Breadfruit Seedlings

Nutrient-rich, drought-tolerant, and highly productive.

Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is a tropical superfood tree known for its large, starchy fruits that can be boiled, roasted, or fried as a delicious, nutritious alternative to potatoes or bread. Ideal for food security, agroforestry, and sustainable farming, our Breadfruit seedlings are grafted or vegetatively propagated to ensure fast maturity, true-to-type fruiting, and high productivity under Kenyan conditions.

Best Ecological Conditions for Growing Breadfruit in Kenya

Breadfruit thrives in warm, humid tropical climates, making many parts of Kenya suitable for successful cultivation.

• Altitude: Grows well from sea level up to 1,300 meters above sea level.

• Rainfall: Requires 1,500–2,500 mm of annual rainfall, or regular irrigation in drier zones.

• Temperature: Performs best in temperatures of 21°C–32°C.

• Soil Type: Prefers deep, fertile, well-drained loam soils.

• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5 to 7.5).

• Sunlight: Full sun exposure is essential for growth and fruiting.

• Wind Protection: Young trees benefit from windbreaks in exposed areas.

Soil Preparation and Fertility Management

• Clear land and dig holes of 60cm x 60cm x 60cm.

• Mix topsoil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

• Ensure soil is rich in potassium and organic matter.

• In dry areas, consider mulching and drip irrigation.

Spacing and Growth Habit

• Recommended spacing: 8m x 8m (about 65 trees per acre).

• Breadfruit trees can grow 12–20 meters tall but are easily managed with pruning.

• Trees have wide canopies—allow room for air circulation.

Population per Acre and Expected Yield

Each mature breadfruit can weigh 1.5 to 4 kg, offering substantial food output per tree annually.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Plant Breadfruit Seedlings

1. Site Selection: Choose fertile, well-drained land with full sun exposure.

2. Hole Preparation: Dig and prepare holes with organic compost and topsoil.

3. Transplanting: Carefully remove the seedling from the bag and plant at original soil level.

4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain soil moisture, especially during dry periods.

5. Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

6. Staking: Stake young trees to protect against wind damage.

7. Pruning: Lightly prune to shape the canopy and promote airflow.

8. Feeding: Fertilize with organic manure or NPK 10:10:20 every 4 months in early years.

9. Weeding: Keep the base of the tree free from weeds.

10. Pest/Disease Watch: Monitor for mealybugs, scale, and fungal issues—apply neem oil or suitable treatments.

Pests and Disease Management

• Pests: Mealybugs, scales, fruit flies, and ants.

• Diseases: Root rot (from waterlogging), powdery mildew.

• Management: Practice field hygiene, apply organic treatments, and ensure proper drainage.

Market Opportunities for Breadfruit in Kenya

Breadfruit is gaining attention for its food security potential, nutritional value, and commercial versatility.

• Food Use: Can be boiled, roasted, baked, or processed into flour.

• Agro-processing: Flour, chips, and value-added products.

• Institutional Demand: Schools, military, hospitals, and relief organizations.

• Export Potential: Processed breadfruit is in high demand globally as a gluten-free starch alternative.

• Agroforestry: Excellent tree for shade, carbon sequestration, and soil conservation.

Nutritional Value per 100g (cooked breadfruit)

• Calories: ~103 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~27g

• Fiber: 4.9g

• Vitamin C: 29mg (48% RDA)

• Potassium: 490mg

• Iron, Calcium, Magnesium: Present in moderate levels

Conclusion

Breadfruit is not just a tree—it’s a food security solution. Whether you’re targeting community feeding programs, value addition businesses, or home use, this is a long-term, sustainable crop worth investing in.

🌳 Secure your Breadfruit Seedlings now and be part of Kenya’s food revolution!
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