The Kenyan Farmer’s Manual for Grafted Tamarillo (Tree Tomato) Cultivation

Tree tomato, commonly known as tamarillo, is a subtropical fruit gaining popularity in Kenya for its tangy flavor, nutritional value, and high market demand. Grafted tree tomatoes, particularly those grafted with the indigenous muthakwa (bug weed) rootstock, offer superior traits like nematode resistance, drought tolerance, faster maturity, and a longer lifespan. This manual, brought to you by Seedfarm, provides a step-by-step guide to cultivating grafted tree tomatoes for smallholder and commercial farmers in Kenya, ensuring high yields and profitability.

Why Grafted Tree Tomatoes?

• High Demand: Tree tomatoes fetch KSh 80–150 per kg in local markets (e.g., Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu) and up to KSh 200 per kg for export-quality fruits. Demand is strong in juicing and fresh fruit markets.
• Profitability: An acre can yield 20,000–40,000 kg annually, generating KSh 1.6–3.2 million at KSh 80 per kg.
• Fast Maturity: Grafted varieties, like Red Oratia on muthakwa, mature in 8–11 months compared to 18–24 months for non-grafted trees.
• Long Lifespan: Grafted trees last 10–15 years, compared to 5–7 years for non-grafted ones.
• Resilience: Muthakwa rootstock enhances resistance to nematodes, drought, and poor soils, making it ideal for diverse Kenyan regions.

Suitable Regions in Kenya

Tree tomatoes thrive in:

• Central Kenya: Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Embu, Meru.
• Western Kenya: Kakamega, Kisii, Migori.
• Rift Valley: Kericho, Bomet, Nakuru.
• Nyanza: Homa Bay, Siaya, Rongo.
• Eastern Kenya: Parts of Machakos.
• Coastal Areas: Taita Taveta (with irrigation).

Conditions: Altitudes of 1,500–3,000 m, temperatures of 15–25°C, rainfall of 600–4,000 mm annually, and well-drained soils with a pH of 5.0–8.5. Areas suitable for citrus are ideal for tree tomatoes.

Step-by-Step Farming Guide

1. Land Preparation

• Clearing: Remove weeds, stumps, and debris. Plow 2–3 times to a depth of 30–45 cm for a fine tilth and improved drainage.
• Soil Testing: Test for pH (optimal: 5.0–7.5) and nutrient levels. Contact Seedfarm.co.ke for soil testing services.
• Cost Estimate: KSh 20,000–50,000 per acre, depending on land condition and labor rates.

2. Seedling Selection

• Grafted Seedlings: Use certified grafted seedlings (e.g., Red Oratia on muthakwa rootstock) for pest resistance, faster maturity, and higher yields. Avoid non-grafted seedlings, which are prone to nematodes and take longer to fruit.
• Source: Purchase from Seedfarm.co.ke or trusted nurseries like Oxfarm Organic Ltd. Cost: KSh 80–150 per seedling.
• Quantity: An acre accommodates 1,000–1,800 trees at a spacing of 6ft x 6ft (1.8m x 1.8m). Total seedling cost: KSh 40,000–270,000 per acre.

3. Planting

• Timing: Plant during the long rains (March–May or October–November) for natural moisture.
• Hole Preparation: Dig holes 2ft x 2ft x 2ft (60cm x 60cm x 60cm). Mix topsoil with 10–15 kg of well-decomposed manure and 100g of organic fertilizer (e.g., Safi Sarvi Organic Fertilizer).
• Planting Process: Ensure the graft union is above the soil line to prevent disease. Place the seedling in the hole, cover with the soil-manure mix, and firm gently. Water thoroughly.
• Spacing: Use 6ft x 6ft (1.8m x 1.8m) for 1,200–1,500 trees per acre. For higher density, use 4ft x 5ft (1.2m x 1.5m) for up to 1,800 trees.

4. Crop Management

• Irrigation: Provide 20 liters of water per tree weekly during dry spells. Drip irrigation is recommended, costing KSh 40,000–80,000 per acre to install.
• Mulching: Apply organic mulch (e.g., dry grass, leaves) around the tree base to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Ensure mulch does not touch the graft union.
• Fertilization: Apply organic compost or manure annually. Use foliar feeds (e.g., YaraLiva Nitrabor) during flowering to boost fruit set. Consult Seedfarm agronomists for tailored plans.
• Pruning: Prune after harvesting to remove old branches, promote new growth, and maintain a manageable height (2–3 m). This enhances fruit quality and yield.
• Intercropping: In the first 1–2 years, intercrop with beans, vegetables, or maize to maximize land use and income.

5. Pest and Disease Management

• Common Pests:
  • Aphids: Cause curled leaves and sooty mold. Control with neem-based sprays or insecticides like Duduthrin 1.75 EC.
  • Whiteflies and Thrips: Affect leaves and fruit quality. Use sticky traps or insecticidal soap.
  • Nematodes: Muthakwa rootstock provides resistance, reducing the need for chemical controls.
• Common Diseases:
  • Powdery Mildew: Causes leaf drop. Apply copper oxychloride (organic-approved) preventively.
  • Fusarium Wilt: Avoid waterlogging and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combine cultural practices (e.g., sanitation, mulching) with organic and chemical controls. Seedfarm.co.ke offers pest management consultancy.

6. Harvesting

• Timing: Grafted tree tomatoes bear fruit in 8–11 months, with peak production in years 2–3. Harvest every 1–2 weeks when fruits are firm and turn red, yellow, or dark-red, depending on the variety.
• Yield Progression:
  • Year 1: 20–50 kg per tree.
  • Year 3: 50–100 kg per tree.
  • Year 5+: Up to 100 kg per tree.
• Technique: Hand-pick fruits with a short stem to avoid damage. Sort for quality to meet market standards.
• Average Yield: An acre (1,200 trees) can produce 24,000–60,000 kg annually, generating KSh 1.9–4.8 million at KSh 80 per kg.

Market Opportunities

• Local Markets: Sell to supermarkets, Marigiti, Githurai, and other urban markets at KSh 80–150 per kg. Restaurants and juicing companies are also key buyers.
• Export Markets: Connect with exporters like Oxfarm or East Africa Agric Exporters for prices up to KSh 200 per kg. Join cooperatives like Kisii Farmers Cooperative for better market access.
• Value Addition: Process into juice, jams, or sauces for higher returns. Tree tomato juice is popular for its health benefits, including antioxidants and B-complex vitamins.
• Seedfarm Support: Seedfarm links farmers to buyers and provides market trend updates. Contact us at 0712-075915.

Challenges and Solutions

• Pests and Diseases: Regular monitoring and IPM minimize losses. Use grafted seedlings to reduce nematode issues.
• Market Access: Partner with Seedfarm.co.ke or cooperatives for reliable market linkages.
• Water Scarcity: Install drip irrigation and mulch to conserve water. A 5,000-liter water tank costs KSh 20,000–50,000.
• Finance: Access loans through SACCOs or programs like NARIGP. Start small (e.g., ¼ acre) to reduce initial costs.
• Climate Variability: Plant in areas with adequate rainfall or irrigation. Use windbreaks to protect shallow-rooted trees.

Cost and Profit Analysis (Per Acre)

• Initial Costs:
  • Land preparation: KSh 20,000–50,000.
  • Seedlings (1,200): KSh 48,000–180,000.
  • Irrigation system: KSh 40,000–80,000.
  • Manure/fertilizer: KSh 15,000–30,000.
  • Total: KSh 123,000–340,000.
• Annual Maintenance: KSh 50,000–100,000 (labor, fertilizers, pest control, water).
• Revenue (Year 3): 1,200 trees x 50 kg x KSh 80 = KSh 4.8 million.
• Profit (Year 3): KSh 4.7–4.75 million after maintenance costs.

Tips for Success

• Source certified grafted seedlings from Seedfarm.co.ke to ensure quality and faster maturity.
• Join the Avocado and Tree Tomato Farmers Association for training and market support.
• Use drip irrigation for consistent yields, especially in semi-arid areas.
• Monitor market trends to time harvests for peak prices (e.g., export demand peaks in March–June).
• Explore value addition (e.g., tree tomato juice) to boost income, as seen with high-value crops like tarragon.

Contact Seedfarm

For certified grafted tree tomato seedlings, farm visits, or consultancy, reach out via:

• Phone: 0712-075915
• Email: info@seedfarm.co.ke
• Website: www.seedfarm.co.ke Visit our nurseries in Murang’a for quality seedlings and free farming guides.

Grafted tree tomato farming is a lucrative opportunity for Kenyan farmers, offering high returns with minimal care. With Seedfarm’s certified seedlings and support, you can tap into local and export markets, transforming your farm into a profitable agribusiness. Start your tree tomato journey today and reap the rewards of this versatile crop.