Frequent droughts experienced in Kenya have increased the significance of drought-resistant maize varieties.
Plant breeders develop these varieties to withstand harsh weather conditions, including prolonged dry spells, to ensure that farmers can achieve reasonable yields despite unfavorable weather patterns.
Here are 10 drought-resistant maize varieties in Kenya.
1. KDV4
KDV4 is one of the most popular drought-resistant maize varieties in Kenya.
The variety is well-known for its ability to thrive in areas with low rainfall and poor soil quality.
Farmers who have planted this variety have reported excellent yields, even during drought.
2. DH01
DH01 is a hybrid maize variety known for its drought tolerance.
It has been developed by the Kenya Seed Company Limited and is a favorite among farmers in arid and semi-arid areas.
DH01 has a high yield potential; farmers can expect to harvest up to 14 bags per acre.
3. DH02
DH02 is another hybrid maize variety developed by Kenya Seed Company Limited.
This variety is also highly tolerant to drought and can withstand long periods of dry weather.
DH02 has a high yield potential, with farmers reporting yields of up to 14 bags per acre.
4. DH03
DH03 is a drought-tolerant maize variety developed specifically in semi-arid parts of Kenya.
It is resistant to blight and MSV and can withstand poor soil conditions.
Farmers who have planted DH03 have reported high yields, even during drought seasons.
5. DH04
DH04 is a hybrid maize variety that has been developed to exhibit a solid tolerance to brief periods of drought.
It matures within a relatively short timeframe of 80 to 120 days, making it ideal for farmers looking to reap a harvest in a timely fashion.
Additionally, DH04 has been noted for its high yield potential, with farmers typically reporting yields of up to 24 bags per acre.
6. WE1101
Breeders developed WE1101, a type of maize that withstands dry conditions and qualifies as a drought-resistant variety.
It has a maturity period of six to eight months, and its yield potential can reach up to 24 bags per acre.
As such, this maize variety is an excellent option for farmers who want to cultivate crops in areas with low rainfall and soil of poor quality.
7. WE2109
Plant breeders developed WE2109, another maize variety, to exhibit high drought resistance, allowing it to endure long periods of dry weather without experiencing notable reductions in yield.
8. KDV-1 (OPV)
KDV-1 (OPV) is an open-pollinated variety of maize.
Kenyan breeders developed it as a component of the Katumani composite9, which is highly suitable for regions with low altitudes and limited water availability.
The maturity period of this variety ranges from 75 to 90 days, and it produces an average yield of 25 to 30 bags per acre.
9. KDV-2 (OPV)
KDV-2 (OPV) is another open-pollinated maize variety highly tolerant to drought.
This variety has a high yield potential; farmers can expect to harvest up to 17 bags per acre.
10. DUMA43
DUMA43 is a maize variety that can endure prolonged periods of drought and is ideal for regions with limited rainfall.
It reaches maturity within 85 to 90 days and can yield 30 to 32 bags (90 kg) per acre when grown with good agricultural practices.
