Choosing seed for your altitude

The single biggest yield decision you make is the seed variety — and the right choice depends heavily on your altitude and how long your rains last.

Match maturity to your rains

Maize varieties are grouped by how long they take to mature. In the high-altitude areas around Nakuru, late-maturing varieties (say 5–8 months) reward you with bigger yields because the crop has a long, cool growing season. In drier or lower areas with short rains, a late variety can be caught by dry weather before the cobs fill — there, an early or medium variety is safer.

Certified seed pays for itself

• Buy certified seed from a registered agrodealer — recycled grain loses vigour and yield after the first season.
• Check the packing date and expiry on the packet before you pay.
• Keep the receipt: it matters for any germination complaint and for your farm records.