Hybrid Maize Production — Rift Valley (120 Days)
A step-by-step maize farming programme for the Rift Valley and Trans-Nzoia growing conditions. Covers variety selection (H614D, DK8031), land preparation, planting, fertilisation, weed and pest management, and mechanised or manual harvesting.
MkulimaHub Advisory Team
Curated by certified agronomists, veterinarians, and agricultural engineers across Kenya
10 years experience
These programmes are developed and reviewed by the MkulimaHub editorial team in collaboration with practising agronomists, veterinarians, and agricultural engineers across Kenya. Every activity is grounded in Kenyan growing conditions, locally available inputs, and real market realities.
Sample Schedule (First 2 Weeks)
Soil Testing & Land Assessment
Collect soil samples from 10 points (zigzag pattern). Test for pH, N, P, K. Most Rift Valley soils are slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5). Results determine lime and fertiliser needs.
Lime Application (if needed)
If soil pH < 5.5, apply agricultural lime at 2–3 t/ha. Incorporate by ploughing 3–4 weeks before planting.
Primary & Secondary Tillage
Deep plough to 25–30 cm. Disc harrow to create fine tilth. Incorporate compost or DAP during secondary tillage.
Variety & Seed Treatment
Select H614D (90-day), WH505 (highlands), or DK8031 (Trans-Nzoia). Treat seed with Apron Star (metalaxyl + thiram + imidacloprid) per label.
Planting Day
Plant 2 seeds/hole, 5 cm deep, 30 cm within row, 75 cm between rows. Apply DAP 50 kg/ha in furrow 5 cm below seed (no direct contact). Cover with soil.
Germination Check & Thinning
Check germination (>80% expected). Thin to 1 plant/hole at 3-leaf stage. Target 44,000–53,000 plants/ha.
First Weeding
Weed at 2–3 weeks — critical window. Use hand hoe or inter-row cultivator.
Top-Dress CAN — First Application
Apply CAN 100 kg/ha at knee-high stage (Day 25–30). Place in furrow 10 cm from stem, cover with soil.
Stalk Borer Scouting & Control
Scout for Chilo partellus — look for deadheart in young plants. Apply Duduthrin granules into leaf whorls at Day 20–25 if infestation detected.
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+ 7 more activities across 120 days
Full 120-day program
- Daily activity guidance
- SMS reminders
- Expert Q&A access