Avocado
Kenya's leading horticultural export crop with exceptional profit potential. Main varieties include Hass and Fuerte with strong international demand.
Growing Requirements
climate
- Optimal temperature: 20-28°C
- Annual rainfall: 1000-1200mm
- Elevation: 1000-2100m above sea level
- Moderate humidity
Task Timeline
Total cycle duration: 3-4 years to production
Investment & Returns
Costs Breakdown
| Category | Amount (KSh) |
|---|---|
Certified Seedlings Per acre | 60,000 |
Land Preparation Per acre | 30,000 |
Irrigation System Per acre | 120,000 |
Annual Maintenance Per acre per year | 50,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 260,000 |
* Costs may vary based on location, season, and market conditions.
Expected Returns
Yield
8-20 tons per acre (mature trees)
Price Range
KSh 10 - 200
Seasonality
Two main seasons: March-August and October-December
Common Challenges
Anthracnose
Most devastating disease causing 60% losses. Affects fruits, leaves, and stems with dark brown/black spots and post-harvest rot.
SOLUTIONS
- •Fungicide application (copper-based)
- •Good orchard hygiene
- •Proper post-harvest handling
- •Remove diseased plant material
- •Improve air circulation through pruning
Phytophthora Root Rot
Serious soil-borne disease causing yellowing leaves, wilting, and tree death.
SOLUTIONS
- •Well-drained soils
- •Avoid waterlogging
- •Resistant rootstocks
- •Proper irrigation management
- •Soil fumigation if severe
Quality Standards
Export markets require strict quality standards and certification.
SOLUTIONS
- •KEPHIS certification
- •Proper harvest timing
- •Cold chain management
- •Quality sorting and packaging
Market Information
Potential Buyers
Export Markets (Primary)
Price: KSh 200 per 4kg carton (KSh 50/kg export price)
Requirements: KEPHIS certification, Minimum 184g fruit size, Premium quality, Proper cold chain
Local Wholesale
Price: KSh 10-17 per piece (Hass), KSh 8-30 per kg
Requirements: Good quality, Consistent supply, Proper sizing
Retail Markets
Price: KSh 20-50 per piece depending on size and season
Requirements: Quality fruits, Proper ripeness, Good presentation
Processing Industry
Price: KSh 30-60 per kg
Requirements: Consistent supply, Lower grade acceptable, Bulk quantities
Value Addition Opportunities
Avocado Oil Extraction
Potential Return: 300-500% markup
Investment: High
Frozen Avocado Products
Potential Return: 200-300% markup
Investment: Medium
Plan Your Avocado 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 avocado farm.
Step 2: Create Business Plan
Develop a detailed plan covering costs, expected returns, market strategy, and risk management for your avocado 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 Avocado.