Mint
High-value aromatic herb with exceptional market demand for culinary, medicinal, and essential oil production. Export potential to Europe and growing local demand.
Growing Requirements
climate
- Moderate climate preferred
- Temperature: 15-30°C optimal
- Rainfall 600-1200mm annually
Task Timeline
Total cycle duration: 90-120 days to first harvest, then every 30-40 days
Investment & Returns
Costs Breakdown
| Category | Amount (KSh) |
|---|---|
Planting Material Per acre | 12,000 |
Land Preparation Per acre | 8,000 |
Irrigation Setup Per acre | 25,000 |
Fertilizers Per acre per year | 18,000 |
Pest Control Per acre per year | 12,000 |
Labor Per acre per year | 35,000 |
Processing & Packaging Per acre per year | 15,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 125,000 |
* Costs may vary based on location, season, and market conditions.
Expected Returns
Yield
3-6 tons fresh leaves per acre annually
Price Range
KSh 500 - 1,500
Seasonality
Year-round production with proper irrigation
Common Challenges
Rust Disease
Fungal disease affecting leaf quality and essential oil content
SOLUTIONS
- •Good air circulation
- •Resistant varieties
- •Preventive fungicide treatment
- •Proper spacing
Market Fluctuations
Price variations based on season and supply-demand dynamics
SOLUTIONS
- •Value addition through drying
- •Contract farming
- •Direct export connections
- •Essential oil extraction
Invasive Growth
Mint can spread aggressively and take over other crops
SOLUTIONS
- •Controlled planting areas
- •Regular pruning
- •Barrier systems
- •Planned field rotation
Market Information
Potential Buyers
Export Companies
Price: KSh 1000-1500 per kg
Requirements: Organic certification preferred, Large volumes, Consistent supply, GAP compliance
Restaurants & Hotels
Price: KSh 600-1200 per kg
Requirements: Fresh, clean leaves, Consistent supply, Quality grading, Food safety standards
Supermarkets
Price: KSh 500-900 per kg
Requirements: Proper packaging, Regular supply, Brand compliance, Quality consistency
Essential Oil Processors
Price: KSh 400-700 per kg
Requirements: High oil content, Bulk volumes, Timed harvesting, Processing contracts
Value Addition Opportunities
Essential Oil Extraction
Potential Return: 500-1000% markup
Investment: Medium
Dried Mint Products
Potential Return: 300-400% markup
Investment: Low
Fresh-cut Packaging
Potential Return: 150-250% markup
Investment: Low
Plan Your Mint 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 mint farm.
Step 2: Create Business Plan
Develop a detailed plan covering costs, expected returns, market strategy, and risk management for your mint 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 Mint.