Fruitcrops in the cashew-coconut system of Kenya: their use, management and agroforestry potential.
Aiyelaagbe I. O. O.
Author Affiliation: International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF), P.O. Box 30677, Nairobi, Kenya.
Agroforestry Systems 27 : 1-16
Abstract : The cashew (Anacardium occidentale)-coconut (Cocos nucifera) system in 2 districts (Kilifi and Kwale) in the Coast Province of Kenya was appraised in September 1991 to determine the efficacy and adoption potential of a fruit crop (fruit tree) based agroforestry intervention designed to increase the productivity of the system. Four locations were included in the study, which included a range of farm sizes - from home gardens to large holdings, with livestock (mainly goats and chickens). Fruit crops on farmers' plots ranged between 16 and 22 species. They featured mainly as understorey trees in cashew-coconut plots and the upper storey of food crop plots. Fruit tree management was generally poor. Between 67 and 100% of farmers' interviewed were interested in planting more fruit trees on their farms. Envisaged cash generation was a major reason for their interest. Preferred species were generally adapted exotics. Preference was in the order of Mangifera indica, Citrus sinensis, C. reticulata > Cocos nucifera, Anacardium occidentale, Carica papaya > Passiflora edulis var. flavicarpa, Ananas comosus, Syzygium cumini, Citrus limon, Musa sapientum [M. paradisiaca], Persea americana > Musa paradisiaca, Citrus aurantiifolia, Annona spp. Locational differences existed in exact order of preference within the groupings. Anacardium occidentale, Cocos nucifera, Mangifera indica, Citrus sinensis, Annona squamosa and Ananas comosus were planted mainly for cash, while the other species were mainly for home consumption. Secondary uses included fuelwood, shade and medicines. Constraints to fruit production included lack of improved fruit tree seedlings, low proficiency in fruit seedling production, transportation, no capital for initial investment, damage by wild animals, prolonged dry spells, and frequent dieback of fruit trees. Based on its high adoption potential, a fruit crop based agroforestry intervention (i.e. the integration of more fruit trees into the system) is recommended for increasing the productivity of the cashew-coconut system of Kenya.