White Sapote Seedlings

White sapote seedlings are a rare find in Kenya, and their fruits are equally unique and uncommon in local markets. Known for their creamy, custard-like texture and sweet, tropical flavor, white sapote fruits offer a delightful taste experience that combines hints of banana, peach, and vanilla. At Virtual Agrovet, we are proud to provide high-quality white sapote seedlings for farmers and enthusiasts looking to grow this exotic fruit.

What Makes White Sapote Special?

White sapote (Casimiroa edulis) is a tropical fruit tree native to Central America but has adapted well to various climates, including Kenya’s. The tree is valued for its:

• Rare Fruits: White sapote fruits are not commonly found in local markets, making them a unique addition to your orchard or farm.
• Delicious Flavor: The fruits are creamy and sweet, often described as nature’s dessert due to their smooth, custard-like pulp.
• Nutritional Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and potassium, white sapote is a healthy addition to any diet.
• Ornamental Value: The tree’s lush green foliage and shade make it an excellent choice for landscaping.

Ecological Requirements for Growing White Sapote

Soil Type and pH

White sapote thrives in well-drained soils, preferably sandy loam or loam, rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 7.5.

Altitude

This tree grows well at altitudes of 0 to 2,000 meters above sea level, making it suitable for many regions in Kenya.

Temperature and Rainfall

• Temperature: White sapote prefers warm climates with temperatures between 18°C and 28°C.
• Rainfall: A moderate annual rainfall of 800 to 1,200 mm is ideal, but the tree is relatively drought-tolerant once established.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting White Sapote

1. Land Preparation

• Clear the Land: Remove all weeds and debris to prepare the planting area.
• Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil as necessary.

2. Hole Preparation

• Hole Dimensions: Dig planting holes measuring 60 cm by 60 cm by 60 cm.
• Spacing: Maintain a spacing of 5 meters by 5 meters to allow for the tree’s wide canopy.
• Soil Enrichment: Mix the topsoil with 20 kg of well-decomposed manure and 200 grams of DAP fertilizer.

3. Planting the Seedlings

• Carefully remove the seedling from its nursery bag without disturbing the root ball.
• Place the seedling in the center of the hole and backfill with the enriched soil.
• Firm the soil around the base and water thoroughly.

4. Mulching

Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Care and Maintenance

1. Irrigation

White sapote trees require consistent watering during their first year to establish strong roots. Afterward, they can tolerate periods of drought but benefit from supplemental irrigation during dry spells.

2. Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., NPK 10:10:10) twice a year.
• During fruiting, switch to a fertilizer rich in potassium to enhance fruit quality.

3. Pruning

Prune the tree regularly to maintain a manageable size and remove dead or diseased branches.

4. Pest and Disease Management

• Pests: Watch out for aphids, scale insects, and fruit flies. Use appropriate organic or chemical controls.
• Diseases: The tree is generally hardy but can occasionally suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils.

5. Weed Control

Regularly clear weeds around the tree base to reduce competition for nutrients and water.

Expected Yields and Returns

Yield Per Tree

A mature white sapote tree can produce 100 to 200 kilograms of fruit annually.

Yield Per Acre

With a spacing of 5 meters by 5 meters, you can plant approximately 160 trees per acre, resulting in a yield of 16,000 to 32,000 kilograms per acre annually.

Revenue Estimation

Assuming a market price of Ksh 200 per kilogram, here is the revenue projection:

Challenges in Growing White Sapote

1. Limited Awareness

White sapote is relatively unknown in Kenya, which can make marketing a challenge.

2. Water Requirements

Young trees require consistent watering, which can be demanding in arid regions.

3. Pest and Disease Management

While generally hardy, the tree can be affected by pests like fruit flies, which require active management.

4. Limited Seedling Availability

White sapote seedlings are rare, making them a valuable but hard-to-find resource.

Why Choose Virtual Agrovet?

• Premium Quality Seedlings: Our white sapote seedlings are carefully propagated to ensure high survival rates and excellent fruit production.
• Expert Guidance: We provide detailed cultivation guides and ongoing support to help you succeed.
• Affordable Prices: Despite their rarity, we offer competitive prices for our seedlings.

Get in Touch

Ready to grow this rare and delicious fruit? Contact us today to order your white sapote seedlings:

• 0790509684
• 0724559286

At Virtual Agrovet, we are committed to bringing you rare and valuable opportunities in agribusiness. Don’t miss out on the chance to grow white sap