Basil
Premium culinary herb with exceptional export potential. Kenya supplies 80% of Europe's basil when Italian production is affected by climate challenges.
Growing Requirements
climate
- Warm tropical to subtropical conditions
- Temperature: 18-30°C optimal
- Protect from frost and strong winds
- Requires 6-8 hours sunlight daily
Task Timeline
Total cycle duration: 25-30 days to first harvest
Investment & Returns
Costs Breakdown
| Category | Amount (KSh) |
|---|---|
Seeds Per acre | 5,000 |
Nursery Setup Per acre | 10,000 |
Field Preparation Per acre | 10,000 |
Fertilizers & Chemicals Per acre per year | 15,000 |
Labor Per acre per year | 40,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 80,000 |
* Costs may vary based on location, season, and market conditions.
Expected Returns
Yield
2-4 tons fresh leaves per acre annually
Price Range
KSh 1,000 - 4,000
Seasonality
Year-round production with proper management
Common Challenges
Basil Downy Mildew (Peronospora belbahrii)
Most serious disease causing yellowing, leaf curling, and dark sporulation on leaf undersides. Can destroy entire crops.
SOLUTIONS
- •Use pathogen-free certified seeds
- •Drip irrigation to avoid wetting leaves
- •Good air circulation
- •Apply preventive fungicides
- •Remove infected plants immediately
- •Steam-treated seeds
Fusarium Wilt
Soil-borne fungal disease causing wilting, brown stem streaks, and plant death. No cure once infected.
SOLUTIONS
- •Use resistant varieties
- •Crop rotation (avoid basil/mint for 2-3 years)
- •Good drainage
- •Remove infected plants
- •Use disease-free soil and seeds
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial disease causing black/brown spots on leaves and stem streaking.
SOLUTIONS
- •Prevent soil splashing on leaves
- •Good air circulation
- •Avoid overhead irrigation
- •Copper-based bactericides
- •Remove infected plant material
Market Information
Potential Buyers
Export Markets (Primary)
Price: €2.50-4.00 per kg FOB Nairobi (KSh 350-550 per kg)
Requirements: Premium quality, Proper drying/processing, KEPHIS certification, Consistent supply
Local Supermarkets
Price: KSh 50-80 per bunch (50g)
Requirements: Fresh, aromatic leaves, Multiple varieties, Consistent quality, Proper packaging
Gourmet Restaurants & Hotels
Price: KSh 100-200 per bunch
Requirements: Fresh herbs, High aroma, Year-round supply, Multiple varieties
Processing Companies
Price: KSh 300-600 per kg fresh weight
Requirements: Bulk quantities, Consistent quality, Organic certification preferred
Value Addition Opportunities
Dried Herb Processing
Potential Return: 400-600% markup
Investment: Low
Essential Oil Extraction
Potential Return: 800-1200% markup
Investment: High
Frozen Fresh Herbs
Potential Return: 200-300% markup
Investment: Medium
Plan Your Basil 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 basil farm.
Step 2: Create Business Plan
Develop a detailed plan covering costs, expected returns, market strategy, and risk management for your basil 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 Basil.