Capsicum farming in Kenya: improving yields using Maximizer and MagBoZinc Capsicum, commonly known as sweet pepper or hoho, is one of the most profitable vegetable crops grown by farmers across Kenya. It has a ready market, good farm gate prices and the advantage of continuous harvesting when well managed. However, achieving high yields and quality fruits depends heavily on proper crop nutrition, especially during flowering and fruit development. Capsicum is sensitive to nutrient imbalances. Even when the crop looks healthy in the early stages, hidden deficiencies can later lead to flower drop, poor fruit set, small fruits or uneven shape. This is why foliar nutrition plays an important role in supplementing soil fertilization. Two key products that support capsicum performance during critical growth stages are Maximizer and MagBoZinc. Basic requirements for successful capsicum farming Capsicum grows best in well drained, fertile soils with good organic matter. The crop prefers moderate temperatures and consistent moisture. Proper spacing, weed control, pest management and irrigation all contribute to good performance, but nutrition remains the foundation. After transplanting, capsicum needs enough nitrogen for leaf and stem development. As the plant approaches flowering, its demand shifts towards nutrients that support flowering, pollination and fruit formation. At this stage, relying on soil nutrients alone is often not enough, especially in intensively cultivated fields. The importance of balanced nutrition in capsicum Capsicum requires both macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium support vegetative growth, root development and fruit filling. Micronutrients such as magnesium, boron and zinc are required in smaller amounts but are equally important. When micronutrients are lacking, capsicum plants may appear green but still perform poorly. Flowers may abort, fruits may deform and overall yield may drop. Foliar feeding helps correct these shortages quickly because nutrients are absorbed directly through the leaves. What Maximizer does in capsicum farming Maximizer is a foliar fertilizer formulated to support flowering, fruit development and overall crop performance. It is best used from the pre flowering stage through early fruit set, when nutrient demand is high and the plant needs extra energy. Maximizer helps stimulate uniform flowering and improves fruit formation. This is important in capsicum because each flower represents a potential fruit. With better flower strength and retention, the plant sets more fruits and achieves higher yields. The nutrients in Maximizer support energy transfer within the plant, root strength and fruit development. Because it is applied as a foliar spray, the nutrients are absorbed quickly and used immediately by the plant. Farmers often notice improved plant vigor, better fruit size and more consistent harvests after application. Maximizer also helps plants cope better with stress conditions such as fluctuating temperatures, moisture stress or pressure from pests and diseases. This makes it a valuable input during critical production stages. The role of MagBoZinc in capsicum production MagBoZinc is a micronutrient foliar fertilizer that supplies magnesium, boron and zinc. These three nutrients play a major role in photosynthesis, flowering and fruit development. Magnesium is a key component of chlorophyll and supports efficient photosynthesis. When magnesium is deficient, leaves lose their deep green color and the plant’s energy production drops. Boron is essential for cell division, flower development and pollen viability. Adequate boron improves pollination and fruit set, reducing flower drop and misshapen fruits. Zinc supports enzyme activity and hormone balance within the plant. It contributes to healthy growth, strong shoots and proper flower development. Because MagBoZinc is applied through the leaves, it quickly corrects deficiencies before they cause irreversible yield loss. It is especially useful in soils that are heavily cultivated, sandy or naturally low in micronutrients. How to use Maximizer and MagBoZinc in capsicum After transplanting, farmers should focus on establishing a strong crop using appropriate basal fertilizers and good irrigation. Once plants are well established and approaching flowering, foliar feeding becomes important. Maximizer should be applied when flower buds begin to appear. This supports strong flowering, improves fruit set and enhances early fruit development. MagBoZinc can be applied during early flowering and again during early fruit formation to ensure that micronutrient needs are met throughout this critical period. These products can be used as part of a regular foliar program depending on crop condition, soil fertility and production goals. Always follow recommended rates and intervals for best results. What farmers can expect in the field With proper use of Maximizer and MagBoZinc, farmers often observe healthier plants with deeper green leaves, improved flowering and better fruit retention. Fruits tend to be more uniform in size and shape, making them more marketable. The crop also shows improved resilience, allowing it to maintain production over a longer harvesting period. This directly translates into better yields and improved income. Final thoughts Capsicum farming is a rewarding venture when managed correctly. While good soil preparation and irrigation are important, nutrition determines how well the crop flowers and fruits. Using foliar fertilizers like Maximizer and MagBoZinc helps fill nutritional gaps that soil fertilization alone may not address. When applied at the right time, these products support healthy flowering, strong fruit set and improved overall crop performance. For farmers aiming at high quality, market ready capsicum, investing in balanced nutrition is not optional. It is a key step towards consistent yields and profitable production.23 January 2026
by SeedPro Africa0 comments

Green Capsicum Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide Using Seedpro Solutions

Green capsicum, also known as green pepper or hoho, is one of the most profitable horticultural crops in Kenya. Demand is steady in local markets, hotels, and export chains because capsicum is used daily in homes and restaurants. However, good yields and quality fruits do not happen by chance. They come from proper soil preparation, correct planting, balanced nutrition, and timely crop care.

In this guide, we will walk through green capsicum farming step by step, with special focus on planting using DAP Plus, the role of organo‑mineral fertilizers, and how Seedpro foliar feeds such as Maximizer, Sure Cal, CalMagZinc, High Potassium, and Calci Topper support the crop from early growth to harvest.

1. Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Green capsicum performs best in well‑drained, fertile soils with a pH of 5.5–6.8. Avoid waterlogged areas as capsicum roots are sensitive to excess moisture. Choose a sunny location because capsicum needs at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.

Before planting, plough the land well and break large soil clods. If possible, carry out a soil test to understand nutrient levels and soil pH. This helps you apply the right fertilizer from the start. You can read more about the importance of soil testing on our page: Why Soil Testing Matters for Farmers.

2. Nursery Establishment and Transplanting

Capsicum is usually planted through seedlings raised in a nursery. Use certified seeds and plant them in a well‑prepared nursery bed or seedling trays. Seedlings are ready for transplanting after 4–6 weeks, when they have 4–6 true leaves.

Transplant in the evening or on a cloudy day to reduce transplant shock. Spacing is important. Recommended spacing is 60 cm by 45 cm to allow good airflow and reduce disease pressure.

3. Planting with DAP Plus: Why It Is the Best Choice

Understanding Organo-Mineral Fertilizers: What They Are and When to Use Them

At planting, nutrient availability is critical because young capsicum plants need strong roots to support later flowering and fruiting. This is where DAP Plus from Seedpro stands out.

DAP Plus is not just a regular phosphorus fertilizer. It is an organo‑mineral fertilizer, meaning it combines mineral nutrients with organic matter. This gives it several advantages:

  • High phosphorus content supports fast and strong root development
  • Organic matter improves soil structure and moisture retention
  • Nutrients are released more efficiently, reducing losses
  • Improves soil health over time, not just one season

When you apply DAP Plus in the planting hole or band it along the rows, seedlings establish faster, suffer less stress, and start vegetative growth earlier. Compared to conventional DAP, DAP Plus is gentler on young roots and supports beneficial soil microbes. Learn more about organo‑mineral fertilizers here: What Are Organo‑Mineral Fertilizers?.

4. The Role of Organo‑Mineral Nutrition in Capsicum Farming

Capsicum is a heavy feeder. It requires nitrogen for leaf growth, phosphorus for roots and flowers, potassium for fruit development, and secondary nutrients like calcium and magnesium for fruit quality.

Organo‑mineral fertilizers work best for capsicum because they:

  • Provide balanced nutrition
  • Improve nutrient uptake efficiency
  • Reduce fertilizer wastage
  • Enhance long‑term soil fertility

Seedpro products are designed to feed both the plant and the soil, ensuring sustainable production season after season.

5. Foliar Feeding: Boosting Growth and Yield

Even with good soil fertilization, foliar feeding is essential in capsicum farming. Foliar feeds correct nutrient deficiencies quickly and support the crop during critical stages.

a) Maximizer

Biostimulants in Kenya: Boosting Farm Productivity Naturally Modern farming in Kenya is changing fast, with farmers looking for better, safer, and more sustainable ways to improve crop performance

Maximizer is a powerful foliar feed that supports vigorous vegetative growth. It enhances chlorophyll formation, leading to deep green leaves and stronger plants. Apply Maximizer during early growth stages to help the plant build a strong canopy that supports high yields later.

b) Sure Cal

Calcium is very important in capsicum, especially for preventing blossom end rot. Sure Cal supplies readily available calcium, strengthening cell walls and improving fruit firmness. Regular application reduces fruit cracking and improves shelf life.

c) High Potassium Foliar

Potassium plays a major role in fruit size, color, and taste. Applying a high potassium foliar during flowering and fruit development increases fruit weight, improves uniformity, and enhances market quality. Potassium also improves the plant’s resistance to stress.

For more on foliar nutrition, you can also check this external resource from FAO: Plant Nutrition and Crop Performance.

6. Top Dressing with Calci Topper

Top dressing is another critical stage in capsicum farming. Calci Topper from Seedpro is ideal for this purpose. It supplies calcium, magnesium, nitrogen, and trace elements that support continuous growth and fruiting.

Benefits of using Calci Topper include:

  • Stronger stems and branches
  • Reduced flower and fruit drop
  • Improved fruit firmness and quality
  • Better nutrient balance in the soil

Apply Calci Topper during early flowering and repeat as advised by an agronomist for best results.

7. Water Management and General Care

Capsicum needs consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting. Avoid water stress as it leads to flower drop and poor fruit quality. Mulching helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Regular scouting for pests and diseases is important. Healthy, well‑fed plants are naturally more resistant to pests and diseases.

Conclusion

Green capsicum farming can be highly profitable when done correctly. Starting with proper planting using DAP Plus, embracing organo‑mineral fertilizers, and supporting the crop with the right Seedpro foliar feeds makes a big difference in yield and quality.

By feeding both the soil and the plant, Seedpro solutions help farmers achieve consistent production, better fruit quality, and long‑term soil health.

For guidance on product selection and application rates, visit the Seedpro Kenya website or talk to a Seedpro agronomist near you.

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