Apricot Farming in Kenya: A Hidden Gem with Big Potential

Few farmers in Kenya think of apricots when planning their orchards. Yet this golden fruit, common in parts of Asia and North Africa, grows surprisingly well in Kenya’s highland climate. It is sweet, aromatic, and rich in vitamins A and C.

With increasing demand from hotels, supermarkets, and fruit processors, apricot farming is beginning to draw quiet attention among small- and medium-scale growers.

Why Apricots Deserve a Place on Kenyan Farms

Apricots (Prunus armeniaca) belong to the same family as peaches and plums. They are loved for their smooth texture and slightly tart flavor. In Kenya, the few farmers who have tried them report encouraging results. A single tree can yield up to 50 kilograms of fruit per season once mature, and a kilogram of fresh apricots sells for 250 to 400 shillings in local markets.

Beyond the fresh fruit market, apricots offer opportunities in processing. Dried apricots, a popular health snack, fetch over 1,200 shillings per kilogram, while jam and juice producers are constantly looking for a reliable local supply. Most of what is currently sold in supermarkets is imported from South Africa or the Middle East. That gap presents a chance for farmers willing to pioneer.

Suitable Growing Conditions

Apricots prefer mild climates with warm days and cool nights. They perform best in temperatures between 10 and 27 degrees Celsius and require a short period of cool weather to trigger flowering. This makes areas such as Nyeri, Nakuru, Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, and parts of Meru or Baringo suitable for production.

The trees need well-drained loamy soils rich in organic matter. Heavy clay or waterlogged soils should be avoided. A slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal. Before planting, prepare the field with generous amounts of compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility.

Seedlings and Planting

Farmers are advised to buy grafted seedlings rather than planting from seed. Grafting ensures better yield and resilience against diseases and drought. Seedlings are available from certified nurseries at 250 to 400 shillings each.

Planting is best done at the start of the long rains. Dig holes measuring 60 by 60 by 60 centimeters and mix topsoil with manure and a handful of DAP fertilizer. Space trees four to five meters apart in both directions. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base to conserve moisture.

With proper care, grafted apricots start bearing fruit in the third year. Full production is reached by the fifth year, when trees can yield between 30 and 50 kilograms each.

Managing Growth and Nutrition

Young apricot trees need regular watering to establish strong roots. Once mature, they tolerate short dry periods, but consistent moisture is still important during flowering and fruit development. Irrigation once every five to seven days is enough in dry conditions.

Apply nitrogen fertilizer in small amounts every few months to encourage healthy leaf growth. During fruiting, switch to a balanced NPK fertilizer to support fruit formation. An annual application of compost or manure helps maintain soil health and moisture retention.

Pruning and Pollination

Apricots respond well to pruning. Shaping the tree in an open-center pattern allows sunlight to penetrate evenly and reduces disease. Remove dry or crossing branches each year after harvest.

Most apricot varieties are self-pollinating, but planting more than one variety in the same orchard can increase yields. Bees play a vital role in pollination, so avoid using harmful chemicals during flowering.

Pests and Diseases

Common problems include aphids, fruit flies, and fungal infections such as powdery mildew and brown rot. Regular inspection is the best prevention. Prune for good air circulation, collect and destroy fallen fruits, and apply organic or approved biopesticides when necessary.

Fruit flies can cause serious damage near harvest time. Hanging pheromone traps or using protein bait sprays helps reduce their numbers.

Harvesting and Handling

Apricots are ready to harvest when the skin turns deep golden and the fruit begins to soften slightly. Pick by hand or with pruning shears to avoid bruising. Harvesting too early results in poor flavor, while overripe fruits are difficult to transport.

Yields vary depending on variety and management, but a well-tended acre can produce several tonnes once the trees mature. After picking, fruits should be packed in shallow crates lined with paper and kept in a cool, shaded area. Apricots are delicate, so gentle handling is essential to maintain quality.

Market and Income Opportunities

Demand for apricots in Kenya is rising, particularly in towns and tourist areas. Hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets prefer a steady supply of uniform fruits. There is also a growing niche market for dried fruit and homemade jams, where farmers can earn much higher margins through value addition.

A farmer producing both fresh and dried fruit can easily double their profit by targeting both segments. With simple solar dryers and packaging, even small-scale growers can process their surplus. Partnerships with small processors or cooperatives can help farmers access bigger markets.

Challenges and What to Expect

The main challenge is that apricot farming is still new in most parts of Kenya. Few nurseries stock seedlings, and technical knowledge remains limited. Farmers must seek advice from horticultural experts or county agriculture offices before planting.

Apricots also require patience. Unlike vegetables, they take several years before returning significant profits. However, once established, they remain productive for more than a decade, offering long-term income with minimal replanting costs.

Conclusion

Apricots may not be as common as avocados or mangoes, but they have the potential to become one of Kenya’s next high-value fruits. They grow well in the right climate, require moderate care, and fit easily into diversified orchards. For farmers willing to try something different and plan for the long term, apricots present a promising opportunity.