Small Business

List of Most Profitable Horticultural Crops in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide for Agribusiness Investors

tomato farm

Horticulture plays a vital role in the Kenyan economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and providing job opportunities for millions of people. In recent years, Kenya’s horticultural sector has been growing rapidly, with both local and international markets offering great opportunities for farmers. This article outlines some of the most profitable horticultural crops that Kenyan farmers can grow to maximize returns on investment.

The Importance of Horticulture in Kenya

Kenya’s horticultural sector is not only a key contributor to the country’s agricultural GDP but also one of the leading sources of foreign exchange earnings. According to the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD), Kenya is the world’s largest exporter of cut flowers and one of the leading exporters of vegetables and fruits. The country’s favorable climate, fertile soil, and a vast network of agricultural extension services make it an ideal location for horticulture.

Horticulture encompasses a wide range of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Farmers who invest in these high-value crops can significantly improve their livelihoods by tapping into both local and international markets.

In this article, we will explore the most profitable horticultural crops in Kenya, highlighting their market demand, growing conditions, and expected returns. Whether you’re a small-scale farmer looking to diversify your crops or a large agribusiness investor, these horticultural options offer promising prospects.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most lucrative horticultural crops in Kenya. They are widely used in local cuisine, making them a staple in most households. The demand for tomatoes remains consistently high both locally and internationally.

Key Benefits:

  • High Yield: The Anna F1 variety, which is highly recommended for Kenyan farmers, can produce up to 30 tonnes per acre.
  • Quick Maturity: Tomatoes take a relatively short period (about 3–4 months) to mature, making them a profitable crop for quick returns.
  • Market Demand: Fresh tomatoes are in constant demand in local markets, while processed tomatoes are also sought after for export.

Estimated Profit:

  • With proper management, one acre of tomatoes can generate significant profits, particularly if the crop is sold during the peak season when prices are high.

2. Garlic

Garlic is a high-value crop that is widely sought after for its culinary and medicinal properties. It is particularly popular for its use in cooking and as an ingredient in various health products.

Key Benefits:

  • High Nutritional Value: Garlic is packed with nutrients and is known for its health benefits.
  • Growing Time: Garlic takes about 6 months to mature, offering farmers an opportunity to harvest and sell it twice a year.
  • High Market Demand: Garlic is a sought-after commodity in local and international markets, especially for use in food and medicine.

Estimated Profit:

  • A well-cultivated ¼ acre of garlic can produce up to 2.5 tons, with garlic selling for Ksh 150 per kilogram in local markets.

3. Flowers (Roses)

Kenya is globally recognized for its high-quality cut flowers, particularly roses. The country’s favorable climate allows for year-round production of flowers, making it an ideal crop for export.

Key Benefits:

  • International Market: Roses and other flowers from Kenya are in high demand in European and Middle Eastern markets.
  • High Returns: Flowers can be sold for a premium price, especially when exported.
  • Continuous Harvest: Flowering plants like roses can provide continuous income through the year with proper management.

Estimated Profit:

  • While initial investment costs may be high, the returns on investment from flowers, especially roses, can be substantial.

4. Cabbage

Cabbages are another highly profitable crop that grows well in Kenya’s fertile soil. It is one of the most consumed vegetables in Kenya, making it a consistent seller in both rural and urban areas.

Key Benefits:

  • Quick Maturity: Cabbages mature within two months, allowing farmers to have multiple harvests per year.
  • High Yield: One acre of land can accommodate around 19,000 cabbages, offering significant profits if managed correctly.
  • High Market Demand: Cabbages are in constant demand in both local and urban markets.

Estimated Profit:

  • With good cultivation practices, one acre of cabbage can yield up to half a million shillings in profit annually.

5. Onions

Onions are a key ingredient in many Kenyan dishes, and their market demand remains high. They are easy to grow and have a relatively short growth cycle, making them an attractive crop for farmers.

Key Benefits:

  • Multiple Harvests: Onions mature in about three months, and farmers can harvest up to three times a year.
  • High Yield: The F1 variety of onions can produce up to 23 tonnes per hectare.
  • Reliable Market: Onions are in constant demand, especially in urban markets where they are essential for daily meals.

Estimated Profit:

  • With proper pest and disease control, onions can provide consistent returns. A hectare of onions can yield substantial profits if market prices are favorable.

6. Spinach

Spinach is a highly nutritious vegetable with increasing popularity in the Kenyan market. It is known for its health benefits and is often consumed as a cooked vegetable or in salads.

Key Benefits:

  • High Nutritional Value: Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a sought-after vegetable in both local and international markets.
  • Short Growing Time: Spinach can be harvested within 6–8 weeks, offering a quick return on investment.
  • Ready Market: Due to its nutritional benefits, spinach has a consistent market demand, especially among health-conscious consumers.

Estimated Profit:

  • Spinach offers high profitability when grown in a controlled environment and is sold at a premium price due to its health benefits.

7. Kale (Sukumawiki)

Kale, commonly known as sukumawiki, is one of the most popular vegetables in Kenyan households. Its versatility in cooking and relatively low cost make it a profitable crop.

Key Benefits:

  • High Demand: Sukumawiki is consumed regularly in Kenyan homes, ensuring high demand.
  • Easy to Grow: Kale grows quickly and requires minimal investment in terms of resources and inputs.
  • Weekly Harvests: Farmers can harvest kale every week for up to 5 months, providing a steady income.

Estimated Profit:

  • Kale can be sold for approximately Ksh 40 to Ksh 60 per kilogram, and with weekly harvests, farmers can generate consistent income from this crop.

8. Passion Fruit

Passion fruit is one of Kenya’s main fruit exports, with both the purple and yellow varieties in high demand. The fruit is sought after for its sweet and tangy taste and its use in making juices.

Key Benefits:

  • Export Opportunities: Kenya’s passion fruit is in high demand in international markets, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
  • High Yield: Passion fruit vines can yield up to 25 tonnes per hectare when properly managed.
  • Good Price: The price of passion fruit ranges from Ksh 40 to Ksh 100 per kilogram, depending on the market.

Estimated Profit:

  • Passion fruit farming is highly profitable, especially for export-oriented farmers who have access to the international market.

9. Lettuce

Lettuce is a highly nutritious vegetable that grows well in Kenya’s climate. It is used in salads and as a garnish in many dishes, making it a popular choice for farmers.

Key Benefits:

  • High Yield: Lettuce can yield good returns when grown in a well-maintained environment.
  • Quick Maturity: Lettuce matures in about 6 to 8 weeks, providing quick returns.
  • Nutritional Value: Lettuce is rich in vitamins and dietary fiber, which increases its market appeal.

Estimated Profit:

  • Lettuce retails at Ksh 70 to Ksh 100 per head, depending on market conditions. It can be sold in bulk to restaurants, supermarkets, and markets.

10. Dania (Coriander)

Dania is a popular herb used for garnishing food in many Kenyan dishes. It is easy to grow and has a steady market demand.

Key Benefits:

  • High Demand: Dania is a staple in most Kenyan households and is in constant demand.
  • Fast Growth: Dania grows quickly and can be harvested in 1–2 months.
  • High Market Value: Dania seeds are inexpensive, and with proper cultivation, farmers can earn significant profits.

Estimated Profit:

  • Dania seeds worth Ksh 1000 can generate profits of up to Ksh 40,000 within 1 to 2 months, making it a profitable crop for small-scale farmers.

Conclusion: Maximizing Your Horticultural Profits in Kenya

The horticultural sector in Kenya is filled with opportunities for farmers who are willing to invest in high-value crops. From tomatoes and garlic to passion fruits and flowers, there is a wide variety of crops that promise good returns. By understanding the growing conditions, market demand, and proper cultivation practices, farmers can boost their profitability and contribute to the overall growth of Kenya’s agricultural sector.

If you’re considering venturing into horticulture, start by focusing on one or two of these profitable crops and gradually expand as you gain experience. Don’t forget to tap into both local and international markets, as export opportunities can offer even greater profits.


Are you ready to start your horticultural business? Do you have experience growing any of these crops? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going about maximizing profits in Kenya’s vibrant horticultural industry!