If you are thinking of exploring the potential of pixie oranges, then you are on the right track. Pixie oranges are a cross between oranges and tangerines. The fruit is seedless, yellow-orange in colour and easy to peel. With proper care and maintenance, pixie oranges will fetch you reasonable prices in the local and export markets. Therefore, how are pixie oranges grown in Kenya?
Pixie oranges have a refreshing scent and are a lot juicer compared to the ordinary large oranges. This has led to the fruit’s popularity among Kenyans. Consequently, farmers are taking advantage of the rising demand by growing their acreage of pixie oranges. So, how long does the fruit take to mature, what is the expected yield and profitability?
How to grow pixie oranges in Kenya
Every pixie orange farmer should know the correct procedure for planting this nutritious fruit to enhance their yield. Here is a general guide on how to grow these highly nutritious fruits in Kenya.
Land preparation
The first step is to remove all debris and unwanted vegetation. The easiest methods of preparing land for the fruit’s cultivation include ploughing, levelling, and clearing.
Soil Testing
At this stage, farmers determine whether the pH is suitable for fruit production. Soil testing also helps a farmer detect the soil’s ability to resist soil-borne diseases. The ideal soil requirement for planting pixie oranges is a pH value between 6.0 and 6.5.
Planting
After preparing the land and conducting a comprehensive soil test, it is time to plant your pixie orange seedlings. Start by digging a 2m by 2m hole, mixing the topsoil with well-rotted manure, and backfilling the hole with the soil.Â
The correct spacing of pixie orange trees is 4 meters between trees and 5 meters between rows, which gives each tree about 625 square meters of space. The trees grow vigorously and have ascending branches with large leaves. Therefore, the lines should run East to West to allow enough sunlight to penetrate, especially during fruiting.
Irrigation
These fruits require regular watering to survive. Drip irrigation is the most efficient method, as it slowly applies water to the plant’s root zone without runoff and wastage.
Fertilisation
At least 20kg of well-rotted farmyard manure or compost should be applied per tree per year, along with a handful of rock phosphate. On acid soils, 1-2kg of agricultural lime can be used per tree by spreading evenly over the soil to cover the root system.Â
Pruning
Remove any dead or diseased branches at this level and shape the trees to your desired form. Pruning your pixie orange trees is essential for growth and productivity.
How long do pixie oranges take to mature?
The exact duration will depend on your management practices and climatic conditions. However, pixie oranges are usually ready for harvest in two to three years. Each tree can produce 30 to 100 fruits within its second year of growth. You should expect higher yields as the tree matures.
Where are pixie oranges grown in Kenya?
Pixie orange farming is mainly practised in arid and semi-arid areas in Kenya. Makueni County is the current leading producer of this seedless fruit. Other regions in Kenya that are well-suited for the crop include Machakos, Kitui and Voi. The crop also performs well in areas such as Nyeri, Murang’a, and western Kenya.
What are the benefits of pixie oranges?
Like other citrus fruits, pixie oranges are rich in vitamins A and C. The health benefits of the nutrients found in them include:
- Help in healing wounds.
- They are rich in fibres
- Boosts heart health
- Help reduce bad cholesterol and the development of good cholesterol.
- It helps in maintaining normal blood pressure.
- They lead to a reduction in the risk of developing liver and breast cancer.
- Vitamin C helps in preventing colds.
- They help maintain healthy-looking and glowing skin.
What is the difference between pixie oranges and tangerines?
The main difference between a pixie orange and a tangerine is size. Tangerines are smaller, less round, and flat. They have a more reddish-orange colour. Another distinction is that ripe tangerines are softer to the touch, whereas pixie oranges are a bit firm and heavy when ripe.
How much are pixie orange seedlings in Kenya?
According to Farmers trend, each grafted pixie orange seedling is worth Ksh. 250. Getting your seedlings from certified nurseries is advisable to ensure the quality is high to achieve the highest yield.
How many pixie oranges per acre in Kenya?
Depending on the spacing, an acre accommodates about 200 to 270 pixie orange trees. The recommended spacing is 4 meters by 5 meters.
Is pixie farming profitable in Kenya?
According to Rich Farm Kenya, an acre can give returns of up to Ksh. 1.2 million per year. Assuming you plant 270 pixie orange trees per acre and each tree yields 60 kg of fruits annually, you can sell each kilo at Ksh.80 and earn yourself 1.2 million.
The total amount you are likely to spend on the expenses can be calculated as follows:
Initial capital
270 Seedlings × Ksh. 250= 67,500
Planting labour- Ksh. 33,000
Maintenance and pest control- Ksh.50,000
This gives a total of Ksh.150 000.
Wrapping up
With the above information, you can now tap into the market potential of this nutritious fruit. Remember to space your pixie oranges correctly and apply proper maintenance practices, from pruning to irrigation and pest control.
