Amaranth, locally known as “terere” in Kenya, is a highly versatile crop valued both as a leafy vegetable and a grain-producing pseudo-cereal. Renowned for its resilience and ability to thrive in diverse agro-climatic conditions, amaranth grows rapidly, making it a favourite among smallholder farmers seeking fast returns. Its leaves are harvested within just 3 to 4 weeks of planting, and with proper care, it can provide multiple harvests over a growing season.
In Kenya, amaranth plays a crucial role in enhancing food and nutrition security. It is packed with essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, making it a vital addition to local diets, particularly in combating micronutrient deficiencies. ‘
The crop is also emerging as a reliable income source for farmers in rural and peri-urban areas due to its low input requirements and consistent demand.
Urban markets across Kenya have seen a surge in the consumption of indigenous vegetables, with amaranth leading the pack due to its health benefits and culinary versatility.
Additionally, there is a growing international market for both amaranth leaves and grains, opening up export opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses.
With proper agronomic practices and support, amaranth farming has the potential to uplift livelihoods, promote sustainable agriculture, and strengthen Kenya’s food systems.
Varieties of Amaranth Grown in Kenya
Kenya is home to several amaranth varieties that thrive in its diverse agro-ecological zones. These varieties are either indigenous or improved (hybrid), and they differ in appearance, yield potential, and resilience. The most commonly cultivated amaranth varieties in Kenya include:
1. Amaranthus Dubius
This is one of the most popular leafy vegetable varieties in Kenya, commonly known as “terere” in Kikuyu or “dodo” in Kiswahili. It has soft, tender leaves and grows vigorously in warm climates. Dubius is known for its rapid growth, making it ideal for multiple harvests within a short period. It is also tolerant of pests and adaptable to poor soils.
2. Amaranthus Hybridus
This variety produces broad, dark green leaves and is valued for its high yield and regrowth ability. It is well-suited to both home gardens and commercial farms. A. hybridus tolerates drought well and performs reliably under minimal care, making it a suitable option for dryland farming.
3. Amaranthus cruentus
Known for its reddish stems and leaves, this dual-purpose variety is cultivated for both grain and vegetable use. Its grains are rich in protein and amino acids, while the leaves are used as vegetables. A. cruentus has excellent drought tolerance and can be harvested over a long period.
4. Local landraces (wild types)
In rural areas, farmers often cultivate traditional varieties passed down over generations. These landraces are well adapted to specific local conditions, require little input, and are particularly hardy under harsh environmental conditions.
Key Traits Across Kenyan Amaranth Varieties:
- Drought Resistance: Most Kenyan varieties can withstand dry spells and still produce marketable yields, making them suitable for arid and semi-arid lands.
- High Yield Potential: Varieties like A. hybridus and A. dubius can produce large volumes of leafy biomass, making them ideal for both subsistence and commercial farming.
- Leaf Size and Tenderness: Improved varieties are bred for larger, softer leaves, which fetch better prices in markets.
- Regrowth Ability: Many varieties support continuous leaf harvesting for several weeks, allowing for a steady supply and increased profitability.
With rising awareness of the health benefits of traditional vegetables, farmers are increasingly turning to these resilient and profitable amaranth varieties. Selection of the right variety based on region, purpose (leaf or grain), and market demand is key to maximising productivity.
Ideal Agro-Ecological Conditions for Amaranth Growing
Amaranth is a hardy and adaptable crop that thrives in a wide range of climatic and soil conditions. Its versatility allows it to be cultivated across many parts of Kenya, from backyard gardens to commercial plots. However, to achieve optimal growth and yields, specific agro-ecological conditions are most favourable:
Climate Requirements
Amaranth performs best in warm climates with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 35°C. These temperatures support rapid germination, vigorous vegetative growth, and strong root development.
While amaranth is drought-tolerant, it still requires moderate and evenly distributed rainfall—ideally between 500 mm and 1,200 mm per growing season—for optimal leaf production. In areas with erratic rainfall, supplemental irrigation is recommended, especially during the seedling and early vegetative stages.
Soil Requirements
Amaranth prefers fertile, well-drained soils with good organic matter content. Loamy or sandy loam soils are ideal as they allow for proper root penetration and reduce the risk of waterlogging, which can stunt growth and cause root diseases. The ideal soil pH for amaranth ranges from 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral), which allows for efficient nutrient uptake. Incorporating organic matter such as compost, farmyard manure, or biochar enhances soil structure and fertility.
Best Growing Regions in Kenya
Thanks to its adaptability, amaranth is grown successfully in multiple regions across the country. The best-known regions include:
- Western Kenya (Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia): Ample rainfall and fertile soils make this region highly productive for amaranth.
- Central Kenya (Murang’a, Nyeri, Kirinyaga): Cool nights and rich loamy soils favour healthy growth.
- Rift Valley (Nakuru, Kericho, Eldoret): With moderate rainfall and rising commercial demand, the Rift Valley offers strong market potential.
- Nairobi Peri-Urban Areas (Kiambu, Kajiado, Machakos): Proximity to urban markets and favourable temperatures make these areas ideal for intensive amaranth cultivation.
- Coastal and Eastern regions (Kwale, Kitui, Makueni): With the use of drought-tolerant varieties and irrigation, amaranth can be cultivated year-round in these zones.
Land Preparation and Planting
Proper land preparation and planting techniques are essential to ensure healthy amaranth crop establishment, uniform growth, and high yields. Whether using direct seeding or transplanting methods, the goal is to create a fine, friable seedbed that supports optimal germination and root development.
1. Land Clearing:
Remove all weeds, crop residues, and debris from the previous season. This helps eliminate pest habitats and reduces disease pressure.
2. Ploughing and Harrowing:
Plough the land to a depth of about 20–30 cm to loosen the soil and enhance aeration and water infiltration. Harrow the ploughed field to break up large soil clods and create a smooth, fine-textured seedbed—critical for small-seeded crops like amaranth.
3. Bed Formation (Optional):
In areas prone to waterlogging or where irrigation is used, raised beds or ridges are recommended to promote drainage and reduce root rot risks.
4. Seed Rate and Spacing
Seed Rate: For direct seeding, use approximately 1–2 kg of seed per hectare. If transplanting, raise seedlings in a nursery and use fewer seeds (about 0.5 kg per hectare for nursery beds).
Spacing:
• Direct Seeding: 20–30 cm between rows and 10–15 cm between plants within the row.
• Transplanting: 30 cm x 20 cm spacing allows for better aeration, weed control, and ease of harvesting.
5. Direct Seeding vs. Transplanting
Direct Seeding: This is faster and less labour-intensive, suitable for large-scale farming. It works best when seed is evenly mixed with sand or ash and broadcast or line-sown shallowly (1–2 cm deep). Keep the topsoil moist for good germination.
Transplanting: Ideal for small plots or when ensuring uniform spacing. Seedlings are raised in a nursery for 2–3 weeks and then transplanted when they have 3–5 true leaves. This method improves survival and establishment, especially in areas with erratic rainfall.
Planting Tips for Optimal Germination
- Plant at the beginning of the rainy season or irrigate consistently if growing during dry periods.
- Lightly mulch after planting to retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
- Avoid planting too deep; small seeds require shallow sowing for successful emergence.
- Use well-decomposed organic manure or compost before planting to enrich the soil.
- Water gently and regularly until seedlings are well established (especially during the first 2 weeks).
Well-executed land preparation and thoughtful planting can greatly reduce weed pressure and improve crop uniformity, setting the stage for a productive harvest.
Organic Fertiliser for Amaranth: Safi Biochar and Its Advantages
As farmers seek sustainable and cost-effective ways to improve soil fertility and boost crop yields, organic inputs like biochar are gaining attention in Kenya.
Among the most promising organic amendments is Safi Biochar — a carbon-rich soil enhancer that can transform amaranth farming by improving soil health and productivity.
What is Safi Biochar?
Safi Biochar is produced by heating organic agricultural waste (such as maize cobs, coffee husks, or coconut shells) in a low-oxygen environment—a process called pyrolysis.
Unlike compost or farmyard manure, biochar is stable and does not decompose quickly. When added to soil, it acts like a sponge that retains nutrients and moisture while fostering beneficial microbial life.
Key Benefits of Safi Biochar in Amaranth Farming
Improves Soil Fertility
Safi Biochar significantly enhances the soil’s ability to retain essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It increases the soil’s cation exchange capacity (CEC), ensuring that nutrients are available to amaranth plants over time. This leads to stronger, healthier plants with higher yields.
Enhances Water Retention and Soil Structure
The porous nature of biochar improves drainage in heavy soils and enhances moisture retention in sandy soils. This dual function is particularly useful for amaranth farming in areas with erratic rainfall. Better soil aeration also encourages deep root development and reduces the chances of root diseases.
Boosts Microbial Activity
Biochar provides a habitat for beneficial soil microbes that break down organic matter and suppress harmful pathogens. Increased microbial activity leads to improved nutrient cycling, disease resistance, and overall plant vigour.
Reduces Dependency on Chemical Fertilisers
By naturally enriching the soil, biochar lowers the need for repeated applications of synthetic fertilisers. This not only reduces long-term input costs but also promotes environmentally friendly farming practices.
Environmentally Sustainable
Safi Biochar contributes to climate-smart agriculture by sequestering carbon in the soil. It helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports long-term soil regeneration, making it a powerful tool for sustainable farming.
Application Tips for Amaranth Farmers
For optimal results, apply Safi Biochar by mixing it into the top 10–15 cm of soil at a rate of 5–10 tons per hectare. To enhance its effectiveness, “charge” the biochar before application by mixing it with compost, farmyard manure, or liquid organic fertiliser.
This pre-charging allows the biochar to hold nutrients that are immediately accessible to the growing amaranth crop.
Farmers can also combine biochar with other organic inputs like compost or vermicompost to further improve soil health and crop resilience.
In summary, Safi Biochar offers a sustainable, affordable, and effective way to improve soil fertility and amaranth productivity. Its long-lasting benefits make it an ideal choice for Kenyan smallholder farmers aiming to farm more profitably and sustainably.
Amaranth Leaf Benefits
Amaranth is not only a hardy and fast-growing crop, but it is also one of the most nutritious vegetables consumed in Kenya and around the world.
Known locally as “terere,” the amaranth leaf is highly valued for its rich nutrient profile, versatility in the kitchen, and numerous health benefits. Its consumption is especially important in rural and urban communities where access to diverse food options may be limited.
Nutritional Value of Amaranth Leaves
Amaranth leaves are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in:
- Vitamins: Especially Vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate.
- Minerals: High levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
- Protein: It contains more protein than most traditional leafy vegetables, making it ideal for vegetarian diets.
- Dietary Fibre: Supports healthy digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Antioxidants: Amaranth contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds that combat oxidative stress in the body.
Key Health Benefits of Amaranth
- Supports Eye and Skin Health
The high Vitamin A content in amaranth leaves promotes good vision, especially in children, and supports healthy skin. This is particularly helpful in combating vitamin A deficiency, which is still common in parts of Kenya. - Boosts Immunity
With high levels of Vitamin C and antioxidants, amaranth helps strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting off infections and illnesses. - Improves Bone Health
Calcium and magnesium in amaranth support strong bones and teeth, making it a good dietary addition for children, pregnant women, and the elderly. - Helps Combat Anaemia
Amaranth leaves are rich in iron, a key nutrient for preventing and treating iron-deficiency anaemia. Combined with Vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption, regular consumption can help increase haemoglobin levels. - Supports Healthy Digestion and Weight Management
The high fibre content aids digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it beneficial for individuals managing their weight. - Ideal for Diabetics and Heart Health
Due to its low glycemic index and presence of magnesium and potassium, amaranth can help regulate blood sugar levels and support cardiovascular health.
Culinary Versatility
In Kenya, amaranth leaves are typically sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes groundnuts or milk to enrich flavour and nutrition. They can also be added to soups, stews, or used in green smoothies. Its quick cooking time and soft texture make it convenient for daily meal preparation.
Economic and Social Benefits
Economic Benefits of Amaranth
- Income Generation:
Amaranth is a fast-growing crop with high market demand, especially in urban areas. Farmers can harvest multiple times a year, leading to steady income. - Low Input Costs:
It requires minimal fertilisers and pesticides, making it affordable to grow, especially for smallholder and subsistence farmers. - Value Addition Opportunities:
Amaranth can be processed into flour, snacks, or porridge mixes, opening up opportunities for agro-processing and small-scale entrepreneurship. - Market Versatility:
Both the leaves and seeds are marketable, giving farmers multiple revenue streams from a single crop. - Climate Resilience:
Its tolerance to drought and poor soils makes it a reliable crop in areas affected by climate change, reducing crop failure risks and promoting food security.
Social Benefits of Amaranth
- Nutritional Security:
Rich in protein, vitamins (especially A and C), iron, and calcium, amaranth helps combat malnutrition and anaemia, particularly in vulnerable communities. - Empowerment of Women and Youth:
As a manageable crop, it offers income and nutritional benefits for women and youth engaged in small-scale farming or kitchen gardening. - Cultural Significance:
In many African and South American communities, amaranth holds traditional value and is used in ceremonies or as part of customary diets. - Employment Creation:
From farming to selling and processing, the amaranth value chain supports employment in rural and peri-urban areas. - Health Promotion:
With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, regular consumption of amaranth contributes to overall community health and well-being.
Crop Management in Amaranth Farming
Effective crop management practices are essential for maximising yields, ensuring healthy growth, and minimising losses in amaranth farming. Given amaranth’s fast growth cycle and high leaf productivity, farmers must pay close attention to weeding, watering, and pest and disease control throughout the crop’s lifecycle.
Weed Management
Amaranth is highly sensitive to weed competition, especially during the first 3–4 weeks after planting. Weeds compete for nutrients, sunlight, and moisture, which can significantly reduce leaf quality and yield.
- Hand weeding or shallow hoeing should be done regularly, especially during the early growth stages.
- Mulching with organic materials such as dry grass or banana leaves can suppress weed growth while retaining soil moisture.
Irrigation and Water Management
Although amaranth is drought-tolerant, optimal yields are achieved with consistent soil moisture. Water stress during the early stages can delay growth and reduce leaf quality.
- In dry areas or during drought spells, irrigate 2–3 times a week, depending on soil type and weather.
- Drip irrigation is ideal for water conservation and maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging the root zone.
Pest and Disease Control
Amaranth is relatively resistant to many diseases, but like all leafy vegetables, it can still be attacked by pests and pathogens under certain conditions.
Common Pests:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause leaf curling and transmit viral diseases.
- Leaf miners: Larvae tunnel into leaves, creating unsightly trails and reducing market value.
- Cutworms and caterpillars: These pests chew young stems and leaves, especially in the seedling stage.
Management:
- Use neem-based biopesticides or homemade organic sprays (e.g., garlic-chilli solution) to manage pests naturally.
- Intercrop with pest-repellent crops like marigold or basil to reduce pest pressure.
- Practice crop rotation with non-leafy vegetables to break pest and disease cycles.
Common Diseases Affecting Amaranth:
- Downy mildew and leaf spots: These can appear in humid conditions and cause yellowing or browning of leaves.
- Damping-off: Affects seedlings, causing them to wilt and die.
Management:
- Avoid overcrowding; ensure good spacing and air circulation.
- Water in the morning to reduce overnight leaf wetness.
- Remove and destroy infected plants early to prevent spread.
Nutrient Management
While Safi Biochar can significantly boost soil fertility, additional nutrient supplementation may be needed for maximum leaf production.
- Topdress with organic compost or well-rotted manure after the first harvest.
- Foliar sprays using liquid organic fertilisers (like compost tea or seaweed extract) can boost leaf growth and resilience.
Harvesting and Marketing of Amaranth in Kenya
Harvesting
Amaranth is a fast-maturing crop and can be harvested within 3 to 4 weeks after sowing, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Farmers can adopt two main harvesting methods:
- Plucking Leaves (Multiple Harvests)
This is the most common practice in Kenya, especially for subsistence and commercial markets. Individual leaves are hand-plucked once the plant reaches 15–20 cm in height.
- Frequency: Harvesting can be done every 3 to 5 days for up to 4–6 weeks.
- Advantage: This method extends the crop’s productive life and ensures a continuous supply for household consumption or market sales.
- Uprooting Whole Plants (Single Harvest)
In some markets or when regrowth is not desired, the entire plant is uprooted. This is typically done 25–35 days after sowing.
- Advantage: Easier to manage in large-scale operations or where land is needed for successive crops.
- Limitation: Eliminates the opportunity for multiple harvests from the same crop cycle.
Post-Harvest Handling
Amaranth leaves are highly perishable and begin to wilt within hours of harvesting if not properly handled. To maintain freshness and market quality:
- Harvest early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce wilting.
- Keep harvested leaves in a cool, shaded area.
- Sprinkle with clean water and store in woven baskets or ventilated crates.
- Transport quickly to market or cold storage to maintain freshness.
Packaging for sale may involve simple bunching and tying using banana fibre or biodegradable twine. For export or high-end retail, improved packaging such as polythene-lined boxes or clamshell containers may be used.
Marketing Channels
The demand for amaranth vegetables is steadily rising, both locally and regionally. Key marketing avenues include:
- Local Markets: Sold fresh in open-air markets, especially in urban areas such as Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
- Supermarkets: Supplied through aggregators or farmer cooperatives for better price margins.
- Institutions: Schools, hospitals, and restaurants increasingly seek regular deliveries of fresh greens.
- Export Market: Amaranth is gaining interest in the diaspora markets (especially in the Middle East and Europe), often as part of “African indigenous vegetables.”
Value-Added Opportunities
Innovative farmers and agripreneurs can explore value addition to increase income and reduce post-harvest losses. Examples include:
- Dried amaranth leaves (sun- or solar-dried) for longer shelf life and sale as herbal teas or vegetable powder.
- Blended green smoothies or juices using amaranth leaves.
- Packaged ready-to-cook leafy vegetable bundles for urban consumers.
Market Trends and Tips
- Demand is highest during the dry season when other vegetables are scarce.
- Consistency in quality and supply builds customer loyalty.
- Farmers’ cooperatives and SACCOs can help in collective marketing, training, and negotiation for better prices.
In conclusion, Amaranth farming in Kenya offers an excellent opportunity for both smallholder and commercial farmers to diversify their crops, improve household nutrition, and generate income throughout the year. This fast-growing leafy vegetable and pseudo-cereal thrives in a wide range of agro-ecological zones and matures quickly, making it ideal for short growing seasons and fast market turnover.
As outlined in this guide, success in amaranth production depends on several key factors:
- Choosing the right variety suited for your region and market.
- Preparing land thoroughly and using appropriate planting techniques.
- Practising consistent crop management—especially weeding, irrigation, and pest control.
- Incorporating sustainable practices such as using Safi Biochar and other organic fertilisers to enhance soil fertility and plant health.
- Understanding the nutritional and economic value of amaranth leaves and leveraging their benefits to meet rising consumer demand.
- Harvesting timely and handling produce properly to ensure quality and reduce losses.
- Tapping into local, institutional, and export markets while exploring value addition for greater returns.
With increasing awareness of healthy eating and the value of indigenous vegetables, amaranth is gaining traction in Kenya’s food systems. By adopting best practices and staying informed about market trends, farmers can make amaranth farming a reliable and profitable venture.
