Dragon fruit farming is gaining prominence in Kenya due to the high returns involved and less maintenance cost.
Currently, the market price of dragon fruit is Ksh800 per kilogram in uptown supermarkets, making it among the highest-priced fruits in the country.
A huge chunk of dragon fruits consumed by the elites in the country is imported from Vietnam, the largest producer in the world so far.
However, the ones grown in Kenyan farms barely make it to the shelves due to high export demand. But even as more farmers continue to embrace dragon fruit farming, its price is expected to drop in the long run.
Agricultural experts, however, opine that even if the price drops to Ksh400 per kilogram, farmers would still earn up to Ksh10 million per acre yearly.
The earnings will also depend on several factors, including proper care, conducive market regimes and a ready export market for dragon fruit farmers.
Nutritional Value of Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit can be consumed as a whole. They can also be used as cake toppings, salads and in making beverages.
Kenya's most expensive fruit is also used in bakeries, confectionery, sauce, and jams.
Dragon fruits can be used in processed products such as jelly, juice, fruit bars, yoghurt, pulp, pastries and marmalade preserves.
Health experts hold that dragon fruit contains high levels of vitamin C, minerals such as potassium, magnesium, or iron, which are important for good health.
It also contains fibre, essential in helping the body absorb nutrients and reducing the chances of constipation.
Its Maintenance after planting
The crop gained popularity in Kenya due to its adaptive nature to survive in harsh conditions. Dragon fruit is ideal for subsistence farming where the soil is less fertile and therefore requires little care once established.
The fruits grows fast, reaching their full height of 2-3 meters within three years.
They also have spines on their leaves which protect them from predators. They are also drought-resistant, meaning farmers do not need to worry about excess watering.
It takes almost two months after the planting date to mature, allowing farmers to start harvesting.
Market Demand
Dragon fruit has a large market base in most parts of the country. Europe, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and France provide the best opportunities for dragon fruit growers.
Other markets where farmers sell dragon fruits include China, Japan, Malaysia, and the United States. Its demand peaks during special holidays, including Christmas, Ramadhan and Easter.
August and September are the peak months for most dragon fruits, and the main season runs during the summer months.
