Kenyan Coffee Farmers Urged To Adopt Best Practices During Dry Months – CoffeeTalk

Coffee agronomist John Chege has urged Kenyan coffee farmers to adopt best farming practices during the dry months of January and February. He highlighted practices like cycle renewing, correct pruning, soil testing, and foliar application as essential for increased cherry production throughout the year. Chege emphasized that incorrect practices can destroy bushes and affect productivity, leading to low prices at the coffee auction and less earnings for farmers.

After harvesting in October, November, and December, farmers should carry out pruning to increase production and reduce pests and diseases habitats. Timely pruning also allows sunlight penetration, which is crucial for flowering. Chege advises farmers to change the coffee cycle every five years by getting rid of old bushes to produce young, vibrant bushes that are more productive and resistant to pests and diseases.

During the dry months, farmers should carry out soil sampling to test the soil pH and determine the type and amount of nutrients available for their coffee plants. Testing the soil helps build soil health and improve crop resistance to pests and diseases. Farmers should alternate fertilizers when it is raining and apply foliar fertiliser during dry months to help in nutrient absorption.

Farmers should also use agricultural lime as a natural, low-cost way to improve the soil to combat the effects of regular chemical-based fertilisers.

Read More @ Kenya News