Maize Farming in Kenya:How to Grow Maize for High Yields

Maize is the staple food for Kenyans, yet it is underproduced. Most farmers rely on traditional planting methods, which often result in poor yields. This article provides guidance on how to successfully grow maize from planting to harvesting in order to achieve high yields.

Best Soil for Maize Farming

Maize thrives in fertile loam or sandy loam soils. Supplementing these soils with cow or sheep manure can enhance growth, and when it rains, this mixture retains moisture, further promoting growth. Conversely, clay soil has poor drainage and can lead to flooding, which stunts growth and results in lower yields.

Best Maize Varieties to Plant in Kenya

The suitability of maize varieties varies by region. In the North Rift region, where there is only one maize season, five-month maize varieties are optimal.

These varieties have high yields, producing over 50 90kg bags per acre. Some recommended varieties include Pioneer 3253, Pioneer 30G19, H614, H628, and H629. It is crucial to plant these during the long rains season for the best results.

In regions with two maize seasons, farmers should opt for three-month maturity maize varieties. These fast-maturing varieties, such as Haraka 101, Haraka 301, Sc Duma 43, Sc Sungura 301, DKC-8031, DK 8033, and Tsavo WE4141, typically yield an average of 25 to 35 90kg bags per acre and mature within 75 to 90 days.

How to Plant Maize in Kenya

Before planting, ensure the land is clear of weeds. Farmers can either weed manually or use non-selective herbicides like Kausha or Roundup.

A recommended planting spacing of 60 cm by 30 cm, compared to the traditional 90 cm by 25 cm, increases crop population per acre, requiring a seed rate of 11 to 12 kg. If using a maize planter, calibrate it first for precise spacing.

Best Fertilizers for Maize Farming

Yields per acre are influenced not only by the maize variety but also by proper fertilization. High crop populations require adequate feeding.

Top-dress with Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP 18.46.0) on the 10th day after sowing to promote faster growth. At this stage, the maize plants have developed strong roots that can absorb nitrogen and phosphorus effectively.

Using fertilizers during Planting is not effective, as the seeds do not utilize them, leading to leaching. DAP is preferred over NPK 23.23.0 due to its high phosphorus content, which supports rapid root growth. NPK 23.23.0 should be top-dressed on the 30th day after sowing, while CAN fertilizer should be applied 55 days after sowing to enhance seed formation and weight gain.

How to Control Pests

The Fall Armyworm (FAW) is a significant pest in maize farming, responsible for more than 50% of crop loss. To control FAW, apply Emmaron 30SC or Escort, ideally 21 and 40 days later.

This should be combined with a sticker such as Integra or Aquawet and a booster or foliar feed. The application is most effective when done in the late evening when the fall armyworm is most active.

Check out Improved Farming Methods

Weed Management

Keeping the farm free of weeds at all times is essential. Farmers can choose between manual weeding or using selective herbicides such as TingaTinga, Governor, Maguguma, Di-Amine, or 2-4D 72SL.

Implementing zero-tillage can help conserve moisture, thereby promoting faster growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many bags of maize can one harvest per acre?

Depending on the variety, yields can range from 25 to 55 bags per acre.

2. What is the best fertilizer for maize farming?

DAP, NPK 23.23.0, and CAN fertilizers applied on the 10th, 30th, and 55th days after sowing are the best options.

3. What is the current price of a sack of maize in Kenya?

The price of a 90kg sack of maize in Kenya currently ranges between Ksh 2,500 and Ksh 3,500.

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