Air Yams
High-value climbing crop producing edible aerial tubers with exceptional profitability potential. Known as 'silent money maker' in Kenya.
Growing Requirements
climate
- Warm, humid conditions
- Temperature: 20-30°C
- Moderate rainfall or irrigation
- Tolerates dry conditions
Task Timeline
Total cycle duration: 6-12 months
Investment & Returns
Costs Breakdown
| Category | Amount (KSh) |
|---|---|
Planting Material Per acre | 25,000 |
Support Structures Per acre | 40,000 |
Land Preparation Per acre | 15,000 |
Labor Per acre per year | 30,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 110,000 |
* Costs may vary based on location, season, and market conditions.
Expected Returns
Yield
15-25 tons per acre (19,500 bulbils potential)
Price Range
KSh 100 - 250
Seasonality
Annual production with excellent storage potential
Common Challenges
Anthracnose
Fungal disease causing dark brown to black leaf spots and bulbil rot. Most serious disease affecting yield.
SOLUTIONS
- •Good air circulation
- •Fungicide application during wet seasons
- •Remove infected plant material
- •Avoid overhead irrigation
Virus Diseases
Yam mosaic virus causing leaf distortion and reduced vigor.
SOLUTIONS
- •Use disease-free planting material
- •Control aphid vectors
- •Remove infected plants
Weeds
Competition for nutrients and water, especially during establishment.
SOLUTIONS
- •Regular weeding
- •Mulching
- •Proper spacing
Market Information
Potential Buyers
Local Markets
Price: KSh 100-150 per kg (consumption)
Requirements: Quality bulbils, Proper sizing, Fresh appearance
Seed Market
Price: KSh 200-250 per kg (planting material)
Requirements: High quality planting material, Disease-free bulbils, Proper storage
Export Markets
Price: KSh 180-300 per kg
Requirements: Premium quality, Proper packaging, Phytosanitary certification
Value Addition Opportunities
Dried Chips
Potential Return: 200-300% markup
Investment: Medium
Flour Production
Potential Return: 300-400% markup
Investment: High
Plan Your Air Yams Project
Transform your knowledge into action with these practical next steps
Step 1: Assess Resources
Evaluate your land, water access, initial capital, and labor availability before starting your air yams farm.
Step 2: Create Business Plan
Develop a detailed plan covering costs, expected returns, market strategy, and risk management for your air yams farm.
Step 3: Implementation Timeline
Create a schedule for land preparation, planting, maintenance, and harvesting to align with optimal growing seasons.
Unlock Your Farm's Potential
Take the next step. Get expert guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals for growing Air Yams.