Mushroom farming is one of the profitable ventures in Kenya, yet its production locally remains far below the national demand.

As such, the country is forced to rely on imports to bridge the deficit. According to expert farmer Jackton Onyango Otieno, mushroom farming requires a low starting capital and its returns are higher compared to some agribusinesses.

The co-founder of Eldoret Mushrooms says he stepped into the venture over three decades ago with experience gained from his previous job as a farm hand on a mushroom farm.

He notes that for profitable mushroom farming, one needs to observe proper farming practices with the help of professionals.

Onyango says with proper cultivation, skills, and market, mushroom farming can yield good returns.

Among the most important things he says should be correctly observed include preparing the substrate and temperature monitoring in the grow houses.

Short season indigenous vegetables earning Vihiga farmers up to Sh25,000 daily

“Mushrooms are versatile, and the good news is that they can grow in any part of the country. The main conditions mushrooms require to grow are a reliable water supply, shelter, and stable temperature ranging from 15 to 30 degrees,” he says, as quoted by Qazini.

The farmer notes that Button mushrooms are the most popular in Kenya, and demand is always high.

Further, farmers who grow them don’t need a big space, as the crop can do well in a very little space.

In terms of returns, Onyango says a farmer can become a millionaire in two months, adding that a quarter of an acre can yield 1000 kilograms, with a kilogram going for up to Sh600 Kenyan Shillings.

Button mushrooms only need two months to develop. The venture promises higher returns with a ready market.

In Kenya, mushrooms are sold at large grocery outlets for between Sh 400 and Sh600 per kg, and Sh500 per kg from Individual vendors.