By Stephen Mungai,
Choosing the right agricultural inputs is the first step towards profitable potato farming.
Potato farming is one of the most rewarding agricultural enterprises in Kenya. However, achieving high yields and quality tubers depends largely on using the right agricultural inputs. Many farmers invest heavily in land preparation and labour but overlook the importance of quality seed, appropriate fertilizers, and effective crop protection products. Making the right choices from the beginning can significantly increase productivity and profitability.
The journey to a successful harvest starts with certified seed potato. Certified seed is produced under strict quality standards to ensure it is free from major diseases and maintains the genetic purity of the variety. Compared to recycled or farm-saved seed, certified seed produces stronger plants, more uniform crop establishment, and higher yields. Farmers are encouraged to purchase certified seed from licensed seed producers or registered agro-dealers through the Viazi Soko Digital Platform, where genuine seed suppliers can easily be identified.
Healthy soils produce healthy crops. Before planting, farmers should conduct a soil test to understand the nutrient status and soil pH. Soil testing helps determine the right fertilizer and application rates, reducing unnecessary costs while improving crop performance. Applying fertilizers without knowing the soil’s nutrient requirements may lead to poor crop growth and lower returns.
At planting, use potato-specific basal fertilizers that supply adequate phosphorus for root development and early crop establishment. During crop growth, potatoes require balanced nutrition, especially nitrogen for healthy foliage and potassium for proper tuber formation, size, and quality. Farmers should follow the recommended fertilizer rates based on soil test results or advice from agricultural extension officers.
Potatoes are highly susceptible to fungal diseases, especially late blight and early blight, which can destroy an entire crop within a short period if left unmanaged. Prevention is always more effective than cure. Farmers should begin fungicide applications before disease symptoms become severe, particularly during cool and wet conditions.
For effective disease management, use fungicides containing recommended active ingredients such as mancozeb for preventive protection and systemic fungicides containing cymoxanil, metalaxyl-M, mandipropamid, fluazinam, or cyazofamid where appropriate. To reduce the risk of fungicide resistance, rotate products with different modes of action and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding dosage, spray intervals, and pre-harvest intervals.
Insect pests such as aphids, potato tuber moth, cutworms, and leaf miners can also reduce yields and spread diseases. Farmers should regularly scout their fields and only apply insecticides after correctly identifying the pest. Active ingredients commonly recommended for potato pest management include acetamiprid, imidacloprid, lambda-cyhalothrin, emamectin benzoate, and chlorantraniliprole. Using the correct product for the specific pest improves effectiveness while reducing unnecessary pesticide use.
To avoid counterfeit products, always purchase agricultural inputs from licensed agro-dealers. Carefully inspect packaging, verify expiry dates, and ensure products are registered for use in Kenya. Counterfeit inputs often lead to poor crop performance, financial losses, and environmental risks.
Quality inputs perform best when combined with Good Agricultural Practices. Timely planting, proper spacing, effective weed control, earthing up, regular crop monitoring, and proper water management all contribute to maximizing yields. Farmers should also keep records of the inputs used and seek technical advice whenever they encounter production challenges.
At the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK), we remain committed to supporting farmers through the Viazi Soko Digital Platform, which links farmers to certified seed suppliers, genuine input dealers, extension services, and reliable market information. By making informed decisions and investing in quality agricultural inputs, potato farmers can increase productivity, improve food security, and earn better incomes.
ViaziSoko is back online!
Following scheduled maintenance, the ViaziSoko platform is now fully operational.
You can now access ViaziSoko for market access, quality seed and input sourcing, weather information, and advisory support.
Thank you for your patience. ViaziSoko is ready to serve you again!
Access ViaziSoko through the web portal at https://npckviazisoko.com/, the mobile app, or by dialling the USSD code *𝟰𝟴𝟯*𝟯𝟯𝟭# on your mobile phone.
Farmer’s Tip: Quality inputs are not an expense, they are an investment. Start with certified seed, feed your crop with the right nutrients, protect it using the correct products, and follow recommended agronomic practices to unlock the full yield potential of your potato crop.
