Best 6-month Maize Varieties to Plant in Kenya in April 2025

Are you a maize farmer in Rift Valley or Western Kenya, where two rainy seasons provide ideal conditions for late-maturing maize varieties? If so, you should consider these high-yielding maize varieties that take 5-7 months to mature but offer exceptional yields of over 40 bags per acre.

These maize varieties are:

• High-yielding (up to 56 bags per acre)
• Ideal for highland areas with reliable rainfall
• Excellent for large-scale farming
• Best suited for fodder due to tall growth

Below are the best late-maturing maize varieties to plant in Kenya in April 2025 for maximum returns.

1. H6218 – The Highest-Yielding Maize Variety in Kenya

• Maturity: 175-210 days
• Yield Potential: 56 bags per acre
• Best for: Highland areas with consistent rainfall

Special Features:

• Tall growth, making it excellent for silage
• Best suited for large-scale farming

H6218 is Kenya’s highest-yielding maize variety, ideal for farmers who prioritize quantity and long-term returns.

2. H6213 – Best for Heavy Grains & Fodder

• Maturity: 160-180 days
• Yield Potential: 52 bags per acre
• Best for: High-altitude regions

Special Features:

• Tall maize variety, perfect for fodder
• Produces large, heavy grains

H6213 is a well-known high-yield variety among dairy and commercial maize farmers, thanks to its strong stalks and excellent grain quality.

3. H629 – High Yield & Disease Resistance

• Maturity: 160-190 days
• Yield Potential: 48 bags per acre
• Best for: Highland farms with reliable rainfall

Special Features:

• Excellent disease resistance
• Strong tolerance to varying weather conditions

H629 is a top-performing maize variety, offering high yields while maintaining resistance to common maize diseases.

Read Also: Best Fast-Maturing Maize Varieties to Plant in Kenya (April 2025)

4. H628 – Best for High-Altitude Farming

Maturity: 150-180 days
Yield Potential: 46 bags per acre
Best for: Farmers in highland areas

Special Features:

• Produces strong, well-filled cobs
• High adaptability to different soil types

H628 is ideal for farmers looking for a balance between fast maturity and high yields, making it a popular choice in the Rift Valley.

5. H614 – The Most Popular Large-Scale Maize Variety

• Maturity: 160-180 days
• Yield Potential: 38 bags per acre
• Best for: Large-scale commercial farming

Special Features:

• Heavy grains, increasing market value
• Strong stalks that withstand harsh weather conditions

H614 remains one of Kenya’s most widely grown maize varieties, especially among large-scale farmers who prioritize grain quality and market demand.

Final Thoughts: Which Late-Maturing Maize Variety is Best for You?

If you’re planning to plant maize in April 2025, here’s a quick recommendation guide based on your needs:

For the highest yield: H6218 (56 bags per acre)
For fodder and silage: H6213 (tall maize variety with heavy grains)
For disease resistance: H629 (strong tolerance to common maize diseases)
For high-altitude farming: H628 (thrives in cold and wet conditions)
For large-scale production: H614 (most popular commercial variety)

Choosing the right maize variety based on your location, climate, and farming goals will maximize your profits and ensure a successful harvest.

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