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French Beans Farming Guide: Tips for High Yields and Profitable Production

French beans are one of Kenya’s major export crops, and local consumption is steadily increasing. This versatile vegetable is grown by both large-scale and smallholder farmers, prized for its nutritional value and market demand. Also known as snap beans or green beans, French beans are harvested while still immature and tender, making them ideal for fresh consumption, canning, or freezing.
French beans

For farmers, the potential is lucrative: one acre of French beans can yield up to 4 tons. At an average market price of Ksh 60 per kilo, a farmer can earn approximately Ksh 240,000 per acre per season.

Why Grow French Beans

French beans are labor-intensive but highly rewarding. They are best suited for small-scale farming with staggered planting, which allows for continuous harvesting and better labor management. The crop performs well in both fresh markets and for processing, making it a versatile option for farmers looking to diversify their produce.

Ideal Growing Conditions

  • Temperature: 20–25°C

  • Altitude: 1,000–2,100 meters above sea level

  • Rainfall: 900–1,200 mm per year (well-distributed)

While French beans can grow under rain-fed conditions, supplementary irrigation is essential for year-round production, especially during dry periods.

Soil requirements:

  • Well-drained silty loams or heavy clay soils

  • High organic matter content

  • Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5)

Popular French Bean Varieties in Kenya

Market demand largely determines the varieties grown. Common varieties include:

  • Monel: High-yielding, long picking period, grayish-green, straight, fleshy pods, purple flowers, black seeds.

  • Gloria, Claudia, Morgan, Amy, Coby, Espada Maasai, Samantha, Paulista, Nerina

Certified seeds are recommended, with a seed rate of 50–60 kg per hectare.

Planting Guide

  • Land preparation: Plough and harrow thoroughly for a fine seedbed.

  • Planting method:

    • Single rows: 30 × 15 cm

    • Double rows: 60 × 30 × 10 cm, one seed per hole

  • Growth timeline: First picking occurs 45–50 days after planting.

Fertilization and Nutrition

For optimal growth and high yields:

  • Poor soils: Apply 10 tons/ha of farmyard manure in planting furrows.

  • Basal fertilizer: 200 kg/ha of DAP in planting furrows.

  • Top dressing:

    • 100 kg CAN at the three-leaf stage

    • Second application at flowering onset

  • Foliar feeding: Apply fortnightly from the fourth week to mid-podding. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which favors leaf growth over pods.

Irrigation and Water Management

Regular watering is crucial:

  • Water is critical at flowering; stress can reduce yields.

  • Avoid waterlogging.

  • Recommended water application:

    • 35 mm/week from planting to 10 days after germination

    • 50 mm/week until flowering

Weed, Pest, and Disease Management

  • Weed control: Timely weeding ensures uniform growth and high-quality pods.

  • Major pests and diseases: Fungal infections, insects, and nematodes.

  • Management practices: Use certified seeds, field hygiene, crop rotation, and recommended pesticides.

Harvesting and Marketing

French beans are harvested while the pods are tender and immature. Staggered planting ensures a continuous supply for local and export markets, with the main export season spanning October to May. Proper handling post-harvest preserves quality and maximizes returns.

Final Tips

  • Stagger planting for continuous production

  • Use certified seeds for healthy crops

  • Apply proper fertilization and irrigation practices

  • Monitor pests and diseases regularly

  • Harvest at the right stage to meet market standards

With careful planning and proper management, French bean farming can be a highly profitable venture for Kenyan farmers.

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