How to grow Amaranth (Mchicha/Terere/Ododo) in Kenya

For some interested in growing Amaranth, our article today on how to grow Amaranth in Kenya will give you some tips. Amaranth has different names depending on different tribes.

Different cultures cook amaranth differently, but the demand for amaranth in the country is high as currently, some companies are even buying amaranth seeds to get flour.

 

How to grow Amaranth (Mchicha/Terere/Ododo) in Kenya

For some interested in growing Amaranth, our article today on how to grow Amaranth in Kenya will give you some tips. Amaranth has different names depending on different tribes.  Different cultures cook amaranth differently, but the demand for amaranth in the country is high as currently, some companies are even buying amaranth seeds to get flour.

Best weather conditions to grow Amaranth in Kenya.

To grow amaranth, the important thing is to note that there are different species and each may require different altitudes but the optimal altitude for most species is 0-2000 meters with a cool-warm temperature of between 22-30°C. Like most crops, the best soil is loam soil with lower acidity. The best spacing is 30*10cm and it takes a maximum of 4-6 weeks before maturity. On average one acre can produce up to five thousand kilograms of amaranth. For maximum harvest, one needs to lookout

Finding a market for Amaranth in Kenya

Amaranth seeds can be exported which is very profitable for the farmer. The seeds can also be sold locally to be processed as flour. In situations where the farmer prefers to sell amaranth as a vegetable, the best market is local groceries, restaurants, and shopping outlets.

Find: How to Grow Mushrooms in Kenya

Health benefits of Amaranth (Mchicha/Terere/Doodo)

Amaranth contains nutrients such as

• proteins,
• carbohydrates
• vitamin K
• folate
• riboflavin
• manganese
• iron
• potassium
• copper
• calcium
• vitamin A
• vitamin C and
• Vitamin B6.

The health benefits of Amaranth include:-

• Boost energy level due to the presence of carbohydrates
• It helps the body to develop connective tissue and strengthen bone by improving the rate at which calcium absorption.
• Improves the level of blood in the body by developing red blood cells
• Improves blood clotting factors
• It’s essential for normal brain and nerve function.
• Amaranth contains potassium which regulates the water balance and eventually regulates body’s blood pressure.
• The presence of fiber improves digestion
• Helps in weight reduction and management
• Lowers cholesterol in the body.

Find: Health Benefits of Sukuma Wiki

Best weather conditions to grow Amaranth in Kenya.

To grow amaranth, the important thing is to note that there are different species and each may require different altitudes but the optimal altitude for most species is 0-2000 metres with a cool-warm temperature of between 22-30°C. Like most crops, the best soil is loam soil with a lower acidity. The best spacing is 30*10cm and it takes a maximum of 4-6 weeks before maturity. On average one acre can produce up to five thousand kilograms of amaranth. For maximum harvest one need to lookout

Finding a market for Amaranth in Kenya

Amaranth seeds can be exported which is very profitable for the farmer. The seeds can also be sold locally to be processed as flour. In situations where the farmer prefers to sell amaranth as a vegetable, the best market is local groceries, restaurants, and shopping outlets.

Health benefits of Amaranth (Mchicha/Terere/Doodo)

Amaranth contains nutrients such as

• proteins,
• carbohydrates
• vitamin K
• folate
• riboflavin
• manganese
• iron
• potassium
• copper
• calcium
• vitamin A
• vitamin C and
• Vitamin B6.

The health benefits of Amaranth include:-

• Boost energy level due to the presence of carbohydrates
• It helps the body to develop connective tissue and strengthen bone by improving the rate at which calcium absorption.
• Improves the level of blood in the body by developing red blood cells
• Improves blood clotting factors
• It’s essential for normal brain and nerve function.
• Amaranth contains potassium which regulates the water balance and eventually regulates the body’s blood pressure.
• The presence of fiber improves digestion
• Helps in weight reduction and management
• Lowers cholesterol in the body.