Kelvin Wairimu
The first step to profitability in watermelon farming is selecting the correct variety.
Unlike many crops, consumer taste and preference determine demand, influencing market prices. Different watermelon varieties have varying sugar levels and taste profiles.
These are the best watermelon varieties with high market demand, sweetness, high yield, and fast maturity.
1. Twix F1
This is a hybrid watermelon variety that produces light green watermelons with dark green stripes on the outside and dark red, crispy flesh inside.
Twix F1 has small seeds with a seed rate of 65 seeds per gram. This means you only need 100g per acre, which equals 4,500-5,000 plants per acre.
Compared to other varieties that require 500g at a cost of above Ksh 25,000, for Twix F1 you only need Ksh 8,000-10,000 – a cost reduction of over Ksh 10,000.
This Amaliz Seeds-owned watermelon variety is a game-changer in watermelon farming.
Under good management, Twix F1 can yield 10-12kg per fruit, 40-50 tons per acre, with a maturity period of 90 days. It’s one of the highest yielders in the Kenyan market.
2. Sukari F1
Sukari F1 is a famous hybrid watermelon variety with sweet fruits that have deep red, crispy, firm flesh. It’s ideal for long-distance transport due to its deep, thick rind.
With a maturity period of 80-90 days, Sukari F1 has a yield potential of 25 tons per acre with an average fruit weight of 7-8kg.
This Syova Seeds variety has a seed rate of 500g per acre.
3. Maridadi F1
It is an oval, oblong-shaped watermelon fruit with dark green stripes from Amiran Seeds.
This sweet, early-maturing variety has a yield potential of 30-35 tons with an average fruit weight of 8-10kg.
Maridadi F1 has a seed rate of 500g per acre, supporting 5,000-6,000 plants per acre.
Read Also:Can you Make 1 Million from Tomato Farming in a Single acre?
4. Julie F1
It is arguably the sweetest and crunchiest watermelon variety in Kenya from Simlaw Seeds. Julie F1 produces medium-sized, oval-shaped fruits with an average weight of 10-12kg. It’s a fast-maturing variety with a 65-75 day cycle.
Julie F1’s seed rate per acre is 500g with a plant population of 7,000-8,000.
Conclusion
Twix F1, Maridadi F1, Sukari F1, and Julie F1 are the best watermelon varieties to grow in Kenya, offering high demand and good yields.
For optimum yield, watch our watermelon guide from seeds to harvesting.
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