As Kenyan farmers continue to adopt new crops to boost their earnings in less exploited ventures, one farmer has defied the odds and introduced one of the rare tubers in Kenya.

Dr Muriithi Matu grows the Peruvian Ground Apple popularly known as Yacon on his farm in Maston village along the slopes of Mt Kenya, a journey he started in 2021.

Yacon farming which is still in its infancy is steadily gaining popularity due to its nutritional value, medicinal properties, and potential for commercial cultivation.

The crop that is usually grown in South America is a good source of vitamins, including vitamin C and B-complex vitamins, as well as minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

Yacon is also said to have the ability to regulate blood sugar levels as well as reduce appetite for those wishing to cut weight. Its leaves are also used as vegetables as they are delicious and medicinal.

According to Muriithi, the leaves require a lot of care to protect them from diseases and pests such as aphids, cutworms, whiteflies, root rot, and powdery dew, among others.

The crop’s multiple benefits make it attractive in the international market. The tuber can grow up to a four kilogrammes in seven months, with an acre of land estimated to yield 24 tonnes of the crop.

“Land preparation is tricky as ploughing is banned as it could injure the tubers,” Muriithi said, adding that mulching is encouraged for water conservation and to suppress weeds growing between the plants.

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Yacon farming in Kenya

Yacon is best planted at the onset of the rainy season. The crop requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season, especially during the tuber formation stage.

In areas with irregular rainfall, supplemental irrigation may be necessary to ensure optimal growth. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.

Organic fertilization is recommended with farmers advised to apply organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, which provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure.

A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) can also be applied to promote healthy growth. Excess nitrogen can however lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of tuber development.

The crop takes approximately 6 to 7 months to mature after planting. Some signs of maturity include yellowing and drying of leaves.

The crop can be sold locally or in international markets particularly in Europe, North America, and Asia, where demand for exotic and functional foods is high.

It can be sold as yacon tubers or  value-added products such as yacon syrup and powder.

In the local market, a kilogramme of the tuber fetches above Sh500, depending on the market. Yacon can be eaten raw, or used in making juice for market or domestic purposes.

Muriithi advised that eating the fruit raw is the best way to consume it after first peeling just like potatoes.