All You Need To Know About Tree Tomato Farming in Kenya

Introduction to Tree Tomato Farming in Kenya

Tree tomato farming is now an appealing business in Kenya. Tree tomato farming in Kenya allows farmers to participate in both local and international market. This subtropical fruit, Solanum betaceum, also referred to as Tamarillo is in high demand by health enthusiasts and food processors. In Kenya, tree tomatoes grow best in Migori, Kisii, Meru, Embu, Murang’a, and Nyeri. These regions have favorable climatic and soil conditions for cultivation. There is a good market for tree tomatoes and their juice which guarantees good returns for both small-scale and commercial farmers.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of tree tomato farming, including:

• Selection and preparation of suitable varieties
• Essential soil and climate requirements
• Step-by-step planting and propagation techniques
• Crucial field management practices
• Effective pest and disease control
• Proper harvesting and post-harvest handling
• Market opportunities and value addition

Understanding Tree Tomatoes

Tree tomatoes, also known as tamarillos, are small, woody plants from the nightshade family. Unlike regular tomatoes that grow on vines, tree tomatoes take the form of small trees or bushes. They can grow between 2 to 5 meters tall. Their shallow roots often need support, such as staking or windbreaks, especially in windy conditions.

Plant Characteristics:

• Grows as a woody perennial tree reaching 2-5 meters in height
• Features large, soft leaves with a distinctive aroma when crushed
• Produces pink to light-purple self-pollinating flowers
• Develops oval-shaped fruits (4-10 cm long) in various colors from red to yellow
• Contains juicy, seed-filled pulp with edible but firm seeds

Key Growth Features:

• Matures quickly, bearing fruit within 8-12 months after planting
• Maintains productivity for 6-12 years
• Reaches peak production during years 4-6
• Requires staking or windbreaks due to shallow root system

Differences from Conventional Tomatoes

• Growth Habit: Unlike ordinary tomatoes that grow on bushes or vines, tree tomatoes grow on a wooden stem that makes them look like a perennial tree.
• Lifespan: Typically, tomatoes live for a period of 3 to 6 months, but tree tomatoes bear fruit for as long as 12 years; the sweet spot is between 4 to 6 years.
• Fruit Structure: Tree tomatoes carry a tougher skin and a firmer texture when compared to the soft and easily bruised structure of ordinary tomatoes.
• Taste and Usage: Tree tomatoes taste tangy with an undertone of sweet and sour, while delicious tomatoes taste soft and savory. Tree tomatoes are used to make juices, jams, and sauces but are mainly eaten raw. Regular tomatoes are popular because they are used widely for cooking.
• Growing Conditions: Tree tomatoes prefer the cooler climates in high rise regions about 1500 to 3000 meters above sea level. Ordinary tomatoes, on the other hand, are more resilient and adjustable to different climatic zones.

Common Uses of Tree Tomatoes in Kenya

• Fresh Consumption: People eat tree tomatoes raw. They enjoy them whole or sliced, often with sugar or salt.
• Juice Production: The fruit is popular in fresh juice. It’s usually blended with passion fruit or oranges to balance its tangy taste.
• Jams and Sauces: Pulp from tree tomatoes is made into jams, chutneys, and sauces. These offer a unique sweet-acidic flavor.
• Salads and Smoothies: Sliced tree tomatoes enhance salads. Their pulp is also used in smoothies for extra nutrition.
• Cooking Ingredient: In many Kenyan homes, tree tomato puree serves as a soup and stew base, much like regular tomatoes.
• Health and Wellness Products: With high antioxidants and vitamins, tree tomatoes fit well in health diets. They help boost immunity, improve digestion, and regulate blood pressure.
• Export Market: International demand for tree tomatoes is rising. This trend makes them a profitable export for Kenyan farmers.

Varieties of Tree Tomato Farming

1. Red Tree Tomato

This is the most popular variety in Kenya. It has a deep red skin and bright orange-red flesh, with a tangy, slightly sweet taste. People often eat it fresh, or use it for juice, jams, and sauces. The red tree tomato is valued for its high juice content and vibrant colour.

2. Gold or Yellow Tree Tomato

This variety bears yellow or golden fruits. Its taste is milder and sweeter than the red type. With softer skin and lower acidity, it’s perfect for salads and fresh eating. Though less common, it has a growing market among health-conscious consumers.

3. Orange Tree Tomato

The orange variety offers a balance between sweet and tangy flavors. It’s great for juices, smoothies, and eating fresh. High in vitamin C, it appeals to many looking for nutritious options.

4. Purple Tree Tomato

This rare variety features dark purple skin with a deep red interior. Its unique, slightly tart flavor is rich in antioxidants. Grown mainly for niche markets, it’s sought after by specialty fruit processors.

Ecological Requirements for Tree Tomato Farming

Successful tree tomato cultivation depends on specific environmental conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key ecological requirements:

Relevant Tables:

Aspect	Details
Optimal Altitude	1,500 to 3,000 meters above sea level
Ideal Temperature	15°C to 20°C
Soil pH Range	5.0 to 8.5
Annual Rainfall	1,000 to 1,800 mm, well-distributed throughout the year
Spacing Requirements	4 feet (1.2 meters) between plants; 5 feet (1.5 meters) between rows
Maturity Period	8 to 12 months after planting
Productive Lifespan	6 to 12 years, with peak production between 4 to 6 years

Climate Conditions:

• Optimal altitude range: 1,500 to 3,000 meters above sea level
• Temperature requirements: 15-20°C is ideal
• Cannot tolerate frost or prolonged drought
• Requires protection from strong winds
• Annual rainfall needs: 1,000-1,800mm well-distributed throughout the year

Soil Requirements:

• Prefers deep, well-drained, fertile soils
• Optimal pH range: 5.0 to 8.5
• Rich in organic matter
• Loamy or sandy loam soil texture
• Good water retention capacity while avoiding waterlogging
• Soil depth should be at least 1 meter for proper root development

Environmental Considerations:

• Benefits from partial shade during intense sunlight periods
• Requires windbreaks in exposed areas to prevent damage
• Needs good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases
• Should be planted away from frost-prone areas
• Drainage systems necessary in high-rainfall areas

Site Selection Tips:

• Choose gently sloping land for natural drainage
• Avoid waterlogged areas or heavy clay soils
• Select sites with natural windbreaks where possible
• Ensure accessibility to reliable water sources
• Consider proximity to market access roads

Additional Factors:

• Humidity levels between 70-80% support optimal growth
• Morning sun exposure is preferable to afternoon sun
• Protection from strong winds prevents fruit drop and branch damage
• Areas with moderate rainfall distribution require less irrigation

Tree tomatoes can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, each with its benefits.

Propagation and Planting

Seed Propagation

This is the most common way to start tree tomato farms. Farmers should use healthy, disease-free fruits from high-yield plants.

1. Extract seeds from ripe tree tomatoes. Ferment them in water for 2-3 days to remove the coating.
2. Rinse and dry the seeds in the shade for 1-2 days before planting.
3. Sow seeds in a nursery bed or seedling trays. Use a well-draining soil mix of loam, compost, and sand.
4. Water regularly and keep the nursery shaded. Seeds germinate in 2-3 weeks.
5. Transplant seedlings when they are 20-30 cm tall, about 2-3 months old.

Cuttings Propagation

This method produces faster-maturing plants that retain parent traits.

1. Select healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings, about 1-1.5 meters long, with 3-4 nodes.
2. Remove excess leaves and plant in moist, well-draining soil or a nursery. After 4-6 weeks, rooting should occur.
3. Transplant rooted cuttings to the main field.

Spacing Requirements

Space tree tomatoes at **4 feet (1.2 meters) between plants** and **5 feet (1.5 meters) between rows**. This allows for good air, sunlight, and easy management.

Field Management Practices

Weeding

Weeds will always compete for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Hence weeding is something that needs doing regularly. Manual or shallow hoeing weeding is best as this does not disturb the plants roots.

Mulching

Organic mulches such as dry grass, straw, or leaves are very helpful because they:

• Lower the frequency of irrigation because they help to retain soil moisture.
• Minimize competition by making it harder for weeds to grow.
• Aid in the health of the soil by supplying organic matter and nutrients.

Irrigation

Soft-fleshed tomatoes require humidity throughout, particularly in dry seasons. Drip irrigation is the ideal solution as it alleviates overwatering and soil erosion. For dry seasons, watering the plants twice a week is sufficient. Do not over water as it can lead to rotting of the roots.

Pruning

Pruning increases the size of fruit on the tree tomatoes and improves some aspects of health for the tree by:

• Cutting off weak, overcrowded or diseased branches.
• Allowing healthy new shoots to grow, leading to better yields.
• Increasing the amount of light and air that can get to the tree.

Support Structures

Given that tree tomatoes carry heavy bushels of fruit, there is the chance of branches breaking. It is important farmers use stakes or trellises, especially when in high wind zones or high production farms.

Managing Pests and Diseases

Common Pests

• Aphids: sap-sucking tiny insects that curl leaves while stunting the growth of plants.
• Whiteflies: These sap-feeding pests damage plants immensely, and can also spread viral contamination.
• Nematodes: These minute size worms attack roots which increases the chances of wilting while simultaneously decline the intake of nutrients.

Major Diseases

• Powdery Mildew: This fungal infection reduces the rate of photosynthesis due to the white patches that form on top of the leaves.
• Blight: Blight results in sunken dark spots on stems while leads to defoliation of plants and rotting of the fruits.
• Mosaic Virus: Yields are affected as this virus causes plants to grow yellowish leaves, with a curvy shape alongside retarded stem growth.

Prevention and Control

• Regular Monitoring: plants need to be looked after regularly with a focus on pest or disease infestation.
• Biological Control: Unwanted pests, like aphids, can be eaten by ladybugs, making them useful insects.
• Organic Methods: Using pest deterrents like garlic spray and neem oil serves the purpose effectively.
• Field Hygiene: Destroy plants that have been infected to restrict the chances of pest infestation.
• Pesticide Use: Insectifing and Fungifuing the crops with pesticides is only essential when the infestation is at it’s peak. The use is advised to be supervised with safe agricultural procedures.

Challenges and Solutions in Tree Tomato Farming

1. Pests and Diseases

• Pests such as aphids, whiteflies, fruit borers, and nematodes harm the plant and lower fruit quality.
• Common diseases like powdery mildew, bacterial wilt, and mosaic virus damage leaves, stunt growth, and cause fruit deformities.Solutions:
• Use integrated pest management (IPM) with organic sprays like neem oil, garlic extract, and insecticidal soaps.
• Rotate crops to break pest cycles and avoid planting in the same spot repeatedly.
• Apply fungicides for fungal diseases and choose resistant plant varieties.

2. Water Shortages and Irrigation Challenges

Tree tomatoes need consistent moisture, particularly in the dry season. Unreliable rainfall may cause poor flowering and low yields.

Solutions:

• Set up drip irrigation for better water management.
• Use heavy mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce water loss.
• Collect and store rainwater for use during dry spells.

3. Fluctuating Market Prices

Tree tomato prices fluctuate. This is due to seasonal supply changes and market oversupply, which leads to low profits during peak seasons.

Solutions:

• Sell to off-peak markets when supply is low. This ensures higher prices.
• Use cold storage to extend shelf life and avoid market flooding.
• Create farmer cooperatives for better prices and access to bulk buyers.

4. Short Shelf Life

Fresh tree tomatoes spoil quickly, posing a challenge for handling after harvest.

Solutions:

• Harvest only mature, firm fruits and store them correctly.
• Invest in value addition by processing them into juices, jams, or dried products. This will extend their shelf life.
• Use cold storage facilities or sell them immediately after harvesting.

5. Land and Soil Challenges

• Poor soil conditions, especially waterlogged or depleted soils, result in low productivity. Solutions:
• Use well-drained loamy soils and steer clear of waterlogged areas.
• Conduct soil testing and add organic manure and fertilisers for improved nutrition.

6. Poor Farm Management Practices

Many farmers lack technical knowledge on pruning, irrigation, pest control, and market access, leading to low productivity and poor-quality fruits.

Solutions:

• Attend agriculture training programs and extension services to improve farm management skills.
• Join cooperative groups to learn modern farming techniques and gain market access.
• Diversify income streams by incorporating value-added products for higher profitability.

Nutrient Management

Proper nutrient management is essential for optimal tree tomato production. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

Base Fertilizer Application:

• During land preparation, apply 2-3 wheelbarrows of well-decomposed manure per hole
• Mix with 120g DAP fertilizer per planting hole
• Ensure thorough mixing with topsoil before planting
• Reapply organic manure annually to maintain soil fertility

Top Dressing Schedule:

• First application: 100g CAN per tree at 3 months after planting
• Second application: 150g NPK (17:17:17) at flowering stage
• Regular application: 100g CAN every 3-4 months during production
• Apply fertilizers in a ring around the plant, 30cm from the stem

Foliar Feeding Program:

• Apply calcium-based foliar feeds during fruiting
• Use nitrogen-rich sprays during vegetative growth
• Include micronutrients like zinc and boron monthly
• Best application time: Early morning or late evening
• Avoid spraying during flowering

Identifying Nutrient Deficiencies:

• Nitrogen deficiency: Yellowing of older leaves
• Phosphorus deficiency: Purple coloration on leaves
• Potassium deficiency: Brown leaf edges
• Calcium deficiency: Blossom end rot in fruits
• Quick correction through appropriate foliar feeds

Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

Proper harvesting and handling ensures maximum market value:

Maturity Indicators:

• Color change from green to variety-specific color (red/yellow)
• Slight softening of the fruit
• Fruits typically mature 5-6 months after flowering
• Harvest when 75% of the fruit shows color change

Harvesting Best Practices:

• Use clean, sharp scissors or secateurs
• Harvest during cool hours of the day
• Leave small stem attached to fruit
• Handle fruits gently to prevent bruising
• Use clean harvesting containers
• Grade fruits immediately after harvest

Storage and Handling:

• Store at 3-4°C for extended shelf life
• Maintain relative humidity at 85-90%
• Can last up to 10 weeks under optimal conditions
• Use ventilated plastic crates for storage
• Remove damaged fruits promptly
• Clean and sanitize storage area regularly

Economic Potential and Market Opportunities

Tree tomato farming is becoming a very profitable business in Kenya. This is due to the high demand for fresh fruit, processed products, and exports. With good farm management and marketing, farmers can earn a steady, high income.

Tree tomatoes sell for Ksh 70–150 per kg, depending on the market and location. A well-managed tree produces 20–30 kg each year. An acre can hold 1,000 trees, yielding up to 30,000 kg per season. This means potential annual earnings of Ksh 2.1 million to Ksh 4.5 million per acre.

Farmers can boost profits by selling in off-peak seasons. Prices are higher then due to lower supply. Organic tree tomatoes also fetch premium prices, as health-conscious consumers prefer them.

Tree tomatoes have several key markets:

• Local Markets: They are sold in supermarkets, fresh produce stores, and open-air markets.
• Juice and Food Processing Industry: They are used to make fresh juices, jams, chutneys, and sauces.
• Export Market: Kenya exports to Uganda, Tanzania, the Middle East, and Europe, where demand is growing.
• Hotels and Restaurants: High-end venues use them in salads, juice blends, and gourmet dishes.

Processing tree tomatoes into juices, jams, sauces, and dried fruit slices boosts profits. Value-added products last longer and sell for higher prices. This reduces post-harvest losses and increases revenue.

Conclusion

Tree tomato farming is a great investment in Kenya. It can bring good returns if managed well. Success relies on good farming practices, market knowledge, and tackling challenges head-on. With careful planning, farmers can create sustainable and profitable tree tomato businesses. This not only boosts their income but also helps Kenya’s agricultural sector grow.

To succeed, farmers must keep high production standards. They should look for different market opportunities and stay updated on industry trends. As demand rises both locally and abroad, tree tomato farming is a promising option for small and commercial farmers in Kenya.

 Frequently Asked Questions