Popular Cabbage Varieties for Sale in Kenya

Cabbage farming is one of the most profitable agribusiness ventures in Kenya. Whether you are a small-scale farmer or a large-scale commercial grower, selecting the right cabbage variety is crucial for maximizing yield, ensuring disease resistance, and meeting market demand. This comprehensive guide explores the best cabbage varieties for sale in Kenya, their characteristics, growing conditions, and where to buy them.

Why Grow Cabbage in Kenya?

High Demand in Local and Export Markets

Cabbage is a staple vegetable in Kenya, widely consumed in households, restaurants, and institutions. The increasing demand for fresh vegetables, both locally and internationally, makes cabbage farming a lucrative business.

Profitability of Cabbage Farming

Cabbage farming offers high returns with minimal input costs. With proper farming techniques, a farmer can achieve high yields per acre, ensuring profitability.

Adaptability to Different Climatic Conditions

Kenya’s diverse climate allows for cabbage cultivation in different regions, from high-altitude areas like Kiambu and Nyeri to lowland areas like Makueni and Machakos.

Top Popular Cabbage Varieties for Sale in Kenya

Gloria F1 Cabbage

High yield potential – Produces large, uniform heads weighing 4-6 kg.
Disease resistance – Tolerant to black rot and fusarium wilt.
Market preference – Ideal for local and export markets.

Pruktor F1 Cabbage

Fast-growing – Matures within 75-85 days.
Excellent head formation – Compact, round heads suitable for storage and transport.
Resistant to major cabbage diseases.

Sugarloaf Cabbage

Sweet taste – Preferred for salads and fresh consumption.
Cone-shaped heads – Unlike traditional round heads, it has a unique pointed shape.
Ideal for home gardening and small-scale farming.

Copenhagen Market Cabbage

Early maturing – Harvest-ready within 70-80 days.
Compact size – Suitable for small farms and kitchen gardens.
Great flavor – A favorite for fresh market sales.

Green Coronet F1 Cabbage

Disease-resistant – Strong resistance to black rot and fusarium wilt.
Dense, heavy heads – Excellent for bulk market sales.
Long shelf life – Maintains freshness post-harvest.

Oxylus F1 Cabbage

Tolerant to extreme weather – Performs well in both rainy and dry seasons.
Excellent for large-scale farming – Preferred by commercial growers.
Uniform head formation – Ensures high marketability.

How to Choose the Right Cabbage Variety in Kenya

Consider Climatic Conditions

Different cabbage varieties thrive in different climates. High-altitude regions like Limuru favor Gloria F1, while lowland areas like Kitui may perform better with drought-resistant varieties like Oxylus F1.

Soil Type and pH

Cabbage grows best in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Before planting, conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels.

Growth Duration

Short-season varieties (e.g., Copenhagen Market) are ideal for quick harvesting.
Long-season varieties (e.g., Gloria F1) provide higher yields but require more patience.

Where to Buy Popular Cabbage Varieties in Kenya

Trusted Agro-Vets

Many local agro-vet shops stock certified cabbage seeds. Ensure you buy from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeit seeds.

Online Agricultural Stores

Several online platforms offer genuine hybrid cabbage seeds for sale in Kenya, including:

Jumia Kenya – Agricultural Section
iProcure Kenya
Amiran Kenya

Direct from Seed Companies

Companies like Syngenta, East African Seed, and Kenya Seed Company supply high-quality cabbage seeds.

Pricing of Popular Cabbage Varieties in Kenya

The price of cabbage seeds varies depending on the variety and packaging size. Below are estimated prices:

Gloria F1 (10g packet) – KSh 500-KSh 700
Pruktor F1 (10g packet) – KSh 600-KSh 800
Sugarloaf (50g packet) – KSh 1,000-KSh 1,500
Bulk seeds (1kg pack) – KSh 8,000-KSh 12,000

Best Growing Conditions for Different Cabbage Varieties

Soil and pH Requirements

Cabbage requires well-drained soils with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Soil testing before planting ensures optimal nutrient levels.

Watering and Irrigation

Regular watering is essential, especially during dry seasons. Drip irrigation is recommended for water conservation and uniform growth.

Pest and Disease Management in Cabbage Farming

Common Cabbage Pests

Aphids – Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Diamondback Moth – Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as a biological control.
Cutworms – Use organic pesticides or crop rotation techniques.

Common Cabbage Diseases

Black Rot – Use resistant varieties like Green Coronet F1.
Fusarium Wilt – Practice proper crop rotation.

Expected Yield of Different Cabbage Varieties

Gloria F1 – 20-25 tons per acre
Pruktor F1 – 18-22 tons per acre
Sugarloaf – 15-20 tons per acre
Copenhagen Market – 12-18 tons per acre
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
Harvest when heads are firm and compact.
Use a sharp knife to cut heads cleanly.
Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerated storage to maintain freshness.

Market Demand for Cabbage in Kenya

The demand for high-quality cabbage is increasing, especially in:

Local fresh markets (e.g., Wakulima Market, City Park Market)
Supermarkets and grocery stores
Export markets (UAE, Europe, and neighboring East African countries)

Organic and Sustainable Cabbage Farming Practices

Use organic fertilizers (e.g., compost, manure).
Practice crop rotation to improve soil health.
Apply biological pest control methods instead of synthetic pesticides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best cabbage variety for Kenyan farmers?

Gloria F1 and Pruktor F1 are highly recommended for their high yield and disease resistance.

2. How long does cabbage take to grow in Kenya?

Depending on the variety, cabbage takes 70-90 days from transplanting to maturity.

3. Where can I buy cabbage seeds in bulk in Kenya?

You can purchase bulk cabbage seeds from certified agro-dealers, seed companies, and online agricultural platforms.