Arrowroot, locally known as nduma in Kenya, is a popular and nutritious root crop widely consumed across the country. Known for its rich fibre content and natural starch, nduma is a staple in many Kenyan households, especially during breakfast or as a side dish.
Despite its popularity, many smallholder farmers struggle to achieve high yields due to poor soil nutrition and inadequate crop management.
One of the most critical factors for successful nduma farming is the use of the right fertiliser. Fertilisers provide essential nutrients that support healthy root development, boost plant immunity, and enhance overall productivity. Without proper fertilisation, arrowroots tend to grow smaller, become susceptible to diseases, and fetch lower prices in the market.
Common challenges in arrowroot farming include low yields, pest infestations, and diseases like root rot and leaf blight. These issues can be minimised or even prevented through the application of high-quality fertilisers such as Safi Sarvi and Safi Topper, which are specifically designed to nourish root crops and improve soil structure.
Understanding Arrowroot (Nduma) Farming in Kenya
Arrowroot, or nduma, thrives in wetland areas and requires loamy, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It’s commonly grown in regions like Central Kenya, parts of Western Kenya, and along riverbanks where water is available year-round. With the right conditions, nduma takes between 6 to 10 months to mature and can provide a reliable source of income for smallholder farmers.
However, nduma farming in Kenya is not without its challenges. Many farmers plant arrowroots without first testing their soils or providing the necessary nutrients. This often leads to stunted growth, delayed maturity, and reduced tuber size. Additionally, arrowroots are sensitive to waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
To succeed in arrowroot farming, farmers must go beyond traditional practices and adopt modern inputs such as high-quality fertilisers. These fertilisers help replenish depleted soils, support vigorous root growth, and ultimately lead to higher yields and better market prices.
Best Arrowroot Fertilizer (Nduma)
Choosing the right fertiliser is crucial for achieving maximum yield and healthy tuber development in arrowroot farming. Fertilisers not only provide essential nutrients but also help improve soil structure and resistance to diseases. Below are some of the best fertiliser options for arrowroot farmers in Kenya:
Safi Sarvi Fertiliser
Safi Sarvi is an organic fertiliser made from a blend of composted agricultural waste and enriched with minerals and beneficial microorganisms. It is designed to restore soil fertility and promote healthy root growth in crops like arrowroot.
Benefits:
- Improves root size and weight: Its organic content supports consistent and healthy tuber development.
- Enhances soil health: Adds organic matter that improves soil structure, aeration, and water retention.
- Promotes early maturity: Boosts nutrient uptake, leading to faster plant development and earlier harvests.
- Eco-friendly: Safe for long-term use, reducing dependence on chemical inputs while regenerating soil health.
Safi Topper Fertiliser
Safi Topper is a granular fertiliser rich in phosphorus and potassium, ideal for tuber crops during the mid-to-late stages of growth. It’s used as a top-dressing fertiliser to enhance yield quantity and quality.
Benefits:
- Boosts disease resistance: Strengthens plant immunity against common soil-borne diseases.
- Strengthens plant structure: Supports robust leaf and root formation, crucial for starch production.
- Encourages better starch accumulation: Leads to heavier and tastier arrowroots, ideal for commercial markets.
Other Recommended Fertilisers
Additional fertiliser options that can benefit nduma farming include:
- Compost and well-rotted manure: Affordable organic options that improve soil fertility and microbial life.
- Bone meal or rock phosphate: Great for boosting phosphorus in poor soils.
- Tailored NPK blends (e.g., 20:10:10 or 17:17:17): Suitable when soil tests show nutrient deficiencies.
Combining organic fertilisers like Safi Sarvi with targeted top-dressers like Safi Topper offers the best results in sustainable nduma farming.
How Quality Fertiliser Increases Yield and Fights Disease
Healthy, nutrient-rich soils are the foundation of any productive farm. For crops like arrowroot (nduma), which rely heavily on underground tuber development, the right fertiliser can make the difference between a struggling crop and a thriving harvest.
Using high-quality fertilisers such as Safi Sarvi and Safi Topper plays a critical role in:
Combating Common Arrowroot Diseases
Arrowroots are susceptible to several soil- and water-borne diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and blight. These diseases typically thrive in poorly drained, nutrient-deficient soils.
- Safi Sarvi, with its organic content, enriches the soil with beneficial microbes that suppress harmful pathogens and improve soil biodiversity.
- Safi Topper, on the other hand, strengthens the plant’s internal structure, making it more resilient to infection and environmental stress.
Improving Drought Tolerance and Soil Structure
Fertilisers improve water retention and root depth, particularly important in areas prone to erratic rainfall.
- Organic fertilisers like Safi Sarvi enhance soil structure, allowing better water absorption and reducing runoff.
- This means that even in periods of short drought, the arrowroot plants can survive longer and recover faster.
Boosting Yields, Even for Smallholder Farmers
Arrowroot farming in Kenya is often done on small plots of land, making efficiency per acre crucial.
- Applying the right fertilisers improves tuber size, weight, and starch content, increasing total yield.
- Farmers using Safi Sarvi and Safi Topper have reported better crop uniformity, faster maturity, and higher market value for their harvests.
Application Guide: When and How to Apply Arrowroot Fertilizer/ Nduma
For arrowroot (nduma) to achieve optimal growth and yield, fertilisers must be applied at the right time and in the correct way. Whether you’re using organic options like Safi Sarvi or top-dressing with Safi Topper, strategic application ensures nutrients are effectively absorbed and roots develop well.
Fertiliser Application Timeline
- Before Planting (Land Preparation Phase):
- Apply Safi Sarvi organic fertiliser or well-rotted compost/manure.
- Incorporate it into the soil 2–3 weeks before planting to enrich the soil and boost microbial activity.
- Mid-Growth Stage (2–3 months after planting):
- Apply Safi Topper or other phosphorus- and potassium-rich fertilisers to support tuber bulking.
- This stage is critical for starch accumulation and plant strength.
- Maturity Stage (4–5 months onward):
- Apply a light dose of Safi Topper or compost if necessary, especially in poor soils.
- Avoid heavy application at this stage to prevent tuber cracking or rotting.
Proper Spacing and Application Depth
Maintain spacing of 60 cm x 60 cm between arrowroot plants to allow full root expansion. When applying fertiliser:
- Do not place fertiliser directly on the seed rhizome to prevent root burn.
- Place fertiliser 5–10 cm away and 5 cm deep in the soil for best absorption.
- Mix fertiliser lightly with the soil before covering.
Best Practices for Organic vs. Inorganic Fertilisers
| Type | Application Tips |
| Organic (e.g., Safi Sarvi, compost, manure) | Apply generously during land preparation. Ensure compost is well-decomposed to avoid attracting pests. Improves soil over time. |
| Inorganic (e.g., Safi Topper, NPK blends) | Apply in small, spaced doses. Water immediately after application. Avoid overuse to prevent nutrient imbalance and soil degradation. |
By following these guidelines, Ndamu farmers can maximise nutrient uptake, improve plant resilience, and enjoy consistent, high-quality yields throughout the growing season.
Arrowroot (Nduma) Benefits
Arrowroot, commonly known as nduma in Kenya, is a highly nutritious tuber crop enjoyed across the country for its health and culinary value. It’s gaining popularity both locally and globally due to its impressive nutritional profile and adaptability.
In English, nduma is known as arrowroot, a starchy root vegetable from the Maranta plant family. It’s cultivated primarily for its edible rhizomes, which are rich in nutrients and suitable for diverse dishes.
Health Benefits of Arrowroot
Arrowroot is not just a delicious food crop, it also offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Fibre: Promotes digestion, helps regulate bowel movement, and keeps you fuller longer.
- High in Potassium: Supports heart health by managing blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke.
- Packed with B Vitamins (like folate and niacin): Boosts energy levels and supports brain function.
- Gluten-Free & Easily Digestible: Ideal for people with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or sensitive stomachs.
- Low Glycemic Index: Suitable for diabetics as it helps regulate blood sugar levels when consumed in moderation.
Culinary Uses in Kenya and Beyond
In Kenya, nduma is a common breakfast or lunch dish which is often boiled and served with tea, avocado, or meat stew.
Other uses include:
- Mashed arrowroot is a side dish.
- Arrowroot flour is used in baking and baby food.
- Crispy arrowroot chips, a popular snack option.
Globally, arrowroot starch is also used in gluten-free baking and as a thickening agent in soups and sauces.
Nduma Farming in Kenya
Nduma farming in Kenya is practised in regions with access to moist, well-drained soils such as Central, Western, and parts of the Rift Valley.
With proper care and the use of organic and mineral fertilisers like Safi Sarvi and Safi Topper, farmers can significantly increase yields and profits.
As demand for healthier, gluten-free food options continues to grow, arrowroot farming presents a great opportunity for both subsistence and commercial farmers across Kenya.
Tips for Successful Nduma Farming in Kenya
For farmers looking to increase yields and maximise profits, nduma (arrowroot) farming in Kenya requires more than just fertile land. Combining the best agronomic practices with the right fertilisers and water management techniques ensures healthy growth and high-quality tubers.
Here are key tips for success:
Choose Certified Seed Corms
- Start with healthy, disease-free seed corms from certified suppliers or agricultural research institutions.
- Avoid planting shrivelled or mouldy corms, as they may fail to sprout or lead to poor yields.
Plant in Raised Beds or Trenches
- Arrowroots thrive in moist but well-drained soils. Raised beds or sunken trenches improve water control and reduce the risk of root rot.
- In waterlogged areas, elevate the planting beds to prevent tuber spoilage.
Maintain Consistent Watering
- Arrowroots require regular moisture, especially during the first 3–4 months.
- Use mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weed growth.
- Avoid waterlogging, which promotes fungal diseases and tuber decay.
Apply Fertiliser and Practice Proper Crop Management
- Use a combination of organic fertilisers like Safi Sarvi at planting and mineral-based top dressings like Safi Topper during mid-growth.
- Weed regularly, especially in the first 6–8 weeks, to reduce competition.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, and use eco-friendly control methods when needed.
In conclusion, using the right fertiliser is one of the most critical steps in achieving healthy arrowroot (nduma) growth, improving disease resistance, and boosting overall yields. Products like Safi Sarvi, a high-quality organic fertiliser, enrich the soil and promote strong early root development.
Meanwhile, Safi Topper, with its high potassium and phosphorus content, supports tuber expansion, disease resistance, and better starch accumulation.
When combined with good farming practices such as:
- Using certified planting materials,
- Creating raised beds or trenches,
- Consistent but well-managed watering,
- And integrated crop management,
As demand for nutritious, gluten-free food grows both locally and internationally, modernising your arrowroot farming methods is the key to staying competitive and profitable. By adopting innovations like organic and mineral fertilisers, Kenyan farmers can maximise yield, protect the environment, and improve livelihoods.
