A Complete Guide On Pineapple Farming In Kenya

Pineapple farming in Kenya has gained significant popularity due to its profitability and suitability to the country’s climate. Pineapples, scientifically known as Ananas comosus, are tropical fruits that do well in warm and humid conditions, making Kenya an ideal location for farming.

The fruit is rich in vitamin A and C and minerals like P, Ca, Mg, K and Fe. The fruit as well as the other plant parts like stem contain a proteolytic enzyme, bromelin, which helps the digestion process. This is used for tenderizing meat and in the leather tanning process. The fruit contains fairly good amount of fibres, which help in the bowel movement, including pineapple in the daily diet eliminate indigestion problems.

Pineapple is fairly drought resistant but for high yields a well distributed annual rainfall of at least 1000mm is required. A regular supply of soil moisture is essential. Altitude has an important effect on flavor of fruit. The optimum altitude for pineapple culture is up to 1100m above sea level. Frost-free area should be selected for cultivation since plants are highly susceptible to frost.

The optimum temperature is between 22-23^oC. Leaf growth is the best at 32^oC and root growth at 29⁰C, their growth completely ceasing below 20^oC and above 36oC. Exposure to direct strong sunlight results in sunburn of fruits leading to partial drying, dessication, less juice content and cracking of fruits. Optimum precipitation for commercial pineapple cultivation ranges from 1000-1500 mm/year. Water logging is very harmful to growth of pineapple, being a shallow rooted plant.

Pineapple grows well on a wide range of soils. However, the best soil can be a well drained, and loam with a good content of organic matter, friable for a depth of at least 60 cm and with a pH range of 4.5-6.0.

To engage in pineapple farming, it is crucial to understand the essential aspects of the process. Firstly, selecting the right variety of pineapple is important. In Kenya, popular varieties include Smooth Cayenne, MD2, and Queen, each with its own characteristics and market preferences.

Before planting, proper land preparation is necessary. Pineapples prefer well-drained soils with good organic matter content. Clearing the land, plowing, and harrowing are typical land preparation practices. Additionally, incorporating organic manure or compost into the soil enhances fertility and improves overall plant growth.

Propagation of pineapples is done through vegetative means, primarily using suckers or crowns. Suckers are the shoots that grow from the base of the mother plant, while crowns are the leafy tops. These propagules are planted in rows or beds, ensuring adequate spacing for optimal growth and easy access for maintenance activities.

Pineapples require regular and adequate watering, especially during dry spells. Drip irrigation systems or furrow irrigation methods are commonly employed to ensure the plants receive sufficient moisture without excessive waterlogging. Mulching is also beneficial to conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and maintain soil temperature.

Weed control is crucial in pineapple farming to prevent competition for nutrients and water. Manual weeding or the use of herbicides can effectively manage weeds. However, it is important to follow proper application procedures and adhere to safety guidelines when using chemicals.

Pineapple plants require proper nutrition to achieve optimal growth and fruit production. Balanced fertilizers containing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are applied at specific intervals throughout the growing season. Soil testing is recommended to determine the specific nutrient requirements for your pineapple plantation.

Pest and disease management is critical to protect the pineapple crop. Common pests include mealybugs, fruit flies, and nematodes, while diseases like fusarium wilt and root rot can affect plant health. Integrated pest management strategies, including regular monitoring, cultural practices, and judicious use of organic or chemical control methods, are essential to minimize damage and ensure healthy plants.

Harvesting of pineapples usually occurs when the fruits reach their full maturity and develop the desired sweetness and aroma. Pineapples are harvested by cutting the fruit from the plant, leaving a portion of the stem attached. Proper handling and storage techniques are crucial to maintain fruit quality and prevent post-harvest losses.

In terms of market opportunities, the demand for pineapples both locally and internationally remains high. Local markets, supermarkets, fruit vendors, and export markets provide avenues for selling pineapples. Additionally, value-added products such as pineapple juice, dried pineapple, and pineapple jam can be explored to diversify income streams.

Pineapple farming in Kenya offers a promising venture for farmers seeking profitable agricultural opportunities. With proper planning, cultivation practices, and market strategies, pineapple farming can yield rewarding results and contribute to the economic growth of the country.

Popular Pineapple Varieties In Kenya

Smooth Cayenne Pineapple Variety

This is the most widely cultivated pineapple variety in Kenya. It has a golden-yellow flesh, a sweet-tart flavor, and a high juice content. Smooth Cayenne pineapples are commonly used for canning, juice production, and fresh consumption.

MD2 (Golden Pineapple) Pineapple Variety

MD2 is a hybrid variety known for its sweet taste and low acidity. It has a golden-yellow flesh, a firm texture, and a high sugar content. MD2 pineapples are popular for fresh consumption and are often exported due to their superior quality and extended shelf life.

Queen Pineapple Variety

Queen pineapples are recognized for their compact size, cylindrical shape, and sweet flavor. They have a vibrant golden-yellow flesh and are often used for fresh consumption and juicing. Queen pineapples are favored for their high sugar content and aromatic qualities.

Pwani Hybrid Pineapple Variety

Developed by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), the Pwani Hybrid variety is known for its disease resistance and high yield potential. It has a sweet flavor, yellow flesh, and is suitable for both local consumption and processing.

Smooth-Leaf Cayenne Pineapple Variety

Similar to the Smooth Cayenne variety, the Smooth-Leaf Cayenne has the same flavor and characteristics. However, it is distinguished by its smoother leaves, making it less susceptible to leaf damage caused by thrips.

Red Spanish Pineapple Variety

Although less commonly grown, the Red Spanish variety features a reddish or orange-yellow skin and a vibrant yellow flesh. It has a tangy flavor and is often used for juicing or as a decorative fruit.

These are just a few examples of the popular pineapple varieties grown in Kenya. Each variety has its unique characteristics, flavor profiles, and market applications. Farmers choose the variety that aligns with their specific goals, market demand, and local growing conditions.

Land preparation On Pineapple Farming

• Site Selection: Choose a site with well-drained soil and good sunlight exposure. Pineapples prefer loamy or sandy soils with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.5. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging or with heavy clay soils.
• Clearing and Land Cleaning: Clear the land of any existing vegetation, including grass, weeds, or bushes. Remove rocks, debris, and tree stumps that may hinder planting operations and impede the growth of pineapple plants.
• Plowing: Use a tractor or plow to turn over the soil, breaking it up and loosening any compacted layers. Plowing helps to improve soil aeration, water infiltration, and root penetration.
• Harrowing: Follow plowing with harrowing to further break down soil clumps and level the surface. Harrowing prepares a finer seedbed, making it easier for seedlings or suckers to establish themselves.
• Soil Testing and Amendment: Conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient content and pH level of the soil. Based on the test results, add organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and structure. Lime or sulfur may be applied to adjust the pH if necessary.
• Bed Formation: Form raised beds or ridges to facilitate better drainage and prevent waterlogging. The width and height of the beds depend on the specific requirements of the pineapple variety being cultivated.
• Basal Fertilizer Application: Apply a balanced basal fertilizer before planting. The fertilizer should contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the recommended application rates based on soil test recommendations or general guidelines for pineapple farming.
• Marking and Planting Holes: Mark the planting spots or rows on the prepared beds to ensure accurate spacing. Dig holes of sufficient size to accommodate the pineapple suckers or crowns, leaving the top part of the crown exposed above the soil.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as dried leaves or straw, around the base of the pineapple plants. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and maintain more stable soil temperatures.
• Irrigation and Drainage: Set up an irrigation system, such as drip irrigation or furrow irrigation, to provide adequate moisture to the pineapple plants. Proper drainage is equally important to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

Seed selection and planting :

• Seed preparation using  suckers
• Seed preparation using  crown
• Slip shoot
• Tissue culture.

Suckers are shoots growing from buds below the ground level and shoots are leaf branches produced from buds in the axils of leaves above ground levels. Both suckers and shoots are produced as daughter plants by side of mother plant, in the post flowering stage.

Slips are smaller structures arising from fruit stalks. Crowns which adorns the fruits grow as extention of the central core of fruits and have a large number of leaves arranged closely on a central axils. Tissue culture suckers are produced in laboratory and they are generally disease free.

Performance of plants in terms of vigour, duration, fruit size and quality varies depending on the type and size of planting materials used. Shoots and suckers yield fruits in 17-18 months, slips in 18-20 months and crowns in 22-24 months.

Planting Pineapple

Planting is done by hand, with or without the aid of a planting machine. Use of the latter results in uniform, neat plantations.

Plant spacing:

• Spacing from ridge centre to ridge centre: 1, 5 m.
•  Each ridge must carry a double row of plants.
•  Spacing between rows should be 60 cm.
•  Spacing between the plants in the row: 30 cm

Planting season:

• • Planting takes place at the beginning of the rainy season or it can start any time in the irrigated areas.
  •  Scaly leaves should be removed from the lower portion of the propagule stem to expose the primodia (future roots). If this is not done, establishment will take long.

Planting density:

• • Pineapple plants respond very positively to high density planting giving satisfactory results under different growing regions.
  •  Some farmers use double rows, others 3 rows, others more.
  • Pineapples are generally planted in double rows spaced with 60cm between the rows, 50cm between plants 120 cm between adjacent double rows. The propagules are planted in these recommended spacing, following triangular method.

Planting methods:

• Flat bed planting: planting is done on flat beds in lines in areas where soil erosion is not a problem.
• Raised bed planting: this system is suitable for low-lying lands. In general, 2-3 lines planting is practiced on raised beds. The channels in between beds facilitate proper drainage and if necessary can be used for irrigation purpose.
• Furrow planting: Field is laid out in trenches, generally 90cm width alternating with mounds. In sloppy areas, trenches are to be made across the slop. Depth of the trenches may be about 22.5 to 30 cm.
• Contour planting: In order to prevent soil erosion due to excessive rainfall, contour planting is advisable.

1. Selecting Planting Material:
   • Pineapples can be propagated using suckers or crowns. Suckers are shoots that grow at the base of the mother plant, while crowns are the leafy tops of harvested pineapples.
   • Choose healthy and disease-free suckers or crowns from reliable sources. Look for ones that have a firm base and fresh green leaves.
2. Preparing the Planting Holes:
   • Dig planting holes in the prepared beds or ridges. The size of the holes should be sufficient to accommodate the roots of the pineapple plant.
   • Ensure proper spacing between plants, typically around 60 to 90 centimeters apart, depending on the variety and planting system.
3. Planting the Suckers or Crowns:
   • Place the suckers or crowns into the planting holes, making sure the base of the plant is just above the soil surface.
   • Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it around the base of the plant to ensure stability.
4. Watering:
   • Immediately after planting, provide adequate water to the newly planted pineapple plants. This helps settle the soil and promotes root establishment.
   • Subsequent irrigation should be carried out based on the specific water requirements of pineapples and the prevailing weather conditions.
5. Mulching:
   • Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the pineapple plants. This helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature.
   • Keep the mulch a few inches away from the plant’s stem to prevent rotting.
6. Fertilization:
   • Apply a balanced fertilizer or a specific pineapple fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.
   • Follow recommended fertilizer application rates and timing based on soil test results or general guidelines for pineapple cultivation.
7. Weed Control:
   • Regularly remove weeds around the pineapple plants to minimize competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight.
   • Hand-weeding or the use of appropriate herbicides can be employed to manage weed growth.
8. Plant Support (optional):
   • Depending on the variety and growth habit, some pineapple plants may benefit from support. This can be achieved by installing stakes or tying the leaves to prevent bending or breaking.

Crop Management On Pineapple

Fertilisation :

• • Apply farm yard manute before planting ( 10T/HA)
  • Nitrogen is the nutrient most used by pineapples. It can be applied at the rate of 50 kg per hectare as top dressing one month after planting.
  • Additional nitrogen, pottassium and phosphorus (NPK) can be applied later at the rate of 16: 4:12 grams per plant applied three to six months interval is recommended before maturity. An additional 23.5g/plant of nitrogen rich fertilizer ( urea 46-0-0) is applied from the 4th month after planting (1/3), 6 months after planting (1/3) and after 8 months after planting (1/3) ,
  • Potassium deficiency produces a poor quality fruit; few suckers and slips will be formed. Kcl is therefore applied at the rate of 13 gr per plant, after 6 months after planting.

Weed Control:

• From the beginning to the second harverst, the farm have to be clean and cleared,
• The farmers have to keep removing the weeds either in the space in the way in between the fruits,
•  Herbicides also can be used to remove the weeds such as Aminitriazol, paraquat, glyphosate, dalapan, Bromacil using between 2 kg and 5 kg per hectar. This can be purchased via online agrovet in Kenya.

Mulching

• Black polyethylene approximately 90 cm wide is used as mulch in most commercial pineapple plantations. As the mulch is rolled out on the planting bed, its edges are covered with soil. Planting holes are punched through the plastic with a trowel,
• Also, dry grasses or sawdust can be used as mulching materials,
• The mulch increases soil temperature in the root zone, helps to conserve soil moisture, promotes rooting by concentrating moisture in the root zone, and controls weeds.

Pests and Diseases of Pineapple

Pineapples rarely suffer from pests and diseases when good growth conditions have been cared for. The following diseases and pests occur especially in systems which lack diversification.

Pineapple Mealybug Wilt-associated closterovirus (PMWaV)

Symptoms:

• Infected plants become yellowish-red to bright red at the leaf tips, this coloration spreading down the leaf with time.
• Soon other leaves turn colour and also show signs of wilting.
• The inner heart leaves remain normal.
• Severely infected plants become stunted and produce small, under-grade and immature fruits.
• The first effect of the disease usually appears in the roots, which stop growing, collapse and then rot; this results in leaves symptoms similar to the effect of drought.
• The disease is probably introduced in planting material, which may not show obvious disease symptoms. Once established, it is spread by mealybugs, sedentary insects, which are moved from plant to plant by attendant ants.

Management:

• Use planting material from wilt-free areas.
• Heating pineapple crowns in a large water bath at 50°C for 30 minutes enables 100% plant survival and renders 100% of the plants free of pineapple wilt-associated virus.
• Growth of the heat-treated plants is more rapid than in non-heat-treated plants.
•  Plant resistant varieties if available. Some varieties of pineapple are more resistant to the virus than others, the variety Cayenne (and ‘Masmerah’) being highly susceptible. ‘Spanish’ shows some resistance.

Pineapple mealybug (Dysmicoccus brevipes)

Symptoms:

• The mealybugs are oval, pink in color, up to 3 mm long, covered with a whitish waxy secretion, which develops into waxy filaments around the body.
• This mealybug is the most serious pest of pineapples, because it is a vector of the Mealybug or Pineapple Wilt Virus.
• The mealybug is common on the roots of pineapple and large colonies develop on the stems just above ground level.
• The mealybugs may spread upwards to feed in the floral cavities, on both small and mature fruit, and on the crown leaves.
• Heavy infestations are conspicuous because of the white waxy adults, which often occur at the growing points, around the stem nodes, on the undersides of leaves, on the fruit and on the roots.

Management:

• Control ants to give a chance to natural enemies to keep mealybugs under control.
• See also what to do by pineapple wilt virus, specified above.

Yellow spot virus:

Symptoms:

• The yellow spot virus has been shown to be identical to the tomato spotted wilt virus.
• It infects over a 100 species of plants including peppers, tomato, tobacco, eggplant, potato, broad bean, spinach, chicory and peas.
• A number of wild plants, including some common weeds such as the black jack (Bidens pilosa) and Datura stramonium, are also host of this virus. Thrips are vectors of this virus.
• When host plants of the virus are grown near to pineapple plants, the incidence of the yellow spot virus is considerable enhanced due to thrips migrating into the pineapple field.
• Wind carries thrips long distances and thus also plays an important role in the transmission of the virus.
• Symptoms in the fruit is a blackened, dry cavity in the side of the fruit due to one or more “eyes” having died.
• Thrips feeding on the crown of fruits results in concentric ring patterns developing on crown leaves

Management:

• Control weeds in and around pineapple fields. This is very important for disease control because the presence of certain weeds leads to increased number of thrips.
• Cut off the fruits showing early symptoms of infection. This will prevent the spread of infections into the fruits.
• Where this disease is a problem avoid planting near host plants of the thrips and the virus.
• Even if thrips are not strongly inclined to migrate from their favored host plants, they will do so if disturbed, for instance by human passing, animals or machinery.
• Control thrips.

 Thrips (Thrips tabaci and Frankliniella schultzei)

Symptoms:

• The blossom thrips feeds mainly on flowers and its feeding results in the development of “dead-eye” in the fruit.
• Thrips feeding on the crown of fruits results in concentric ring patterns developing on crown leaves.

Management:

• Control weeds in and around pineapple as certain weeds leads to increased number of thrips.
• Remove heavily infested plant material.
• Control thrips in the early stages, in particular immature thrips; adult thrips are unable to pick the virus from infected plants.  Once the immature thrips are infected with the virus they remain vectors for the rest of their lives.
• Spray with insecticide (Lambda-Cyhalothrin,… (1ml/1L of water).
• Also a garlic bulb extract can be sprayed thoroughly on the whole plant, preferably early in the morning. Spraying should be particularly directed to the neck area of the plant for good penetration into the plant.

Pineapple top and root rot

symptoms :

• The leaf edges curve back and leaves are easily pulled out from the plant.
• Internally, the stem and leaf bases become soft, rotten and have an unpleasant smell.
• The growing point of the stem has a cheese-like appearance.
• It is common in young plants of 3-8 months.
• Splashing rain, irrigation water and biting insects act as agents to spread disease.

Management:

• Do not plant pineapples in soils prone to waterlogging.
• Ensure good drainage.
• Improve soil by selective fruit rotations and application of organic compost material.
• Avoid overhead irrigation.
• Control insect pests.
• Planting materials can be dipped in copper fungicides before planting or use resistant plants.
• Fungicides can be used to control any fungal complications.

Black rot of pineapple (Ceratocystis paradoxa)

Symptoms:

• White leaf spots are yellow to brown and several cm long.
•  Later they dry to become papery and straw colored.
• Black rot is a post-harvest disease occurring only on injured pineapple fruit.
• Only freshly cut or injured tissue is infected, and a soft black rot with dark colored mycelium develops.

Management:

• Use crop management practices that promote germination and rooting.
• In disease prone areas, if possible, plant varieties that are quick to germinate. Varieties that are slow to germinate should be treated in hot water (50°C for two hours).
• Avoid extremely wet or dry soil conditions.
• Do not plant freshly cut pineapples unless dried out
• To prevent the spread of the pathogen, avoid wounds to tissue and remove infected pineapple plants.
• Improve soil drainage and avoid planting during wet weather.

Harvesting Pineapple

• Pineapples should mature after 15-24 months depending on the planting material used.
• While harvesting it is best to cut, rather than to break the fruit by the stalk.
• With adequate management, the main crop should yield about 70 tonnes/ha, while ratoon crops yield on the average 50 tonnes/ha. At least two ratoon crops can be grown after the plant crop.

When the production is for export:

•  Harvest  them while they are not yet too much yellowish ( the yellow at ¼ of the whole fruit)
• They don’t have to weight more than1.5 kg because the buyer in Europe do like the ones with 1.3-1.5kg with small crown,

When the production is for processing  industrial supply:

• Harvest themwhen they are yellowish up to  ¼ of the whole fruit,
• They have to wiigh up to 1.8kg to 2.0kg,

When the production is for the local market:

• Harvest them when they are yellowish  up to ½ of the whole fruits,
• The weight depend to the clients need.

Post Harvest Management

• After harvesting pineapples, put them in water container to avoid the hotness they come with from the land
• Put in that water before you transport them either by air or other  transport means , if not refrigerate them,
• The water  have to be disinfected against the pests and other microbes ,
• The selection  of pineaples will depend on weights and quality
• The pesticides used for quality conservation are :
  • Dowicide A: 7 Grams per litter of water – sprayed to the pineapple to maintain its color and prevent any disease,
  • Wax: it contain polyethylene/paraffin compostion. This protects the pinaple against the loss of juice
• The pineaaples are kept to a temperature of 7 ^o C 12°C and 90-95% humidity.
• The Cayenne pineapple variety can be kept like that for 4 weeks.

FAQs On Pineapple Farming In Kenya

1. Q: What is the ideal climate for pineapple farming in Kenya? A: Pineapples thrive in warm tropical climates with temperatures between 20°C and 32°C. They require ample sunlight and moderate rainfall.
2. Q: Which soil type is suitable for pineapple farming? A: Pineapples prefer well-drained, loamy or sandy soils with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.5. Good soil structure and fertility are essential for optimal growth.
3. Q: How long does it take for pineapple plants to bear fruit? A: Pineapple plants typically start bearing fruit within 18 to 24 months after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
4. Q: What are the common pineapple varieties grown in Kenya? A: Popular pineapple varieties in Kenya include Smooth Cayenne, MD2 (Golden Pineapple), Queen, Pwani Hybrid, Smooth-Leaf Cayenne, and Red Spanish.
5. Q: How do I propagate pineapples? A: Pineapples can be propagated using suckers or crowns. Suckers are shoots growing at the base of the mother plant, while crowns are the leafy tops of harvested pineapples.
6. Q: How do I prepare the soil for pineapple planting? A: Land preparation involves clearing the site, plowing, harrowing, soil testing, amendment with organic matter, and forming raised beds or ridges.
7. Q: What is the recommended spacing for pineapple plants? A: Pineapple plants are usually spaced 60 to 90 centimeters apart, depending on the variety and planting system.
8. Q: How often should I irrigate pineapple plants? A: Pineapples require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Provide sufficient moisture to the plants, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
9. Q: Do pineapples require fertilization? A: Yes, pineapples benefit from balanced fertilization. Apply a suitable fertilizer or organic compost based on soil test recommendations or general guidelines for pineapple farming.
10. Q: How do I control weeds in a pineapple plantation? A: Regular weeding is necessary to prevent weed competition. Hand-weeding or the use of appropriate herbicides can be employed to manage weed growth.
11. Q: What pests commonly affect pineapple plants in Kenya? A: Common pests include mealybugs, aphids, mites, and nematodes. Regular scouting and implementing appropriate pest control measures are important.
12. Q: What diseases should I watch out for in pineapple farming? A: Pineapple diseases in Kenya include bacterial heart rot, fusarium wilt, root rot, and leaf spot diseases. Proper sanitation and preventive measures are crucial.
13. Q: Can pineapple farming be done organically? A: Yes, pineapple farming can be done using organic practices. Organic fertilizers, natural pest control methods, and soil management techniques can be adopted.
14. Q: How do I know when pineapples are ready for harvest? A: Pineapples are ready for harvest when the fruit is fully mature and develops a golden color. They should be firm to the touch and have a sweet aroma.
15. Q: How should pineapples be harvested? A: To harvest pineapples, twist or cut the fruit from the stem using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Leave a small portion of the stem attached to the fruit.
16. Q: Can I store harvested pineapples? A: Pineapples can be stored for a short period at room temperature, but for longer storage, it is recommended to keep them in a cool and dry place. It’s best to consume fresh pineapples as soon as possible to enjoy their optimal flavor and nutritional value.
17. Q: How do I handle post-harvest handling of pineapples? A: Proper post-harvest handling involves removing any dirt or debris from the fruit, sorting them based on size and quality, and packing them in appropriate containers. It’s important to handle the pineapples with care to prevent bruising or damage.
18. Q: Can pineapples be exported from Kenya? A: Yes, Kenya has a significant pineapple export market. Export-quality pineapples need to meet specific standards and requirements set by importing countries. It’s important to adhere to quality control measures and follow the necessary procedures for international trade.
19. Q: Are there any value-added products I can make from pineapples? A: Pineapples can be processed into various value-added products such as pineapple juice, dried pineapple slices, pineapple jam, and pineapple puree. These products can provide additional income streams and increase the marketability of the crop.
20. Q: What are the potential challenges in pineapple farming? A: Some common challenges include pest and disease management, fluctuating market prices, climate variability, and access to quality planting materials. It’s crucial to stay informed, seek advice from experts, and implement proper management practices to overcome these challenges.