Description

White Sapote Seedlings

Discover the exotic potential of white sapote farming with Organic Farm’s certified white sapote seedlings (Casimiroa edulis), featuring varieties like White Casimiroa and CAS 7-1. Known for their creamy, custard-like flesh with a sweet, tropical flavor blending banana, peach, and vanilla, these fruits are a rare delicacy in Kenya. Organically propagated from seeds in Muranga, Kenya, our KEPHIS-certified seedlings are selected for vigor and adaptability, ideal for farmers in regions like Mombasa, Kisumu, and Machakos seeking a high-value, low-maintenance crop.

Benefits of White Sapote Farming

• Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, C, B, potassium, and calcium, white sapote supports immunity, digestion, and heart health, appealing to niche health-focused markets.

• Versatile Uses: Enjoy fresh, in smoothies, desserts, or drinks; ideal for local markets (e.g., Muthurwa, Marikiti) and export to the U.S., Australia, and Central America.

• High Profitability: Yields 5–10 tonnes per acre, generating significant income due to rarity and growing demand in local and export markets.

• Resilience: Drought-tolerant, adaptable to arid regions, and productive for 20–30 years, making it suitable for diverse Kenyan climates.

Favorable Climates for White Sapote in Kenya

White sapote thrives in subtropical to tropical climates with temperatures of 18–28°C, rainfall of 800–1,200mm, and altitudes of 0–2,000m. Mature trees tolerate light frost (-6°C) and arid conditions with irrigation.

Suitable Regions in Kenya

• Coastal Kenya: Mombasa, Kilifi, Malindi, Lamu

• Western Kenya: Kisumu, Bungoma, Kakamega

• Eastern Kenya: Machakos, Makueni, Kitui

• Central Kenya: Nyeri, Embu, Meru

• Rift Valley: Eldoret (lower altitudes)

Soil Requirements

• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy loam or loamy soils; tolerates clay with good drainage.

• Soil pH: 5.6–7.8 (slightly acidic to neutral); test and amend with lime if needed.

• Nutrients: Enrich with organic matter like compost or manure.

• Drainage: Critical to prevent root rot; avoid waterlogged areas.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting White Sapote

Site Preparation

• Choose a sunny site with 6–8 hours of sunlight and protection from strong winds to support the tree’s wide canopy.

• Clear weeds, rocks, and debris; plow to loosen soil and incorporate well-decomposed manure.

• Test soil pH and ensure proper drainage.

Hole Preparation

• Dig holes 60cm x 60cm x 60cm (2 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft), spaced 5m x 5m (175 trees per acre) to accommodate canopy growth.

• Mix topsoil with 20kg well-decomposed manure and 200g DAP fertilizer.

Planting Seedlings

• Use KEPHIS-certified non-grafted seedlings from Organic Farm, propagated from fresh seeds (planted within 3 weeks of harvest) for genetic diversity and adaptability.

• Plant in early rainy seasons (March–May or October–November), placing the root collar at soil level; backfill, firm gently, and water thoroughly.

• Soak roots in water for 2–3 hours before planting to reduce transplant shock.

Mulching

• Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch (e.g., straw, wood chips) to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, keeping mulch 5cm from the trunk.

Caring for White Sapote Trees

• Irrigation: Water young trees every 5–7 days (20–30 liters weekly) during dry periods; mature trees are drought-tolerant but benefit from irrigation during fruiting. Use drip irrigation in arid regions like Kitui.

• Fertilization: Apply balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) fertilizer annually, similar to citrus regimes; supplement with organic compost. Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.

• Pruning: Prune during dormancy to maintain a balanced shape, improve air circulation, and remove dead or diseased branches. Cut back young trees to 90cm at planting to encourage low branching.

• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for fruit flies, aphids, scale insects, and diseases like powdery mildew or root rot; use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or fungicides like RANSOM 600WP. Keep weeds away to deter snails.

Plant Population and Spacing

• Spacing: 5m x 5m (16 ft x 16 ft) to allow canopy growth.

• Population: 175 trees per acre, optimizing yield and airflow.

Expected Production

• Per Tree: 20–50 kg of fruit annually at maturity (7–8 years for seed-propagated trees).

• Per Acre: 5–10 tonnes, generating significant income depending on local and export market prices.

• Fruiting Timeline: Begins 3–4 years after planting with air layering, 7–8 years for seedlings; harvest in spring to summer (March–August) when fruits turn yellow-green and soften.

Why Choose Organic Farm’s White Sapote Seedlings?

Organic Farm is a trusted leader in sustainable agriculture in Kenya, empowering farmers with quality inputs. Our white sapote seedlings offer:

• KEPHIS-Certified Quality: Propagated from seeds of select varieties (White Casimiroa, CAS 7-1) for high yields, flavor, and adaptability, certified by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service.

• Superior Varieties:

  • White Casimiroa: White flesh, mild, sweet lemon-peach flavor, ideal for fresh markets.

  • CAS 7-1: Sweet, aromatic, suited for culinary uses and export.

• Expert Support: Agronomic guidance on planting, pest control, and market linkages for local (Muthurwa, Marikiti) and export markets (U.S., Australia, Central America).

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Organic propagation supports soil health and biodiversity, aligned with good agricultural practices (GAP).

• Nationwide Delivery: Reliable shipping across Kenya (e.g., Mombasa, Kisumu, Machakos) and East Africa.

Join Kenya’s emerging white sapote industry, driven by rising demand for exotic, nutritious fruits, with Organic Farm’s certified seedlings. Order now to establish a resilient orchard that delivers creamy, profitable harvests for decades!

Contact: oxfarmorganic@gmail.com