African Horned Cucumber, alternatively known as thorned melons, has been gaining popularity in Kenya.
The fruit is popularly known in Kenya as 'passion mwitu' due to its tasteless nature and mottled skin with many thorny protrusions.
Despite lacking flavour, many farmers are increasingly growing it due to its high demand from customers who are seeking it because of countless health benefits.
The fruit has huge returns because it is highly adaptive to any climate and can produce optimally in hot, warm and semi-arid areas as well as high-altitude places.
Most Kenyans buy the fruit as a salad or a drink which is sold at Ksh20 per glass which is a good return to the farmer considering that production costs are minimal.
Those buying the whole fruit, can use it as a salad dresser or blend it and add to ice creams and yoghurt to enhance its taste.
Health-conscious Kenyans love it because it is good for hydration since it contains 88 per cent water and also contains carbs and electrolytes which help in keeping the body hydrated.
The fruit also helps people who have indigestion due to its fibre content which prevents constipation and bloating.
Passion Mwitu is also rich in zinc and calcium which are necessary for the growth of healthy and strong bones.
Thorned melons have also been found to be low in cholesterol which is recommended in keeping the heart healthy.
Unlike many fruits which need farm space, passion mwitu can grow well in fences and it also does not need inorganic fertilizers with most farmers opting to use organic manure which is readily available.
If your soil is poor, you can use DAP fertiliser while planting and top dress with nitrogenous and potassic fertilizers.
The fruit also guarantees quick returns to farmers as it matures within four months and unlike most fruits, which take up to six months.