Homestretch Farming

              Written By Peter Otieno Coriander is a green leafy herb popularly known as dhania in Kenya and is used as a spice in stews and kachumbari. Kachumbari is a salad made by mixing freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, chili pepper and coriander leaves. It has a pleasant aroma and adds flavor to foods which makes it a favorite spice. Coriander has a short period of maturity that is from six to eight weeks and can easily be grown in pots and buckets apart from the farm. It grows in well drained soil and requires enough sunlight and water for germination. Dhania's flexibility allows it to be grown in different ways which include: 1. In pots and buckets - this is suitable for persons who live in urban centers and have a small space. 2. In green houses - for farmers who are into large scale and commercial farming. 3. In seedbeds - for small scale farmers and individuals that grow for home consumption. In this article, we will focus on growing coriander in a seedbed. The steps are

 Written by Peter Otieno                                                                                                                      In today's world where there is a multitude of information concerning agricultural best practices and farming methods, not many farmers and individuals understand how to make compost manure. The use of inorganic fertilizer is the trend as it saves time and results come faster on your farm. On the other hand, compost manure allows plants to absorb nutrients gradually but it is vital in the long run if used continuously and regularly. What is Compost Manure? Compost manure is an organic fertilizer made from farm waste, animal manure and plant materials no longer in use. Composting is the process whereby you pile farm waste, animal manure and plant materials in a pit to allow for decomposition which is done by worms and maggots. Compost manure provides essential nutrients to crops, increases soil fertility, enhances moisture retention and increa

  Hey, do you know that over the years animals have managed to build a closer relationship with human beings even with continuous industrialization, climate change and technology advancement. This is why you and I now refer to them as family members or use a common term, a pet. Whichever place you are, in the countryside or urban centers,you can identify with these animals whether big or small. These animals now have names,we shelter and some people dress them. They are beneficial to us in so many ways. An important thing to do is to ensure they feel loved, happy and comfortable. Now here is my list. Chicken There are common birds in many homes and breeds like Kenbro, Isa Brown, Leghorn, Kuroiler and Silkie. For a start you do not need a big number. The prices are fair and a cock or hen fetches not more than 1000 Kenya shillings, so you can start with about five or ten chickens. Why You Need Chicken At about twenty weeks they will begin laying eggs. If you have a large flock you can se

By Peter Otieno. It is popularly known as "Kitunguu" in Kenya. Scallions, Green or Bunching onion is a type of onion which does not form a bulb. It has a tube-like structure with a white reddish color from its root towards middle part of the stem and a green color from middle of stem to its tip. Scallions grow well in drained fertile soils and full sunlight. They are great in food recipe and salads. Scallions contain vitamin C for healthy strong bones. They help in preventing flu or cold due to their antibacterial properties. Green onions have vitamin A and C that help strengthen body immunity. In addition, green onions contain fiber which enhances food digestion, furthermore improve blood circulation and help regulate blood sugar levels. As I delve into the steps, keep in mind we are not using seeds. Sourcing Direct From The Market: After you have prepared your garden or land, visit a market near you and buy fresh bunches of scallions from vendors and ensure they haven't