Rosecoco beans, also called the Red Gold or Kenya’s Kitchen Diamonds, are a rising star of Kenyan farming! These colorful beans aren’t just tasty – they’re also great for making money. More and more people want to buy them, both in Kenya and internationally.
But growing Rosecoco beans isn’t as easy as it looks. You can’t just throw some seeds in the ground and expect them to thrive. There’s a lot to learn, from picking the right type of bean for your area to figuring out when to plant and how to keep pests away.
In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about growing Rosecoco beans in Kenya. Whether you have a small farm or want to grow lots of beans to sell, we’ve got tips to help you succeed. Soon you’ll see why these spotted beans are becoming so popular and how you can grow them too!
Also Read: How to farm yellow beans in Kenya
Planting Rosecoco Beans
Whether you are an experienced farmer exploring new crops or a first-time farmer starting out in agriculture, this guide offers practical advice to Rosecoco farming including the common mistakes that you should avoid.
Let’s get into it!
How To Plant And Harvest Rosecoco Beans infographic
1. Choose The Right Location
Rosecoco beans can be planted in various locations, provided the growing seasons are suitable and the soil has excellent drainage.
Rosecoco beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), thrive in regions with well-distributed rainfall ranging from 600 to 1,200 mm annually. They grow best in loamy soils with good drainage.
They prefer moderate temperatures between 18°C and 24°C (64°F to 75°F). Extreme heat, frost, or prolonged dry spells can significantly impact crop yield and quality. Farmers must closely monitor weather patterns and adjust their planting schedules accordingly to minimize potential losses.
Soil fertility is another critical factor. In areas with poor soil fertility, farmers may experience reduced yields or need to increase the frequency of fertilizer applications. It’s recommended to conduct soil tests before planting and amend the soil as necessary.
In Kenya, Rosecoco beans flourish in several regions, including:
– Western region (e.g., Bungoma, Kakamega)
– Central region (e.g., Nyeri, Murang’a)
– Nyanza region (e.g., Kisii, Migori)
– Eastern region (e.g., Meru, Embu)
– Some parts of the Northern region (e.g., Laikipia)
– Rift Valley region (e.g., Nakuru, Bomet)
2. Land And Soil Preparation
Proper land preparation is crucial for successful Rosecoco bean farming, ensuring optimal growth conditions and efficient use of space.
First, clear the land of weeds and stones. Then, plough the soil to improve aeration and microbial activity. Follow this with harrowing to break down soil particles and create a finer texture. Level the land to ensure a uniform surface.
Source/Credit: Farm Documentaries
Rosecoco beans thrive best in a soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. If the soil pH is so acidic (below 5.5), agricultural lime should be incorporated to raise the pH. If the soil pH is too basic, (above 7.0), then sulfur should be added to lower the pH levels.
Mix well-decomposed manure thoroughly with the soil at a rate of 2-4 kg per square meter about 2-3 weeks before planting, ensuring an even distribution throughout the planting area to provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure before planting.
3. Seed Selection
Selecting high-quality Rosecoco bean seeds is crucial for successful cultivation. You should prioritize certified seeds from reputable suppliers like Kenya Seed Company or local agricultural research institutes. These certified seeds often have higher germination rates and are less likely to carry diseases.
When selecting seeds, look for the following characteristics:
– Uniformity: Choose seeds of similar size and color.
– Plumpness: Seeds should be well-filled and not shriveled.
– Cleanliness: Avoid seeds mixed with debris, stones, or other foreign matter.
– Damage-free: Avoid seeds with cracks, holes, or signs of insect damage.
Note: Consider the specific Rosecoco variety suited for your region. For instance, GLP 2 (Rosecoco) is well-adapted to medium altitude areas, while KAT B1 performs well in lower altitudes.
4. Choose The Best Planting Time
Rosecoco beans in Kenya are planted to coincide with the rainfall patterns. The main planting season occurs during the long rains, typically from March to May in most regions. A second planting opportunity arises during the short rains, usually from October to December.
Here is an example of Rosecoco farm with the perfect rainfall timings:
However, exact planting dates can vary significantly across Kenya’s diverse agro-ecological zones, so as a farmer, you should adjust the planting time based on local climate patterns and the onset of rains in your specific area.
5. Planting Holes And Planting Process
Create rows 40-45 cm apart, with the holes spaced 15-20 cm within rows. The holes should be a depth of 3-5 cm. This spacing allows for optimal growth and ease of management throughout the growing season.
Place 2 to 3 seeds in each hole to increase the chances of successful germination. This practice also allows for thinning later if all seeds germinate, ensuring the strongest plants are retained.
Cover the seeds with soil and lightly press down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Note: For Rosecoco beans planting, it is important to prepare holes alongside planting since the holes are so small and delicate hence preparing them prior to planting can be less effective.
6. Initial Watering
Water gently after planting to provide moisture for germination. Gentle watering helps settle the soil around the seeds, ensuring good seed-to-soil contact. This is essential for the seeds to absorb water and nutrients effectively.
Use a watering can with a hose with a spray nozzle. Water slowly and evenly to avoid displacing the seeds or creating puddles. Aim to moisten the soil to a depth of about 5-7 cm.
7. Mulching
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch like straw or grass clippings around your Rosecoco bean plants after the initial watering during planting.
Mulching is a valuable practice in Rosecoco bean cultivation, especially in regions with unpredictable or insufficient rainfall. It helps in moisture retention by acting as a barrier, reducing evaporation from the soil surface.
Mulching also helps in weed suppression by forming a physical barrier that inhibits weed growth, blocking sunlight which prevents many weed seeds from germinating.
Note: Mulching is optional for areas with consistent rainfall and farmers have alternative means of weed control.
8. Irrigation
While Rosecoco beans are primarily grown as a rainfed crop, supplemental irrigation can significantly improve yields, especially in areas prone to inconsistent rainfall patterns.
Pay close attention to rainfall patterns and soil moisture levels, focusing irrigation efforts during critical growth stages such as flowering and pod formation, typically occurring 30-45 days after planting. In the absence of adequate rainfall, aim to provide about 1-1.5 inches (25-38 mm) of water per week, preferably using drip or furrow irrigation methods to deliver water directly to the root zone.
Tip: Combine irrigation with mulching practices to maximize water retention and efficiency, to extend intervals between watering sessions.
Pests And Disease Control In Rosecoco Beans Farming
Farmers employ both organic methods and chemical controls to protect their Rosecoco beans from pests and diseases
Common Pests
Here are some common pests that affect Rosecoco beans during different stages of growth:
1. Bean fly (Ophiomyia spp.)
Larvae tunnel into stems, causing wilting and seedling death.
Control:
– Dress seeds with insecticide (e.g., imidacloprid) before planting.
– Apply systemic insecticides as soil drench for emerging seedlings.
2. Aphids
They suck sap from leaves and pods, causing curling and stunted growth. They can also transmit viral diseases.
Control:
– Use neem-based insecticides or pyrethroid sprays.
– Encourage natural predators like ladybirds.
3. Pod borers (Helicoverpa armigera)
Larvae feed on flowers and bore into pods, damaging seeds.
Control:
– Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) based biologicals or selective insecticides when flowering begins.
Common Diseases
These are the common diseases that affect Rosecoco beans farming
1. Bean rust (Uromyces appendiculatus)
Causes reddish-brown pustules on leaves, reducing photosynthesis and yield.
Control:
– Plant resistant varieties.
– Apply fungicides like mancozeb or copper-based products at the first sign of infection.
2. Angular leaf spot (Phaeoisariopsis griseola)
Forms angular, dark brown spots on leaves, leading to defoliation.
Control:
– Use certified clean seeds, practice crop rotation, and apply fungicides like azoxystrobin if severe.
According to a research by Lubao Murere of Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology:
“Bean producers/ farmers should intensify aphid control during flowering stage by spraying with appropriate pesticide either to kill them or repel them away from the host plant (Phaselous vulgaris). This will reduce disease incidence in common bean.”
3. Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV)
Transmitted by aphids, causing mosaic patterns on leaves and stunted growth.
Control:
– Plant resistant varieties and control aphid populations.
4. Root rots
Cause seedling death and poor plant stand.
Control:
– Practice crop rotation, use well-drained soils, and treat seeds with fungicides before planting.
Harvesting Rosecoco Beans
Rosecoco beans flower between 30 to 40 days after planting. This flowering stage is crucial as it marks the beginning of pod development.
Here’s an example of what they would look like at 2 months
Around 60 days after planting, the pods become visibly swollen and start to change color, developing a reddish color. This color change is a key indicator that the beans are approaching maturity. The optimal harvesting window for Rosecoco beans is generally between 65 to 70 days after planting, depending on specific growing conditions and variety.
To maximize yield, farmers are encouraged to practice regular, selective harvesting. This involves picking only the mature pods while leaving the green, immature pods on the plant to continue developing. This method allows for multiple harvests from the same crop and can significantly increase overall yield.
Post-Harvest Management
Post-harvest handling offers two main options for farmers:
– Pod selling: The entire pods can be harvested and sold directly to vendors or wholesalers. This method is often preferred when there’s a strong market demand for fresh beans.
– Seed processing: Alternatively, farmers may choose to sundry the harvested pods. This involves spreading the pods out to dry thoroughly in the sun, typically for 3-5 days depending on weather conditions.
Once fully dried, the beans can be easily separated from the pods by threshing or manual shelling. This method allows for longer-term storage of the beans and often fetches a higher price per unit weight compared to selling whole pods.
If you choose to store your beans and sell it later, make sure to have dried the beans to a moisture content below 12%. Properly dried beans should be stored in clean, dry containers in a cool, well-ventilated area to prevent mold and insect infestation.
The choice between these methods often depends on market conditions, available labor, and storage facilities. Proper post-harvest handling is crucial to maintain the quality and marketability of Rosecoco beans.
Rosecoco Beans Yield Per Acre
Rosecoco beans yield per acre to be 7-10 bags, which translates to approximately 630-900 kg per acre.
To achieve optimal yields, farmers should:
– Practice timely harvesting as pods mature
– Harvest in multiple rounds to catch all pods at their peak
– Ensure proper drying and storage to maintain quality
Rosecoco Beans Price Kenya
The price of Rosecoco beans in Kenya varies by region and season, typically ranging from Ksh. 7,000 to Ksh. 9,900 per 90kg bag.
Factors influencing price include:
– Local supply and demand: Prices fluctuate based on the quantity of Rosecoco beans available in a specific area and the level of consumer demand. Higher demand or lower supply typically leads to increased prices.
– Production costs in different regions: Variations in input costs such as labor, fertilizer, and transportation across different parts of Kenya affect the final price of the beans in each region.
– Seasonal availability: Rosecoco bean prices tend to be lower during peak harvest seasons when supply is abundant, and higher during off-seasons when supply is limited.
– Overall market conditions: Broader economic factors, including inflation, export opportunities, and competition from other crops, can influence the market price of Rosecoco beans across Kenya.
Current prices in major Kenyan towns:
| Kenya’s major towns | Charges per 90kg sack |
|---|---|
| Nairobi | Approximately Ksh. 7,000 |
| Kisumu | Approximately Ksh. 8,800 |
| Eldoret | Approximately Ksh. 9,900 |
| Mombasa | Approximately Ksh. 6,200 |
| Nakuru | Approximately Ksh. 8,500 |
| Average | Approximately Ksh. 8,080 |
Profitability Of Rosecoco Beans
Rosecoco beans can be highly profitable, with potential earnings of about Ksh. 35,100 per acre per harvest. Here’s a breakdown of expenses and potential profits:
| Items | Description | Charges (Ksh) |
|---|---|---|
| Land preparation | One acre can consume up to | 20,000 |
| Seeds | One acre can consume up to 25 kg at approximately Ksh. 100 | 2,500 |
| Fertilizer | Around 25kg | 1,600 |
| Miscellaneous | Transport and labour | 2,000 |
| Total | 26,100 | |
| Average Harvest: 765kg. 1kg can be sold at approximately Ksh. 80 | ||
| Total profits: Total cost of production – Ksh. 26,100. Total sales – Ksh. 61,200 | ||
| Profits realized: Approximately Ksh. 35,100 | ||
Actual profits may vary based on factors such as weather conditions, market prices, and individual farm management practices. Farmers should also consider crop rotation and sustainable farming practices to maintain soil health and long-term productivity.
Benefits of Rosecoco Beans Farming
1. Nutritional Value: Rosecoco beans are an excellent source of essential nutrients, including high-quality protein, dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc. These nutrients contribute significantly to a balanced diet and improved overall health.
2. Income Generation: The commercial cultivation of Rosecoco beans provides farmers with a dependable source of income. This crop is particularly beneficial when integrated into mixed farming systems, complementing other agricultural activities and diversifying revenue streams.
3. Soil Improvement: As leguminous plants, Rosecoco beans play a crucial role in enhancing soil fertility. They fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and improving soil structure when used in crop rotation systems.
Challenges in Rosecoco Beans Farming
1. Pests and Diseases: Rosecoco beans are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including bean fly infestations, fungal diseases like rust, and bacterial blight. These threats can significantly impact crop yield and quality if not managed effectively.
2. Climate Variability: Unpredictable weather patterns pose a major risk to Rosecoco bean production. Drought can lead to poor germination and stunted growth, while excessive rainfall may cause waterlogging and increase disease prevalence. Extreme temperatures can also affect flowering and pod formation.
3. Market Access: Farmers, especially smallholders, often face difficulties in accessing reliable markets and securing fair prices for their Rosecoco beans. Price volatility due to supply-demand imbalances and challenges in negotiating with middlemen can impact the profitability of bean farming.
Good Luck Farming!
Rosecoco bean farming presents a valuable opportunity for Kenyan farmers to improve their livelihoods while contributing to food security and soil health. Despite challenges such as pest management and market fluctuations, the crop’s income potential make it an attractive option for both small-scale and commercial farmers.
Success in Rosecoco bean cultivation requires a combination of good agricultural practices, effective pest and disease management, and smart market strategies. We hope this information grants you a smooth and profitable Rosecoco bean farming experience!
