedlings: 200,000 Kshs per acre (if using this option).
3. Fertilizers and Soil Amendments:
   • Organic compost or manure: 10,000 Kshs per acre.
   • Inorganic fertilizers: 8,000 Kshs per acre.
4. Irrigation:
   • Drip irrigation system installation: 20,000 Kshs per acre.
   • Cost of water: 15,000 Kshs per acre.
5. Pest and Disease Control:
   • Pesticides and fungicides: 5,000 Kshs per acre.
6. Labor:
   • Hiring labor for planting, weeding, and harvesting: 30,000 Kshs per acre.
7. Miscellaneous Expenses:
   • Tools, equipment, and other miscellaneous expenses: 5,000 Kshs per acre.

Total Expenses (Using Seeds/Seedlings): 109,500 Kshs per acre Total Expenses (Using Ready-to-Plant Seedlings): 365,000 Kshs per acre

Revenues:

1. pepino Melon Yield:
   • Assuming a yield of 12 tons per acre and a market price of 50 Kshs per kilogram, the total revenue would be: 12,000 kg/acre * 50 Kshs/kg = 600,000 Kshs per acre.

Profit Calculation (Using Seeds/Seedlings):

Expected Profit = Total Revenue – Total Expenses (Using Seeds/Seedlings) Expected Profit = 600,000 Kshs – 109,500 Kshs Expected Profit = 490,500 Kshs per acre

Profit Calculation (Using Ready-to-Plant Seedlings):

Expected Profit = Total Revenue – Total Expenses (Using Ready-to-Plant Seedlings) Expected Profit = 600,000 Kshs – 365,000 Kshs Expected Profit = 235,000 Kshs per acre

So, with seeds or seedlings costing 6,500 Kshs per acre, the expected profit per acre of pepino melon production is approximately 490,500 Kshs. However, if you choose to use ready-to-plant seedlings costing 200,000 Kshs per acre, the expected profit per acre would be approximately 235,000 Kshs. These figures are estimates and may vary based on actual expenses and market conditions.

Additional notes:

• The cost of land preparation may vary depending on the condition of the land and the location.
• The cost of seeds or cuttings may vary depending on the variety of pepino melon grown.
• The cost of fertilizer, pesticides, and herbicides may vary depending on the specific products used.
• The cost of irrigation may vary depending on the source of water and the method of irrigation used.
• The cost of labor may vary depending on the region and the type of labor required.
• The price of pepino melons may vary depending on the time of year, the quality of the fruit, and the market.

Farmers can increase their profits by reducing their expenses and increasing their yield. For example, farmers can save money on fertilizer by using organic fertilizers or by composting. Farmers can also increase their yield by using improved management practices, such as drip irrigation and integrated pest management.

Market For Pepino Melon In Kenya

The market for pepino melon in Kenya is growing rapidly. The fruit is becoming increasingly popular among consumers due to its sweet, juicy flavor and its numerous health benefits. Pepino melons are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and dietary fiber.

The main market for pepino melon in Kenya is the domestic market. However, the fruit is also being exported to other countries in Africa, Europe, and Asia. The export market for pepino melon is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

The prices of pepino melon in Kenya vary depending on the time of year, the quality of the fruit, and the market. However, pepino melons are generally considered to be a premium fruit.

Here are some key points about the market for pepino melon in Kenya:

1. Urban Demand: The demand for pepino melon is particularly strong in urban areas of Kenya, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and major towns. Urban consumers are increasingly looking for unique and healthy fruit options, and pepino melon fits this demand.
2. Supermarkets and Retailers: Pepino melons are now available in many supermarkets and retail outlets across Kenya. Supermarket chains and grocery stores are an important distribution channel for reaching urban consumers.
3. Local Markets: Local open-air markets and roadside fruit vendors also play a significant role in selling pepino melons. These markets serve both urban and rural customers.
4. Direct-to-Consumer Sales: Some pepino melon farmers in Kenya opt for direct-to-consumer sales, either through farm stands or by participating in farmers’ markets. This approach allows farmers to establish a direct connection with consumers and potentially earn higher profits.
5. Export Opportunities: While the domestic market is significant, there is also export potential for pepino melons, especially to neighboring countries. To tap into the export market, farmers must meet quality standards and comply with phytosanitary regulations.
6. Value-Added Products: Some entrepreneurs in Kenya have explored value-added products like pepino melon jams, juices, and preserves. These products can offer additional market opportunities and help reduce post-harvest losses.
7. Restaurant and Hotel Industry: The hospitality industry, including restaurants and hotels, is another potential market for pepino melons. Chefs and foodservice professionals may use pepino melon in various culinary creations.

Nutritional Value

Pepinos are a source of copper to develop connective tissues, potassium to balance fluid levels within the body, vitamin A to maintain healthy organ functioning, and fiber to regulate the digestive tract. The fruits also provide vitamin C to strengthen the immune system, calcium to build strong bones and teeth, manganese to assist in amino acid metabolism, and other nutrients, including vitamin K, iron, B vitamins, riboflavin, folate, niacin, and antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and lower stress in the body.

Pests and Diseases that affect Pepino Melon Farming in Kenya

Pepino melon farming in Kenya, like any other agricultural endeavor, can be affected by various pests and diseases. It’s crucial for farmers to be aware of these potential issues and to implement appropriate pest and disease management strategies. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect pepino melon farming in Kenya:

Pests:

1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the transmission of viral diseases.
2. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny, white insects that feed on the undersides of leaves. They can cause leaf curling, yellowing, and the transmission of plant viruses.
3. Thrips: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on plant tissues, causing silvering or stippling of leaves. They can also transmit viruses.
4. Spider Mites: These are tiny arachnids that suck plant sap, leading to stippled and discolored leaves.
5. Fruit Flies: Fruit flies can damage pepino melon fruits by laying their eggs in them, leading to fruit infestation and spoilage.
6. Nematodes: Root-knot nematodes can attack the roots of pepino melon plants, causing root galling and reducing the plant’s ability to take up nutrients and water.

Diseases:

1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery growth on the leaves. It can reduce photosynthesis and overall plant health.
2. Bacterial Wilt: Bacterial wilt is a serious disease caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum. It can lead to wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant.
3. Leaf Spot: Various fungal and bacterial leaf spot diseases can affect pepino melon leaves, causing small, dark spots that may enlarge and merge.
4. Viruses: Several viruses can infect pepino melon plants, often transmitted by insect vectors like aphids and whiteflies. Common viruses include cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV).

Management Strategies:

To manage pests and diseases in pepino melon farming, consider the following strategies:

1. Crop Rotation: Rotate pepino melon with other crops to reduce the buildup of soil-borne pathogens.
2. Use of Resistant Varieties: Choose pepino melon varieties that are resistant to specific pests and diseases if available.
3. Good Sanitation: Remove and destroy infected plants and plant debris to prevent the spread of diseases.
4. Pest Monitoring: Regularly inspect your crop for signs of pests and diseases and take action when necessary.
5. Biological Control: Consider using beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or predatory mites, to control aphids and other pests.
6. Chemical Control: If pest or disease infestations become severe, you may need to use approved pesticides or fungicides as a last resort. Follow label instructions and consider organic alternatives.
7. Proper Irrigation and Fertilization: Maintain proper irrigation and fertilization practices to keep plants healthy and less susceptible to stress-related diseases.

FAQs on Pepino Melon Farming In Kenya

Q1: What is pepino melon, and can it be grown in Kenya?

A: Pepino melon, also known as sweet cucumber, is a tropical fruit native to South America. Yes, it can be successfully grown in various regions of Kenya with suitable climatic conditions, such as those found in parts of Rift Valley, Western Kenya, Central Kenya, and some areas in the highlands.

Q2: What are the key climate requirements for growing pepino melon in Kenya?

A: Pepino melons thrive in a warm, tropical to subtropical climate. They require temperatures between 15°C and 25°C and do not tolerate frost. Adequate rainfall or irrigation is also essential for their growth.

Q3: How do I propagate pepino melon plants?

A: Pepino melon plants can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds are usually sown in nurseries and then transplanted into the field when they have developed strong seedlings. Stem cuttings can also be used for propagation.

Q4: What is the planting season for pepino melon in Kenya?

A: Pepino melons are typically planted during the rainy season or when there is sufficient soil moisture. The specific planting season may vary depending on your region in Kenya.

Q5: What is the average yield per acre, and when can I expect to harvest pepino melons?

A: Pepino melons can yield between 10 to 15 tons per acre when well-managed. Harvesting usually begins about 4 to 6 months after planting, depending on growing conditions and the variety.

Q6: What are the common pests and diseases affecting pepino melon farming in Kenya?

A: Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, thrips, spider mites, and fruit flies. Diseases include powdery mildew, bacterial wilt, leaf spot diseases, and various plant viruses.

Q7: How can I manage pests and diseases in pepino melon farming?

A: Pest and disease management strategies include crop rotation, using resistant varieties, good sanitation practices, pest monitoring, biological control (e.g., beneficial insects), and, as a last resort, approved pesticides or fungicides.

Q8: What is the market potential for pepino melons in Kenya?

A: Pepino melons have a growing market in Kenya, particularly in urban areas and supermarkets. Farmers can sell their produce at local markets, to retailers, or directly to consumers.

Q9: What are some challenges in pepino melon farming in Kenya?

A: Challenges can include pest and disease pressure, market access, the cost of inputs, and the need for proper infrastructure and transportation. Farmers should also adapt to local conditions and stay informed about best practices.

Q11: How should I prepare the soil for pepino melon farming?

A: Prepare the soil by clearing it of weeds and debris. Conduct soil testing to determine nutrient levels and pH. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve fertility and water-holding capacity.

Q12: Is irrigation necessary for pepino melon farming in Kenya?

A: Yes, irrigation is often necessary, especially during the dry season or in regions with irregular rainfall. Drip irrigation is a common and efficient method to ensure consistent moisture for pepino melon plants.

Q13: Can I intercrop pepino melons with other crops?

A: Yes, intercropping pepino melons with compatible crops can be beneficial. It can help maximize land use and reduce the risk of pests and diseases. Common companion crops include beans, sweet corn, and legumes.

Q14: How do I determine when pepino melons are ripe for harvest?

A: Ripe pepino melons are firm, have a vibrant color (often yellow or orange), and should easily detach from the plant when gently twisted or pulled. Taste testing can also help determine ripeness; they should be sweet and flavorful.

Q15: What are the post-harvest handling practices for pepino melons?

A: Handle pepino melons with care to avoid bruising. Store them in a cool, dry place or a refrigerator. Proper packaging can help extend their shelf life. Consider delivering them to the market as soon as possible for freshness.

Q16: Are there any organic farming practices suitable for pepino melon cultivation?

A: Yes, organic farming practices can be applied to pepino melon farming. This includes using organic fertilizers, compost, and natural pest control methods, such as releasing beneficial insects and practicing crop rotation.

Q17: Can I export pepino melons from Kenya?

A: Yes, there is export potential for pepino melons, especially to neighboring countries and international markets. However, exporting requires adherence to quality standards and meeting phytosanitary and regulatory requirements, so it’s essential to research export procedures thoroughly.

Q18: How do I market my pepino melons in Kenya?

A: You can market your pepino melons through local markets, roadside stalls, supermarkets, and direct-to-consumer sales. Consider building relationships with local buyers, exploring online marketplaces, and participating in agricultural fairs and exhibitions.

Q19: Are there any training and support programs available for pepino melon farmers in Kenya?

A: Yes, various government and non-governmental organizations offer training, extension services, and support programs for farmers in Kenya. These programs often provide valuable information on best practices, pest and disease management, and market access.

Q20: How can I stay informed about the latest developments in pepino melon farming in Kenya?

A: Stay connected with local agricultural extension services, agricultural associations, and research institutions. Attend workshops, seminars, and farmer training programs to keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in pepino melon farming and related technologies.