Pineapple Farming in Malindi, Kenya: How to Make Millions from Pineapples

Pineapple farming in Kenya is a particularly a very profitable agri-business. Kenya has the ideal conditions for growing pineapples. The coastal region of Kenya, particularly Malindi, is known for its ideal warm and wet climate and fertile soil, which are perfect for growing pineapples. Pineapple has a sweet and tangy taste that is refreshing and tropical, which is why many people love it. They are a delicious, versatile, and healthy fruit that is low in calories and fat and a good source of vitamins C and A.

Pineapple farming is a profitable business, and millions of shillings can be made from growing pineapples in Kenya. We will discuss the basics of pineapple farming in Malindi, including how to choose the right land, plant the pineapples, and care for the crop. We will also discuss the potential profits from pineapple farming and how to market your produce.

If you are interested in starting a pineapple farm, this space is for you. We will provide you with all the information you need to get started. We sell land in Malindi (view our listing here) if this interests you, go ahead and contact us or WhatsApp.

Reasons why pineapple farming is profitable in Malindi

• The warm and wet climate in Malindi is ideal for growing pineapples.
• The soil in Malindi is fertile and well-drained, which is what pineapples thrive in.
• There is a growing demand for pineapples in Kenya and around the world.
• The cost of production is relatively low.

Tips to consider starting a pineapple farm in Malindi

If you are considering starting a pineapple farm in Malindi, here are some of the things you need to do:

• Choose the right land with good soil. The land should be a well-drained area receiving an adequate rain minimum of 600 mm. Read here for more.
• Plant the pineapples at the right time of year. The best time to plant pineapples in Malindi is during the rainy season, April – June or October – December.
• Care for the crop properly. This includes weeding and pest control.
• Market your produce. There are many different ways to market pineapples, including selling them directly to Malindi or any other market, selling them to wholesalers, or exporting them.

Requirements for Pineapple Farming in Kenya

Temperature

Pineapple is a tropical crop that thrives in warm and humid climates. In Malindi, the ideal temperature range for pineapple farming is between 21-32 degrees Celsius, which is well-suited to the region’s coastal climate.

Rainfall

Pineapples require an average amount of rainfall, ideally between 600 and 1500 mm per year. In areas with lower rainfall, supplemental irrigation can be used to meet the water needs of the plants.

Soil

Well-drained and organically rich soils with a pH range of 5.5-6.5 are optimal for pineapple cultivation. Interestingly, pineapple plants in Malindi can also adapt to slightly acidic soils with pH levels as low as 4.5, which can even help reduce the risk of soilborne diseases.

The Best Places to Grow Pineapples in Kenya

The best place to grow pineapple in Kenya is the coastal region predominantly in areas like Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, and Taita Taveta. These regions provide the right climate and soil conditions for successful pineapple cultivation, attracting both local farmers and investors to engage in pineapple farming.

How to Actually Grow Juicy Pineapples at the Farm

Selecting the Best Variety

The key to profitable pineapple farming in Malindi starts with selecting the right variety. The “Smooth Cayenne” variety is the most common choice in Kenya due to its high yield and sweet taste, making it a preferred option for farmers in Malindi as well.

Land Preparation

Preparing the land for pineapple farming involves clearing the area, ploughing the soil, and incorporating organic matter. Farmers are encouraged to conduct a soil test at this stage to identify any necessary adjustments to soil components.

Transplanting Pineapple Seedlings

Pineapple plants are propagated using slips/suckers, which are shoots cut from the stem of mature pineapple plants. In Malindi, farmers can obtain these suckers from other farmers or from other renowned seedlings propagators.

Pineapple Spacing for Optimal Plant Growth

To optimise growth and yield, pineapple suckers should be planted using two different schemes: single and double rows. The single-row scheme involves spacing the plants 30 cm apart within the row and leaving 100 cm between rows. This arrangement allows for approximately 14,520 plants per acre.

However, the preferred method is the double row scheme, where the spacing is 100 cm between the double rows, 60 cm between the plants within each row, and 30 cm between neighbouring plants. This configuration results in approximately 17,424 plants per acre. The advantage of planting pineapples close together with a spacing of 30 cm or less along the row is that individual plants require very little space. When the plants bear fruit, the proximity to their neighbours provides support and prevents the fruits from toppling over.

To achieve healthy plants and produce large, high-quality fruits, regular weeding, fertilisation, and irrigation (if need be) are essential, regardless of the chosen planting scheme. By following these spacing guidelines, one can make the most of an acre, accommodating a considerable number of pineapple plants for optimal yield.

Pests and Diseases Affecting Pineapples

Pineapples are relatively hardy plants, but they can still be affected by certain pests and diseases. Common pests like scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids can damage plants by feeding on their sap. Proper monitoring and organic pest control methods, such as using a solution of water and dish soap or insecticidal soap, can help manage these pests effectively.

The pineapple weevil is another pest that affects pineapples, causing fruit rot and wilting of leaves. Specific pesticides targeting weevils can be used for control. Regarding diseases, pineapple plants may face issues like leaf spot, fruit rot, and mosaic virus. Proper sanitation and avoiding overcrowding can help manage fruit rot. For leaf spot, using fungicides designed to target the disease can be beneficial.

Maturity and Harvesting

In Malindi, pineapple plants typically take 18 to 24 months to mature and become ready for harvest. Farmers can determine the fruit’s maturity by its uniform golden-yellow colour and deep green leaves on the crown. Pineapples should be harvested when fully ripe, as indicated by easily detachable leaves at the fruit’s base. Careful harvesting using sharp knives ensures that a small portion of the crown remains attached to the fruit. After fruiting, the mother plant dies, but new plants can be propagated using slips, suckers, or crowns from the original plant.

Why Pineapple Farming in Malindi is Lucrative

The demand for pineapples is soaring, both locally and internationally, with a thriving market in urban areas and increasing exports to countries like the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany. Malindi’s coastal region offers ideal climate and soil conditions for pineapple cultivation, ensuring robust growth and high-quality fruit production. The pineapple processing industry adds value and opens up higher-value markets for farmers. Moreover, pineapple farming contributes to the local and national economy by creating employment opportunities, improving livelihoods, and driving economic growth.

How many pineapples grow in an acre?

Pineapple farming in Malindi proves to be a profitable venture, offering higher returns compared to other crops like maize and beans. The cost of planting and maintaining an acre of pineapple farm ranges from KES 100,000 to KES 150,000. To optimise growth and yield, pineapple suckers should be planted using two different schemes: single and double rows. The single-row scheme involves spacing the pineapples 30 cm apart within the row and leaving 100 cm between rows. This arrangement allows for approximately 14,520 plants per acre. The double-row scheme is the preferred method for planting pineapples. It involves spacing the plants 100 cm apart between the double rows, 60 cm apart within each row, and 30 cm apart between neighbouring plants. This configuration results in approximately 17,424 plants per acre. However, the actual yield will vary depending on a number of factors, including the variety of pineapple, the climate, the soil quality, and the care that is given to the plants. With proper care, you can expect a guaranteed yield of around 15,000 pineapples per acre.

The advantage of planting pineapples close together with a spacing of 30 cm or less along the row is that individual plants require very little space. When the plants bear fruit, the proximity to their neighbours provides support and prevents the fruits from toppling over. The cost of planting and maintaining an acre of pineapple farm ranges from KES 100,000 to 150,000.

How Profitability of Pineapple Farming in Malindi

With a yield of approximately 17,424 pineapple plants per acre using the preferred double row scheme and a selling price of KES 50-60 per fruit, farmers can expect a gross income of KES 871,200 – KES 1,045,440 per acre, with a profit margin of KES 771,200 – KES 895,440 per acre.

Harvesting is usually done twice a year. During the off-season, you can sell Pineapple suckers to other farmers which retail at KES 7 – KES 10 each. Therefore, selling the suckers from a one-acre plantation will earn you at least KES 121,968 on the lower side. Harvesting is usually done twice a year. During the off-season, you can sell Pineapple suckers to other farmers which retail at KES 7 – KES 10 each. Therefore, selling the suckers from a one-acre plantation will earn you at least KES 121,968 on the lower side.

Takeaway

Pineapple farming in Malindi, Kenya, is an excellent opportunity for agricultural growth and economic prosperity. The region’s favourable ecological conditions and the increasing market demand for pineapples make this agribusiness venture highly attractive for both aspiring farmers and seasoned investors. By implementing proper cultivation practices and adopting organic pest and disease management techniques, farmers can harness the full potential of pineapple farming and enjoy the financial rewards it offers.

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FAQ

How many months does it take pineapple to produce?

Pineapple plants typically take 18 to 24 months to mature and become ready for harvest.

How many pineapples go in an acre?

Using the double row scheme with a spacing of 100 cm between double rows, 60 cm within each row, and 30 cm between neighbouring plants, approximately 17,424 pineapple plants can be accommodated per acre.

How many years will a pineapple plant produce?

A pineapple plant usually produces fruit for several years. After the initial harvest, new plants can be propagated from slips, suckers, or crowns from the original plant.

Is pineapple farming profitable in Kenya?

Yes, pineapple farming can be profitable in Kenya, especially in regions with favourable climate and soil conditions like the coastal areas. With proper cultivation practices, pineapple farming can yield attractive returns due to increasing market demand both locally and internationally. The pineapple processing industry and various market channels contribute to the overall profitability of the venture.