Machakos County has poor soil which cannot support growth of a variety of crops.
The County also experiences long periods of drought. Add this to the fact that water is a scarce commodity in the County and you are sure to give up on agriculture. Maize grown in the area, especially in Mlolongo and Athi River areas do not perform well.
Most of them wither before reaching maturity stage. Maize farmers in Athi River and Mlolongo usually count loses each and every planting season. Those who are lucky to get something are not any happier lot as the harvest is so little the common joke goes that it can be eaten in one sitting.
Most farmers in Athi River and indeed the larger Machakos County have of late turned to vegetable farming. If you take a walk along Athi River-Kinanie Road, you will see many vegetable farms. Many of these farmers have completely abandoned maize and are now growing kales, Cabbages, tomatoes and onions. They have been depending on River Athi to irrigate their farms but a big problem is looming. River Athi is drying up, many farmers are panicking and some are even contemplating leaving the noble business of farming.
Here are some pieces of advise to the farmers, especially those who used to grow maize:
The success of growing maize in Machakos County is to improve the condition of soil. The rains which usually is enough to grow maize up to maturity stage without the stress of irrigation. How do you improve the condition of soil?
Well, the answer is very simple. Farmers should make use of the Mavuno fertilizers to improve the soil fertility. Mavuno fertilizer contains 11 essential plant nutrients that increase crop yields by over 40%.Mavuno fertilizer is manufactured at Athi River Mining and farmers from the area are likely to enjoy cheaper wholesale/retail prizes because of their proximity to the factory.I visited the factory and I was amazed at the many benefits of using Mavuno fertilizers. When applied, Mavuno fertilizer improves the fertility of the soil.
Further research also shows that there are three types of Mavuno fertilizers; Mavuno planting, Mavuno top dressing and Mavuno vegetable according to www.fenesi.com.
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