2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Beans in Kenya
Complete guide to growing beans in Kenya with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the beans growing season in Kenya.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
18°C (65°F) minimum
Growing Period
60-90 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing beans in Kenya.
January - February
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
March - April
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
May - June
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
July - August
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
September - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Beans Varieties for Kenya
These varieties have proven performance in Kenya's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | KAT B1 | Kenya climate |
| 2 | KAT B9 | Kenya climate |
| 3 | Rose Coco | Kenya climate |
| 4 | Mwezi Moja | Kenya climate |
Growing Tips for Kenya
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Kenya farmers.
Beans are staple food crop — grown by 75% of smallholders
Intercrop with maize is traditional system
Anthracnose and bean stem maggot are major issues
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Mexican bean beetle
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Bean leaf beetle
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Whiteflies
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Root rot
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside beans, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
Kenya has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant beans in Kenya?
The optimal planting window for beans in Kenya is March 15 to April 30. Soil temperature should reach at least 18°C (65°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 60-90 days.
What varieties of beans grow best in Kenya?
The best varieties for Kenya include KAT B1, KAT B9, Rose Coco, Mwezi Moja. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest beans in Kenya?
The harvest window for beans in Kenya is typically July 1 to August 31. The crop takes 60-90 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), FAO Kenya, and county extension offices. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.