sales@fauluirrigation.co.ke

0717120401

Utawala Nairobi.

How to Choose the Best Irrigation Systems in Kenya

At Faulu Irrigation LTD, we design and install irrigation systems for both small scale and large scale productions.

Unpredicted rainfall often affects agriculture in Kenya by delaying planting. Most farmers have opted to irrigation as a reliable option for crop farming when rains fail. There are wide range of irrigation systems available in kenya. The most popular ones include drip irrigation, sprinkler, rain hose and furrow irrigation method.

Cost of Irrigation Systems in Kenya

  • Drip irrigation: KES 130,000–180,000
  • Sprinkler irrigation: KES 80,000–250,000
  • Rain hose irrigation: KES 120,000–200,000

Types of Irrigation Systems

Drip Irrigation System

Drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation and improving fertilizer uptake. It is ideal for tomatoes, onions, strawberries, cucumbers, capsicum, and fruit trees.

Sprinkler Irrigation

Sprinklers simulate rainfall and suit pasture, potatoes, vegetables, maize, and lawns. They work well on uneven terrain but generally use more water than drip systems.

Rain Hose Irrigation

Rain hose systems are affordable and suitable for leafy vegetables, fodder, and small-scale farms.

What to Consider when Buying Irrigation Accessories

Crops to irrigate – start by thinking on the crop you want to water. Learn the water requirements and match it to the irrigation method will work efficiently.
Soil type – water retention and compactness of soil decides which method to use. For sandy soils you may need to use Rain Guns as they deliver high flow rates.
Size of the farm – when sizing an irrigation system, the size of your farm matter. For large farms it is advisable to use high pressure rain gun sprinklers to save on cost and time.
Water Source – where you are sourcing irrigation water and whether it is reliable also matters.
Budget – the cost will determine which irrigation alternative would be a good option to use.

Crops Grown Under Irrigation in Kenya

  • Vegetables – Spinach, kales, cabbage, broccoli, managu, lettuce, aragula.
  • Fruits – Avocados, mango, paw paw, citrus, watermelon and pixie oranges.
  • Onions, galics, tomato, capsicum and strawberries.
  • Herbs – mint, basil, cilantro, oregano and many others.
  • Cash Crops – Sugarcane, tea, cotton, sunflower and coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is the best irrigation system in Kenya?

    It all depends on the type of crop to be irrigated.

2. How much does drip irrigation cost in Kenya?

    KES 130,000 – KES 180,000 per acre.

3. Which crops perform best under irrigation?

   Many crops including vegetables, fruits, flowers, fodder crops, maize, rice and sugarcane.

4. Is sprinkler irrigation suitable for vegetables?

   Many crops including vegetables, fruits, flowers, fodder crops, maize, rice and sugarcane.