Greenhouse for Capsicum farming in Kenya

The cost of a greenhouse for capsicum farming in Kenya depends on the size of the structure. For a greenhouse measuring 16 m by 45 m you will spend KES 950,000 – 1,200,000 for the structure. Other expenses include capsicum seedlings at approximately KES 35,000 – KES 37,000 for the same greenhouse size.

We construct wooden and metallic greenhouses for capsicum and other high-value crop farming. Our greenhouses vary in size according to the goals of your production, from a small size of 8 m by 15 m to a large one of 16 m by 45 m.

Reach out to us: Call 0790719020

Key Takeaways

• Greenhouses are ideal for high yield of hybrid capsicum varieties such California wonder, Pasarella F1, Golden Sun and Batian F
• Capsicum spacing should be 30 cm between plants and 60 cm between rows.
• Proper irrigation, spacing and management is key for high yield.
• Capsicum seedlings are ready for transplanting after 4–5 weeks.
• Harvest begins 63–90 days after transplanting depending on the variety.
• Each plant can produce up to 5 kg of capsicum.
• With good management, capsicum farming is highly profitable.

Why a greenhouse is essential for capsicum farming in Kenya

Capsicum (Pilipili Hoho) has a high demand in hotels, supermarkets, and export markets due to its popular use in cooking. Capsicum farming in Kenya is one of the agribusiness ventures with high returns on investment. The yield of capsicum grown in a greenhouse is often high and the yield attracts high market price (KES 50 to KES 110 per kg).

For efficient crop production in a greenhouse, you must have reliable water access and a sufficient land with fertile soil.

Conditions for Growing Capsicum

• Temperature: 15° C – 30° C.
• Soil type: well drained, loam soil rich in organic matter.
• Soil PH: 5.5 to 6.8
• Water needs: 600-1200mm per season.

What Makes Capsicum Convenient to Cultivate in a greenhouse?

• Short maturity cycle: Most F1 varieties mature within 65–90 days after transplanting.
• High yields: Good management can produce 25–30 tons per acre in open fields and up to 60 tons in greenhouses.
• High value crop: Coloured capsicums (red, yellow, orange) attract high market prices.

Greenhouse for Capsicum Farming: Hybrid Varieties in Kenya

Greenhouse with Pasarella F1 Capsicum variety almost ready for harvest.

• California Wonder – characterized by large, red and sweet bell peppers.
• Passarella F1 – does well in greenhouse environment and matures early.
• Yolo Wonder – has high yield and large juicy fruit that turn red once fully ripen.
• Golden Sun – yields yellow thick and juicy capsicum fruit.
• Batian F1 – often develops large fruits f
• Admiral F1 – performs well in both field and greenhouse environment. High and less prone bacterial wilt.

How to grow Capsicum in a greenhouse

Greenhouses for capsicum farming in Kenya have different designs as climate conditions of your region. You can use tunnel greenhouse design for extremely hot areas and flat-roofed designs for areas with moderate heat.

Preparing your Greenhouse for Capsicum Farming

Farm layout

The greenhouse environment is often cultivated and raised beds prepared for growing capsicum.

Each bed measures 1m wide and are spaced 30 cm apart to leave a walking space in between.

Greenhouse preparation for capsicum farming

Irrigation

After complete installation of the greenhouse, we often set up a drip irrigation system. Capsicum requires 2 driplines per bed to allow for uniform watering, growth and air flow.

Irrigation should be done 3 times a week and increased in critical stages such as fruit development.

Capsicum Spacing in a Greenhouse

The appropriate spacing of capsicum plants in a greenhouse is 30cm. Row spacing often takes 60 cm.

Planting capsicum in a greenhouse

Plant Population

The number of capsicum plants depends on the size of your greenhouse. For 16m by 45m greenhouse, you can grow approximately 2,500 capsicum plants.

Recommended Seedlings

For success in capsicum farming, you need to grow hybrid capsicum varieties. Hybrid varieties are resistant to diseases and have high yield.

The hybrid capsicum seedlings are propagated and sold by many vendors. We have recommended Pasarella F1 variety for one of our clients and it turned out doing well.

However, you can propagate your own hybrid seedlings. Follow the steps below to raise seedlings:

1. Prepare a sterilized nursery bed or seed tray
2. Sow seeds shallowly
3. Cover lightly with soil
4. Water regularly

Capsicum seeds usually take 7–14 days to germinate under good conditions. Seedlings are usually ready for transplanting after 4–5 weeks.

How Long Do Capsicum Take to Mature?

Capsicum cultivated inside greenhouses often take 2 – 3 months to mature after transplanting. You can harvest after every two weeks once production cycle begins.

How Many Capsicum Fruits Per Plant?

When proper management and irrigation practices are observed, each plant can yield 4 – 5 kg fruits every week.

The number of fruits produced per plant varies depending on:

• the Variety grown
• Fertilizer application rate
• Water application
• Pest management

Hybrid varieties typically produce larger fruits with thicker walls, making them suitable for commercial markets.

Pest and Disease Management

Capsicum plants are susceptible to several pests and diseases.

Common Diseases indiseases

• Powdery mildew
• Bacterial Wilt
• Leaf spot
• Blight

Tips for Success in Capsicum Farming

• Crop rotation: after harvesting and removing capsicum, grow cereals or legumes to enhance soil degeneration.
• Mix soil with compost manure before planting to enhance soil organic matter content.
• Conduct proper soil test before cultivation to prevent diseases such as fusarium. Use grow bags if the soil is infected.
• Collect rainwater during the rainy seasons to boost water needs in dry periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to build a greenhouse in Kenya?

KES 165,000 – KES 1,200,000 depending on the size.

2. How long do capsicum take to mature?

63–90 days after transplanting.

3. What is the best spacing for capsicum plants?

Recommended spacing is 30 cm between plants and 60 between rows.

4. Should I water my pepper plants every day?

Water 2 – 3 times a week.

5. How much is 1 kg of capsicum?

KES 50 – 120.

6. Is capsicum farming profitable in Kenya?

Yes. With yields of 25–30 tons per acre, farmers can earn millions depending on market prices.

7. What are the best capsicum F1 varieties in Kenya?

Pasarella F1, Golden Sun, California Wonder, Admiral F1 and Batian F1.

8. Can capsicum be grown in a greenhouse?

Yes. Capsicum cultivation in a greenhouse has higher yield compared to open field.

9. How long do capsicum seeds take to germinate?

7–14 days.

10. Where can I buy a greenhouse for Capsicum farming in Kenya?

Aqua Hub Kenya.