Improving consistency of yields and quality of large-scale and small-holder bean production in Kenya by precision management of soil, water and pathogens

Delivering consistent supplies of high quality fresh produce is a significant challenge for Kenya’s fresh

veg. growers. Yields of beans range from 5 to 50T/ha and up to 40% of produce is of poor quality, due to

ineffective irrigation and soil-borne diseases. A 12% increase in average yield and a 20% reduction in

waste would raise Class 1 yields by 978T/year; this would generate an extra £3.2M/year, increase food

security and improve soil management practices. We will: 1) Develop irrigation scheduling tools to

improve consistency of cropping; 2) Identify effects of biocontrol agents on soil pathogens and soil

microbiome 3) Determine effects of soil water availability on incidence and severity soil pathogens and

efficacy of biocontrol agents; 4) Develop integrated control measures to improve Class 1 yields, quality

and shelf-life; 5) Promote benefits of precision irrigation and biocontrol at workshops/on-farm demos;

6) Assess social and economic impacts of outputs and implement sustainability improvement plans.