In Muani, just five kilometers from Sultan Hamud towards Kasikeu, lies a seven-and-a-half-acre farm where Patrick Mutiso, a 46-year-old high school teacher at Mutulani High School, has taken the art of farming to a whole new level.
This dedicated farmer has been cultivating a wide range of crops, transforming his land into a thriving agricultural haven.
Patrick’s journey into agriculture began in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic when he decided to pay closer attention to farming activities.
His initial venture into agriculture revolved around pawpaw, driven by the scarcity of water.
“I started by growing pawpaw because I had no water, but my neighbor had water and helped me with irrigation. I began by growing 240 papaya plants,” Mutiso says.
What sets Patrick’s pawpaw cultivation apart is his commitment to proper spacing.
With a meticulous approach, he leaves a generous three-meter gap between each pawpaw plant, ensuring healthy growth and optimal fruit production.
He primarily focuses on growing Solo Sunrise papayas, a variety known for its delicious flavor and vibrant orange flesh.
These pawpaw typically take about six months to mature, and Patrick also experiments with various other papaya varieties, showcasing his enthusiasm for agricultural diversity.
Organic farming is at the heart of Patrick’s agricultural practices.
He uses natural livestock manure as fertilizer for his crops, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly farming methods.
However, farming comes with its fair share of challenges, and Patrick is no stranger to them.
One persistent challenge in his papaya cultivation is the presence of whiteflies that often infest the plants.
To combat this pest, he employs regular pesticide application to protect his crop.
Birds are another challenge that occasionally plagues his farm, particularly when they target the ripening fruits.
Despite these challenges, Patrick remains resilient and undeterred in his agricultural pursuits.
One of his unique selling points is his direct-to-customer approach.
Patrick sells his fresh produce directly to customers who visit his farm. His clients include friends and various other buyers who appreciate the freshness and quality of his fruits and vegetables.
When it comes to pricing, he prefers selling his produce individually, with a single pawpaw fetching between Ksh50 and Ksh150, depending on the size.
Beyond papayas, Patrick diversifies his cultivation efforts. He has dedicated sections of his farm to growing Big Rock F1 tomatoes and bell peppers.
These crops have proven to be profitable, especially with bell peppers commanding a strong market presence.
Despite the challenges posed by weather variations, Patrick has managed to establish a steady supply chain for these vegetables.
Furthermore, Patrick’s commitment to water conservation led him to dig a well in June, ensuring a sustainable source of irrigation for his farm.
