Potato is a starchy root tuber vegetable that is consumed as a staple food. Potato farming is the most profitable farming business in Nyandarua County.
The plant has branched stems and leaves consisting of leaflets that are both unequal in size and shape. It grows well in cool highland areas, where the temperature and rainfall are suitable for the plant.
On the first day of Potato International Day, James Biringo, who was one of the hosts, shed some light on varieties of potatoes to the farmers and stakeholders in attendance. He said that there are many varieties, but the most common are the Shangi potato and the Kenya Karibu potato.
The Shangi potato variety is unique and has attracted many breeders and experts. It can be identified by its cream-white flesh and shallow to medium-pink eyes. It grows in 90 days, so it can be harvested before it reaches full maturity. This makes it famous for its minimal dormancy because farmers can replant it within three weeks.
“Shangi potato has captured the curiosity of breeding experts because of its very short dormancy. It can be harvested as early as three weeks after planting it and still produce a yield of thirty to forty tonnes,” he said.
He mentioned that Kenya Karibu is another potato variety. It grows tall, slightly above 1 metre in height, with strong stems and dark green, narrow, pointed leaves. Flowers a lot, and the flowers are pink in color. This potato matures for three to four months, has smooth red skin, and is disease-resistant. It’s good for chipping, crisping, boiling, and mashing.
“Kenya Karibu potato has a longer latency period compared to other varieties. It grows tall with sturdy stems and dark green, narrow, pointed leaves. The plant produces many pink flowers and has a red skin. Its quality makes it easy to be mashed, boiled, crisped, and chipped,” he mentioned.
He added that potato commercialization can provide farmers with income and a source of economic welfare. Thus, farmers should increase market participation, maximise yields, and expand production to improve their income levels. This will raise their living standards and provide employment opportunities for other members of society.
“Potato commercialization is important as it gives farmers a way of making an income and improves their economic welfare. This elevates living standards and gives other community members employment opportunities,” he added.
In conclusion, as a potato farmer, one should not practice this for only subsistence use. Today’s market has provided avenues for one to make an income from potato farming, as they are used for various functions. They are used to make medicine for diabetes, high blood pressure, and indigestion. Potatoes also make pancakes, dumplings, soups, and salads.
By Sarah Mong’ina
