Description

Canistel / Egg Fruit Seedlings

Discover the exotic allure of Canistel, also known as Egg Fruit (Pouteria campechiana), with Organic Farm’s premium seedlings. This tropical gem, with its creamy, custard-like yellow flesh reminiscent of a hard-boiled egg yolk, is rich in vitamins A, C, and niacin. Organically grown in Muranga, Kenya, our certified seedlings are perfect for farmers and gardeners eager to cultivate a unique, high-demand crop with excellent nutritional and commercial value.

Benefits of Canistel Farming

• Nutritional Powerhouse: High in beta-carotene, niacin, and fiber, supporting vision, immunity, and digestion.

• Versatile Uses: Enjoy fresh, in milkshakes, ice cream, custards, or baked goods like pies and pancakes.

• Market Opportunity: Rare in Kenya, its exotic appeal drives demand in local and export markets.

• Low Maintenance: Adaptable to various soils and climates, ideal for sustainable farming.

Favorable Climates for Canistel in Kenya

Canistel thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with temperatures of 20–32°C and moderate rainfall (1,000–2,000mm annually). It is frost-sensitive and prefers frost-free zones.

Suitable Regions in Kenya

• Coastal Kenya: Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale

• Central Kenya: Murang’a, Thika, Kiambu

• Western Kenya: Kisumu, Siaya, Busia

• Eastern Kenya: Machakos, Taita Taveta (lower altitudes)

Soil Requirements

• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy, loamy, or clay soils

• Soil pH: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Nutrients: Tolerates poor soils but benefits from organic matter

• Altitude: 0–1,500 meters above sea level for optimal growth

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Canistel

Site Preparation

• Select a sunny location with 6–8 hours of direct sunlight.

• Clear weeds and debris; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

• Incorporate organic compost to enhance soil fertility.

Hole Preparation

• Dig holes 60cm wide and deep (2 ft x 2 ft).

• Mix topsoil with well-rotted manure or compost (2:1 ratio).

Planting Seedlings

• Gently remove the seedling from the nursery bag, preserving roots.

• Place in the hole, ensuring the rootball is level with the soil surface.

• Backfill with soil mixture, press firmly, and water thoroughly.

Mulching

• Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch (e.g., wood chips or dry leaves) around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch clear of the trunk.

Caring for Canistel Trees

• Irrigation: Water weekly during dry seasons for the first 2–3 years; mature trees tolerate drought but benefit from occasional deep watering.

• Fertilization: Apply balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 10:10:10 NPK) every 3–4 months; supplement with compost annually.

• Pruning: Lightly prune in early years to establish a strong framework; remove dead or crowded branches annually to improve air circulation.

• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for aphids, fruit flies, and scale; use neem oil and integrated pest management (IPM) for eco-friendly control.

• Pollination: Insect-pollinated; no additional pollination is needed, but grafting ensures faster fruiting.

Plant Population and Spacing

• Spacing: 6–8m between trees (20–26 ft)

• Population: Approximately 70–100 trees per acre

Expected Production

• Per Tree: 45–90 kg of fruit annually at maturity (5–7 years).

• Per Acre: 3–9 tonnes per acre, depending on management practices.

• Fruiting Timeline: Seedlings fruit in 3–6 years; grafted trees in 2–3 years.

Why Choose Organic Farm’s Canistel Seedlings?

Organic Farm is committed to sustainable agriculture and farmer success in Kenya. Our Canistel seedlings offer:

• Certified Quality: Organically grown, well-hardened, and grafted for faster fruiting and disease resistance.

• Expert Support: Agronomic guidance from planting to harvest.

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Chemical-free cultivation to preserve soil and ecosystems.

• Nationwide Delivery: Reliable shipping across Kenya.

Start your Canistel farming journey with Organic Farm and capitalize on this rare, nutritious fruit’s growing popularity. Order your seedlings today to grow a crop that’s as delicious as it is profitable!

Contact: oxfarmorganic@gmail.com