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Mkulima young, Chuka (2026)

21/02/2026

Let's be advised accordingly

20/02/2026

Let's do some dairy farming..... what challenges come with this venture?? Please share your experience

18/02/2026

Farming is sweet

18/02/2026

40 days layers at 400 each

05/06/2025

The Secret to High-Yield Maize Farming

Maize farming is one of the most essential agricultural activities worldwide, providing food security and a steady income for farmers. However, many farmers experience low yields due to improper farming techniques, poor soil management, and inadequate pest control. If you want to maximize your maize production, follow these expert-recommended steps for a successful harvest.

1. Soil Preparation: Laying the Foundation for Success

A strong maize crop begins with properly prepared soil. Before planting, conduct a soil test to determine its nutrient composition and pH level. Maize thrives in well-drained, fertile loam soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.

Plowing and Tilling: Deep plowing (20–30 cm) helps improve aeration and root pe*******on.

Adding Organic Matter: Incorporate decomposed manure or compost to enrich the soil with essential nutrients.

W**d Control: Remove w**ds before planting to prevent competition for nutrients and moisture.

2. Choosing the Right Seeds

Using high-quality seeds is crucial to achieving a high yield. Select hybrid or certified seeds that are resistant to pests, diseases, and drought. Some of the best-performing hybrid varieties include:

H614D (High-yielding and drought-resistant)

DKC9089 (Fast-maturing and disease-resistant)

Pioneer P2859W (Suitable for regions with irregular rainfall)

3. Proper Planting Techniques

Planting maize correctly ensures uniform germination and a better harvest.

Spacing: Plant maize in rows, with 75 cm between rows and 25 cm between plants.

Planting Depth: Seeds should be planted 3–5 cm deep in moist soil.

Timing: Plant at the onset of the rainy season for optimum moisture availability.

4. Fertilizer Application for Strong Growth

Applying fertilizers at the right time enhances root development and overall plant health.

Before Planting: Use farmyard manure or organic compost to improve soil fertility.

At Planting: Apply a basal fertilizer such as NPK (23:23:0) to support early growth.

During Growth: Side-dress with Urea (46:0:0) or CAN when plants reach knee height to boost leaf and grain development.

5. Pest and Disease Control

Maize crops are vulnerable to pests and diseases that can significantly reduce yields.

Common Pests: Armyworms, maize borers, and cutworms can damage maize plants. Use organic neem oil or approved pesticides to control them.

Disease Management: Diseases like maize lethal necrosis and rust can spread quickly. Apply fungicides and rotate crops yearly to minimize risks.

6. Irrigation and Water Management

While maize is drought-resistant, proper water management ensures a higher yield.

Rain-fed Farming: Plant at the beginning of the rainy season.

Irrigated Farming: Use drip irrigation to conserve water while maintaining soil moisture.

7. Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

Harvesting at the right time prevents losses and ensures better grain quality.

Maturity Indicators: Cobs should have well-filled grains, and husks should turn brown.

Drying: After harvesting, dry the grains properly to reduce moisture content to below 13% before storage.

Storage: Use airtight containers or treated gunny bags to prevent insect infestations.

Boost Your Maize Farming Knowledge!

24/05/2025

PROTECT YOUR CHICKENS FROM SNAKES CANNIBALISM !! ( BIOSECURITY)

Snakes are usually unexpected but shouldn't be a surprise when found around poultry.
It's important to keep snakes out of your chicken environment to keep the eggs, chicks, & even your chickens safe from snake attacks.

If you have snakes around your poultry, it's one sign that you have rodents in the poultry and most likely eating your chicken's feed.

Here are some of the ways you can implement to avoid these creatures in your homesteaPROTECT YOUR CHICKENS FROM SNAKES CANNIBALISM !! ( BIOSECURITY)

Snakes are usually unexpected but shouldn't be a surprise when found around poultry.
It's important to keep snakes out of your chicken environment to keep the eggs, chicks, & even your chickens safe from snake attacks.

If you have snakes around your poultry, it's one sign that you have rodents in the poultry and most likely eating your chicken's feed.

Here are some of the ways you can implement to avoid these creatures in your homesteads:

1. RODENT CONTROL:
Rats love chicken feed and snakes love rats and mice. If you have too many rats running around your yard, chances of sighting a snake are high. Rodent control is therefore important. Ensure proper waste management – burn or properly dispose of any litter far away from the fowl run.

Too much garbage lying around is food for rats and junk items around the yard such as rubbles, old roofing sheets and wood piles provide a safe haven for rats and snakes. As you may be aware, rats breed so fast hence attracting the attention of these reptiles which may end up in your fowl run eating the chickens and eggs.

2. SNAKE REPELLANTS:
Planting snake repellant plants also helps to deter the creatures. These plants emit odours that irritate snakes. Some common examples include marigolds, lemongrass, wormwood, rosemary, thyme, garlic, garden rue and onions. Plant these around the chicken run and yard to provide a protective shield for the birds.

Snake pills from most veterinary shops also help excrete pungent smell that deter these reptiles. Smoke from burning tyres also irritates snakes from settling in the yard. Putting diesel around the perimeter of the yard or fowl run also ensures snakes do not cross the line. You can also put broken bottle pieces around the fowl run to deter snakes from crossing. Spraying a concoction of mahogany tree barks soaked in water around the yard also repels the serpents.

3. CUT DOWN TALL GRASS:
Ensure grass around the yard and fowl run is cut short at all times. Tall grass and thick bushes provide a safe home or hideout for snakes and even mosquitos.

4. COVER ANY FOWL RUN OPENINGS:
With the rains around, snakes are constantly looking for dry and warm places to stay. Fowl runs, homes and storerooms provide these ideal conditions. Ensure the fowl run has no openings that allow snakes to enter especially from the roof.

Cover any openings with mesh wire or plaster any holes or cracks where possible. The fowl run should be snake proof to protect the chickens at all times.

5. PRUNE TREES:
Snakes can climb trees and find ways to enter the fowl run through the roof. Ensure any nearby trees are pruned at all times.

6. COLLECT EGGS REGULARLY:
Snakes are mostly attracted to eggs more than the chickens. It’s only when chickens seem to be a predator when snakes do attack the birds.

Ensure eggs in nesting boxes are removed regularly during the day and remove the ‘temptation’ for snakes to enter the fowl runs.

7. KEEPING GUINEA FOWLS:
Those with guinea fowls (hanga) can testify these birds are very alert and make a lot of noise when they see intruders. Guinea fowls are not afraid of snakes and can fight off and kill these reptiles with ease.

However, guinea fowls can also end up bullying chickens hence you need to introduce them pretty early to ensure they can co-exist well.

8. CATS AND DOGS:
Cats are good at reducing rodent population and even fighting off snakes. Dogs too can help in spotting such intruders. Having these in the yard is a sure help when it comes to managing rodents and keeping snakes away.

CONCLUSION:
In the event you find snakes in the fowl run, it is always advisable to enlist the services of professional snake handlers than trying to manage this on your own.

Some snake species are poisonous and can harm you. Snake handlers know how to catch and rehabilitate these reptiles. Snakes have a purpose in the ecosystem, there is need to preserve them hence the need to call professionals for help.ds:

1. RODENT CONTROL:
Rats love chicken feed and snakes love rats and mice. If you have too many rats running around your yard, chances of sighting a snake are high. Rodent control is therefore important. Ensure proper waste management – burn or properly dispose of any litter far away from the fowl run.

Too much garbage lying around is food for rats and junk items around the yard such as rubbles, old roofing sheets and wood piles provide a safe haven for rats and snakes. As you may be aware, rats breed so fast hence attracting the attention of these reptiles which may end up in your fowl run eating the chickens and eggs.

2. SNAKE REPELLANTS:
Planting snake repellant plants also helps to deter the creatures. These plants emit odours that irritate snakes. Some common examples include marigolds, lemongrass, wormwood, rosemary, thyme, garlic, garden rue and onions. Plant these around the chicken run and yard to provide a protective shield for the birds.

Snake pills from most veterinary shops also help excrete pungent smell that deter these reptiles. Smoke from burning tyres also irritates snakes from settling in the yard. Putting diesel around the perimeter of the yard or fowl run also ensures snakes do not cross the line. You can also put broken bottle pieces around the fowl run to deter snakes from crossing. Spraying a concoction of mahogany tree barks soaked in water around the yard also repels the serpents.

3. CUT DOWN TALL GRASS:
Ensure grass around the yard and fowl run is cut short at all times. Tall grass and thick bushes provide a safe home or hideout for snakes and even mosquitos.

4. COVER ANY FOWL RUN OPENINGS:
With the rains around, snakes are constantly looking for dry and warm places to stay. Fowl runs, homes and storerooms provide these ideal conditions. Ensure the fowl run has no openings that allow snakes to enter especially from the roof.

Cover any openings with mesh wire or plaster any holes or cracks where possible. The fowl run should be snake proof to protect the chickens at all times.

5. PRUNE TREES:
Snakes can climb trees and find ways to enter the fowl run through the roof. Ensure any nearby trees are pruned at all times.

6. COLLECT EGGS REGULARLY:
Snakes are mostly attracted to eggs more than the chickens. It’s only when chickens seem to be a predator when snakes do attack the birds.

Ensure eggs in nesting boxes are removed regularly during the day and remove the ‘temptation’ for snakes to enter the fowl runs.

7. KEEPING GUINEA FOWLS:
Those with guinea fowls (hanga) can testify these birds are very alert and make a lot of noise when they see intruders. Guinea fowls are not afraid of snakes and can fight off and kill these reptiles with ease.

However, guinea fowls can also end up bullying chickens hence you need to introduce them pretty early to ensure they can co-exist well.

8. CATS AND DOGS:
Cats are good at reducing rodent population and even fighting off snakes. Dogs too can help in spotting such intruders. Having these in the yard is a sure help when it comes to managing rodents and keeping snakes away.

CONCLUSION:
In the event you find snakes in the fowl run, it is always advisable to enlist the services of professional snake handlers than trying to manage this on your own.

Some snake species are poisonous and can harm you. Snake handlers know how to catch and rehabilitate these reptiles. Snakes have a purpose in the ecosystem, there is need to preserve them hence the need to call professionals for help.

25/08/2024

8 Essential tips for growing sweet melons!

1. Understanding Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo) is nutrient-rich, offering vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.

2. Choosing the Right Variety
Popular varieties include Hales Best Jumbo, Athena, and Savor. Choose based on flavor and local climate.

3. Preparing the Soil
Use well-draining, organic-rich soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Enrich with compost or balanced fertilizer.

4. Planting the Seeds
Plant seeds after the last frost in warm soil. Space seeds 18-24 inches apart.

5. Caring for Cantaloupe Plants
Water regularly but avoid soggy soil. Manage w**ds and watch for pests and diseases.

6. Harvesting and Storing
Harvest when the stem separates easily, the fruit emits a sweet aroma, and the rind is tan or yellow. Store uncut at room temperature for a week.

7. Tips for a Bountiful Harvest
Mulch to conserve moisture and warmth. Hand pollinate if needed, and prune vines to focus energy on fewer fruits...

01/08/2024

Interesting,
This plant is abundant in most backyards, and we cut it down without knowing it has properties capable of treating more than 10 diseases.
In the vast expanse of our backyards, amidst the commonly disregarded flora, lies a plant with extraordinary medicinal qualities, often overlooked and discarded by many. Known scientifically as Eleusine indica and colloquially as goose grass, this seemingly inconsequential w**d is a powerhouse of therapeutic benefits. Its presence in most gardens is ubiquitous, yet its potent ability to combat more than 10 diseases is scarcely acknowledged.

A Closer Look at Goose Grass
Goose grass thrives in various environments, making it a common sight in yards across the globe. Despite its humble appearance, this herb is a treasure trove of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiallergic, and diuretic qualities. Traditionally, it is brewed into a tea that serves as a remedy for a myriad of health issues.

Broad Spectrum of Health Benefits
The versatility of goose grass in treating diverse ailments cannot be overstated. Below are some of the significant health conditions it addresses:

1.Cancer Prevention and Management: Goose grass’s rich antioxidant content is its secret weapon against cancer. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can lead to cancer cell formation. Consuming goose grass tea regularly can form part of a preventive health care regimen aimed at reducing the risk of cancer development.

2. Relief for Ovarian Cysts and Fibroids: The anti-inflammatory properties of goose grass make it an excellent natural treatment for reducing swelling and pain associated with ovarian cysts and fibroids. Drinking the tea daily can help alleviate symptoms and promote reproductive health.

3. Kidney Disease Support: As a natural diuretic, goose grass increases urine production, aiding in the removal of excess water and salt from the body. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from kidney diseases, as it helps in managing fluid balance and reducing swelling.

4. Diabetes Management: The antidiabetic properties of goose grass can significantly aid individuals with diabetes. By influencing blood sugar levels positively, goose grass tea can be a helpful addition to a diabetes management plan, improving overall glucose control.

5. Healing Bleeding and Wounds: To expedite the healing of wounds and stop bleeding, apply a paste made from crushed goose grass directly to the affected area. Its natural properties help in clot formation and wound healing.

6. Combatting Parasites: Goose grass has natural laxative effects, which can be beneficial in treating parasitic infections. By facilitating bowel movements, it helps in expelling parasites from the gastrointestinal tract, improving digestive health.

7. Pneumonia Recovery: A potent remedy against pneumonia can be made by brewing a tea from the roots of goose grass. Consumed regularly, this tea can significantly reduce pneumonia symptoms and accelerate recovery, often showing results within a matter of days.

8. Managing High Blood Pressure: The calming effects of goose grass on the cardiovascular system can help in managing high blood pressure. Regular consumption of goose grass tea may aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

9 Fever Reduction: For those suffering from fever, goose grass can offer relief. Drinking tea made from its cooked roots can help in lowering body temperature and alleviating fever symptoms.

10. Aiding Ligament Sprains: The external application of goose grass is also beneficial. For ligament sprains, applying a poultice made from crushed leaves can reduce swelling and pain, aiding in the healing process.
a cup of goose grass tea.

Preparation and Usage for Each Condition
The preparation of goose grass for medicinal use varies slightly depending on the condition being treated:

For internal conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, high blood pressure, and fever, brewing a tea from the leaves or roots is recommended. Use a handful of goose grass per half liter of water, boil for 3 minutes, and consume one glass daily.

For external applications, such as wounds and sprains, create a paste by crushing fresh leaves. Apply this directly to the affected area for relief and healing.
Embracing Goose Grass as a Natural Healer

The comprehensive healing properties of goose grass underscore its potential as a powerful natural remedy for a wide range of health issues. By understanding the specific preparations and applications for each condition, we can unlock the full potential of this common yet potent plant, integrating it into our wellness routines for improved health and vitality.

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28/07/2024

Interesting facts of chicken egg fertility that you may not know.

🪶 It is possible to have a rooster and a hen that are active but a hen can still lay eggs that are not fertile:

I know you may be wondering how, and here is the explanation.
Unlike other birds where you find partners, in chickens there is no courtship or romance. A rooster just forces himself on the hen. So what happens is when a rooster mates a hen, his injected semen is stored in numerous s***m storage tubules (SSTs) located in the area where the hen’s uterus joins the va**na. But this only happens provided the hen likes the rooster. If she doesn’t, she can sq**rt out the semen to avoid hatching his offspring. Therefore a hen may still proceed to lay eggs that are not fertile despite even mating with a rooster every day.

🪶 Even if the hen approves the rooster, some eggs may still not be fertile:

Since the s***m is released shortly after an egg is laid, and each egg takes approximately 25 hours to develop, an egg produced on the day of mating will not be fertile.

An egg laid the next day may or may not be fertile, depending on the timing. An egg laid on the third day definitely should be fertile.

So as you can see your hen can still have the first two or three eggs that are not fertile despite the hen and a rooster having mated.

🪶 You don't need a rooster everyday for the hen to continue laying fertile eggs:

The amount of time during which the hen will continue to lay fertile eggs depends on how much s***m fills the SSTs, which are capable of storing semen from multiple matings and multiple roosters.

Highly productive hens generally remain fertile longer than hens that lay at a slower rate. The average duration of fertility from a single mating is 10 to 14 days.
So it is possible that once your hen has mated with a rooster you can even take the rooster away and you can still have fertile eggs for the next 14 days.

17/07/2024

How to grow watermelon

1. Choose a sunny location: Watermelons need full sun to thrive, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.

2. Prepare the soil: Watermelons prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting to provide the plants with the nutrients they need to grow.

3. Plant seeds or seedlings: Watermelon seeds can be started indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost date, or sown directly into the garden once the soil has warmed up to at least 70°F. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and space them 2-3 feet apart in rows that are 6-8 feet apart.

4. Provide support: Watermelon vines can grow quite long and heavy, so it's a good idea to provide support for them to climb on. You can use trellises, cages, or even old pantyhose to support the vines as they grow.

5. Water regularly: Watermelons need consistent moisture to grow and produce fruit. Water deeply once a week, making sure to water at the base of the plants to avoid getting the leaves wet. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress w**ds.

6. Fertilize: Watermelons are heavy feeders, so it's important to fertilize them regularly throughout the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for fruiting plants, and follow the instructions on the package.

7. Control pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common watermelon pests like aphids, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs, and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, be on the lookout for diseases like powdery mildew and downy mildew, and treat them with fungicides if necessary.

8. Harvest: Watermelons are ready to harvest when the tendrils near the fruit turn brown and dry up, and the bottom of the fruit turns yellow. Cut the fruit from the vine with a sharp knife, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Enjoy your homegrown watermelon!

06/07/2024

HOW TO MAKE ONION POWDER

Onion Powder is one powerful natural seasoning that can take the flavor of your food to another level.

Another good thing about onion powder is that it can be added to almost all kinds of food recipes including soups.

You can also make huge money exporting Onion powder. As simple as it looks, that is the truth.

Onion powder is a good substitute if you do not like to see fresh onions in your food.

It performs magic when combined with other herbs and spices like ginger, garlic, chilli peppers.

How to prepare onion your Powder:

Get your onions, depending on the quantity you want to use. Make sure to select good onions and not the spoilt ones.

Peel the outer back of the onions, wash it properly and then slice it into rings for easy handling and drying.

Transfer the sliced onions into a food dehydrator to dry the onions.

If you do not have a food dehydrator, you can use the sun to dry the sliced onions.

Once the the onions is dried, pour into a grinder or blender to grind into fine powder.

06/07/2024

Ginger beer recipe: natural, delicious, and healing
From Farmers' Way
I am using fresh ginger from my garden.....

Ingredients:
7 oz (about 1 1/2 cups) ground ginger
15.2 fl. oz (about 1 3/4 cups) mineral water
8 oz (about 1 cup) sugar (or organic honey as a substitute)
3.9 fl. oz (about 1/2 cup) sparkling water
A few drops of lemon juice
Lemon slices for garnish
Preparation:
1. In a saucepan, combine the ground ginger and mineral water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and strain the ginger mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl.
3. Add the sugar (or honey) to the ginger liquid and stir until dissolved.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Once cooled, stir in the sparkling water and a few drops of lemon juice.
6. Transfer the ginger beer to a clean, airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until chilled.
7. Serve over ice with lemon slices for garnish. Enjoy your natural, delicious, and healing ginger beer! "

Mkulima young

21/02/2026

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