Rosecoco and other bean varieties to consider during planting season

Beans remain one of the most reliable crops for Kenyan farmers. They mature fast, improve soil fertility and offer both food and income.

But not all beans perform the same. Choosing the right variety can determine whether you harvest well or struggle with low yields.

Below are some of the best bean types to consider during the planting season, and why each one stands out.

Rosecoco beans (Kenya’s favourite market variety)

Rosecoco is one of the most popular beans in Kenya, especially for commercial farming.

It is easily recognised by its reddish, mottled appearance.

Farmers prefer rosecoco because it has high market demand and sells quickly.

It also cooks faster than many other beans, which makes it attractive to households.

In terms of farming, Rococo varieties such as GLP 2 and GLP 112 are known for good yields and disease tolerance.

However, they require proper spacing and pest control to perform well.

Yellow beans (fast cooking and family-friendly)

Yellow beans are a favourite in many homes because they cook quickly and have a softer texture.

For farmers, they offer short maturity periods, meaning you can harvest earlier compared to some traditional varieties. This makes them ideal for areas with shorter rainfall seasons.

They are also easier to digest, making them popular among families and increasing their market appeal.

Red kidney beans (strong demand and export value)

Red kidney beans are larger and darker, with a firm texture. They are widely used in hotels, restaurants and export markets.

Their key advantage is high value per kilogram, especially when well sorted and clean.

However, they may take slightly longer to cook and require good soil fertility for strong yields.

Farmers targeting premium markets often include kidney beans in their planting plan.

Wairimu beans (hardy and reliable)

Wairimu beans are well known for their ability to withstand tough conditions.

They perform better than wide varieties in areas with irregular rainfall.

They may not always fetch the highest price, but they offer consistency and food security, which is important for small-scale farmers.

They are also relatively resistant to some common bean diseases.

Mwezi moja (quick harvest option)

As the name suggests, mwezi moja beans are known for their short maturity period, sometimes ready in about a month to six weeks.

They are perfect for farmers who want quick returns or need to fit beans into a tight planting calendar.

However, yields may be lower compared to longer-maturing varieties, so they are best used strategically.

Why choosing the right bean matters

Each bean type serves a different purpose. Some are best for quick income, others for household consumption, and others for long-term profitability.

Before planting, consider:

• Your local climate and rainfall pattern
• Soil type and fertility
• Market demand in your area
• How quickly do you need to harvest

Beans are more than just a food crop. They are a source of income, nutrition and soil health.

By choosing the right variety, farmers can improve both their harvest and their profits each season.