How much space is required to grow kale in Kenya?
Growing kale in Kenya can be a great way to have a steady supply of this nutritious leafy green. But before you start planting, it’s important to know how much space you’ll need for your kale garden. In this article, I’ll be discussing the space requirements for growing kale in Kenya, and how to make the most of the space you have.
Contents
Space Requirements for Kale
Kale is a relatively compact plant, and it doesn’t require a lot of space to grow. Each kale plant will need about 20-30cm (8-12 inches) of space between them. This allows enough room for the plant to grow and ensures that the leaves don’t touch. If the leaves touch, they can become damp and attract pests and diseases.
When it comes to the width of the row, it’s recommended to have a row width of 60-90cm (24-36 inches). This will give enough space for the plants to grow and for you to walk in between the rows for harvesting, weeding, and maintenance.
Making the Most of Your Space
If you have limited space, there are a few ways to make the most of it when growing kale. One way is to use raised beds or container gardening. This is an excellent way to maximize space and to make sure that the soil is rich in nutrients.
Another way to make the most of your space is to use a trellis or a support system. Kale plants can grow quite tall, and they can get top-heavy. By using a trellis or a support system, you can keep the plants upright, which will also make harvesting easier.
In Kenya, Kale is mainly grown in the highlands, which are located in the central, western, and parts of eastern regions of the country. These regions have a cool climate, and the soil is rich in nutrients, which is ideal for growing kale. Examples of these regions include the Mount Kenya region, the Aberdares, and the Elgeyo Marakwet.
In these regions, farmers usually plant kale in small plots. They use organic methods of farming, and they practice crop rotation to maintain soil fertility. They also use raised beds or container gardening to maximize the use of their space. In most cases, farmers plant kale in a 4-foot square area, this is enough space to grow a few kale plants.
In Conclusion
Growing kale in Kenya doesn’t require a lot of space. Each kale plant will need about 20-30cm (8-12 inches) of space between them, and a row width of 60-90cm (24-36 inches) is recommended. If you have limited space, you can use raised beds or container gardening, or a trellis or support system to make the most of the space you have. With a little bit of planning and some creativity, you can have a bountiful harvest of this nutritious leafy green, even with a small garden.