Grafted Passion Fruit Seedlings

At Virtual Agrovet, we are committed to providing you with only the best in agricultural products, and our grafted passion fruit seedlings are no exception. Carefully cultivated and expertly grafted, our seedlings are designed to ensure that you achieve bountiful harvests, superior fruit quality, and long-lasting, productive vines.

Why Choose Grafted Passion Fruit Seedlings?

Grafted passion fruit seedlings are a game-changer in the world of horticulture. Unlike traditional seedlings, grafted seedlings combine the strengths of two plants: the robust rootstock, known for its resistance to diseases and pests, and the scion, which is selected for its high yield and excellent fruit quality. This fusion results in a plant that is not only hardy but also incredibly productive, giving you the best of both worlds.

Exceptional Disease Resistance

One of the standout features of our grafted passion fruit seedlings is their exceptional resistance to common diseases and pests that often plague passion fruit plants. The rootstock used in grafting is carefully selected for its natural resistance to soil-borne diseases such as Fusarium wilt, nematodes, and root rot. This means that your plants will have a stronger defense mechanism, reducing the need for chemical treatments and allowing you to grow your passion fruits more sustainably.

Enhanced Yield and Fruit Quality

Our grafted passion fruit seedlings are known for their impressive yields and top-tier fruit quality. The scion grafted onto the rootstock is chosen for its prolific fruiting ability and the production of large, juicy, and flavorful passion fruits. Whether you’re a commercial grower or a home gardener, you’ll be delighted with the quantity and quality of the fruits produced by these vigorous plants.

Adaptability to Various Growing Conditions

Another significant advantage of our grafted passion fruit seedlings is their adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions. Whether you’re planting in the highlands, lowlands, or coastal regions, these seedlings will thrive. The robust root system allows them to access nutrients and water more efficiently, even in less-than-ideal soil conditions, ensuring healthy growth and abundant fruiting.

Long-Term Productivity

Investing in our grafted passion fruit seedlings means investing in long-term productivity. The grafting process not only enhances disease resistance and yield but also extends the productive lifespan of the plant. You’ll enjoy multiple harvests over several years, making these seedlings a cost-effective choice for anyone looking to maximize their agricultural investments.

Expert Support and Guidance

At Virtual Agrovet, we don’t just sell you seedlings; we partner with you throughout your growing journey. Our team of experts is always on hand to provide you with the guidance and support you need to ensure the success of your grafted passion fruit plants. From planting tips to pest management advice, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Step-by-Step Guide on Planting Grafted Passion Fruit Seedlings in Kenya

Planting grafted passion fruit seedlings in Kenya can be a rewarding venture if done correctly. This guide will walk you through each step, from selecting the right ecological conditions to harvesting your fruits and understanding the expected yield and profits.

1. Ecological Conditions

Passion fruits thrive in warm, tropical climates with temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. The ideal altitude for passion fruit farming ranges from 1,200 to 2,000 meters above sea level. The crop requires well-distributed rainfall of about 900 to 2,000 mm annually, but irrigation can supplement this in drier areas.

2. Soil Preparation

• Soil Type: Passion fruits prefer well-drained, sandy-loam soils rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0.
• Soil Preparation: Before planting, clear the land of any weeds or debris. Conduct soil testing to determine nutrient levels and adjust accordingly with lime if the soil is too acidic.
• Soil Fertility: Incorporate well-decomposed organic manure into the soil at a rate of about 5 tons per acre to enhance soil fertility and structure.

3. Irrigation

Irrigation is crucial, especially during the dry season. Drip irrigation is the most efficient method as it provides water directly to the roots, reducing wastage. Ensure the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive water can lead to root rot.

4. Spacing and Plant Density

• Spacing: Space the grafted passion fruit seedlings 2.5 meters apart along the rows and 3 meters between the rows.
• Plant Density: With the recommended spacing, you can plant approximately 550 seedlings per acre.

5. Digging Holes and Adding Manure

• Hole Preparation: Dig planting holes measuring 60 cm by 60 cm by 60 cm.
• Manure and Fertilizer: Mix the topsoil with 10-20 kg of well-decomposed manure and 200 grams of DAP fertilizer. Fill the holes with this mixture, leaving enough space to place the seedling.

6. Planting the Seedlings

• Plant the grafted passion fruit seedlings during the onset of the rainy season or when irrigation is available.
• Place the seedling in the hole and cover the roots with soil, ensuring the graft union is above the soil level to prevent infections.
• Firm the soil around the base of the seedling and water immediately after planting.

7. Trellising

Trellising is essential for supporting the passion fruit vines as they grow. Construct trellises using posts placed 3 meters apart along the rows. Run wires horizontally at about 1.5 to 2 meters above the ground. As the vines grow, train them along the wires to ensure even growth and fruit distribution.

8. Care and Maintenance

• Pruning: Regularly prune the vines to remove dead or diseased branches and to promote better air circulation.
• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor the plants for pests such as aphids and diseases like Fusarium wilt and control them promptly using recommended pesticides and fungicides.
• Fertilization: Top-dress with CAN (Calcium Ammonium Nitrate) at the rate of 200 grams per plant every three months.

9. Harvesting

Passion fruits are ready for harvest about 8-12 months after planting. The fruits should be harvested when they turn purple (for purple varieties) or yellow (for yellow varieties). Regular harvesting is recommended, as overripe fruits can drop and get damaged.

10. Expected Yield per Acre

• First Year: In the first year, you can expect an average yield of about 10-15 tons per acre.
• Subsequent Years: In the second and third years, the yield can increase to 15-20 tons per acre with proper care.

11. Expected Profits per Acre

• Revenue: If you sell the passion fruits at an average price of Ksh 70 per kilogram, and assuming a yield of 15 tons (15,000 kg), the gross income would be approximately Ksh 1,050,000 per acre.
• Costs: The costs involved in establishing and maintaining the crop for the first year, including seedlings, manure, fertilizers, pesticides, labor, and trellising, are estimated at Ksh 300,000 – Ksh 400,000 per acre.
• Net Profit: Subtracting the costs from the revenue, you can expect a net profit of about Ksh 650,000 – Ksh 750,000 per acre in the first year. In subsequent years, with reduced costs, profits can be even higher.