Growth and Yield of Vine Spinach (Basella alba L.) in Western Kenya

This book presents empirical research on optimizing agronomic practices for Basella alba, an indigenous leafy vegetable of high nutritional and economic value.Masombo Bwabi systematically evaluates the effects of spacing, trellising, and pruning on plant height, leaf production, branching, and biomass yield under field conditions in Bungoma and Busia counties. Using a Randomized Complete Block Design and statistical analysis with SAS mixed linear models, the study identifies trellising combined with double-stem pruning and 20 cm spacing as the most effective treatment for enhancing growth and dry matter yield.The results provide critical insights into the sustainable intensification of indigenous vegetable production, supporting food and nutrition security initiatives in Kenya and across Sub-Saharan Africa. This publication contributes valuable evidence for researchers, agronomists, and policymakers seeking to advance indigenous crop management and utilization.

Autorentext

Masombo Bwabi holds a Doctorate degree in Horticulture from the University of Eldoret, Kenya. His research focuses on improving the production of indigenous vegetables through sustainable agronomic practices. He has contributed to agricultural training and field research promoting food security and smallholder productivity in Western Kenya.