At Vinfarm Solutions, we produce Azolla as part of our integrated farming system in Turbo, Eldoret. Azolla is a fast-growing aquatic fern that can be incorporated into livestock and poultry feeding systems as a supplementary feed — and because it grows on a relatively small area, it's a practical way to produce additional feed on limited land.
Azolla is a small floating aquatic fern that multiplies rapidly under suitable conditions. Farmers can cultivate it in shallow ponds or lined production beds and harvest it regularly for use as a supplementary feed.
At Vinfarm Solutions, Azolla forms part of our approach to integrated and efficient small-scale farming — one enterprise feeding into another rather than standing alone.
Azolla is a genus of small floating aquatic ferns. Several species occur worldwide, but their suitability for farming depends on climate, water quality and management.
A common tropical species widely distributed in Asia and Africa. It grows well in warm climates and is commonly used for livestock and poultry feed. This is the species we grow at Vinfarm.
A widely distributed species found in tropical and temperate regions. It is known for its rapid growth and can tolerate a range of environmental conditions. Fronds may turn reddish under stress or cooler temperatures.
A North American and Caribbean species. It has compact, overlapping fronds and is adapted to a range of climates. It is used in integrated farming systems, especially where it grows well.
An Asian species with imbricate (overlapping) fronds. It grows well in warm climates and is commonly cultivated in Asia for use as a green feed source.
It suits our warm conditions in Turbo, Eldoret and is the species we supply as seed and use in our training. The right species for you depends on your local climate, water quality and management system — proper management is key to getting the best results.
A supplementary feed that fits naturally into an integrated farm.
Multiplies rapidly given suitable water, nutrients, temperature and light.
Can be incorporated into poultry feeding systems as a supplementary ingredient.
Offered as part of a supplementary feeding program for waterfowl.
A supplementary protein source alongside the normal forage and concentrate ration.
Can form part of a circular system where farm resources and nutrients are reused.
Requires relatively little space compared with many conventional feed crops.
Vinfarm Solutions currently operates 14 Azolla ponds covering approximately 100.2 m². Our ponds are built in different sizes to make efficient use of available farm space.
| No. | Pond size | Area (m²) | No. of ponds | Total area (m²) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 × 2.3 m | 9.2 | 1 | 9.2 |
| 2 | 4 × 2 m | 8 | 2 | 16 |
| 3 | 4 × 3 m | 12 | 1 | 12 |
| 4 | 2 × 3 m | 6 | 2 | 12 |
| 5 | 3 × 2.5 m | 7.5 | 2 | 15 |
| 6 | 3 × 2 m | 6 | 6 | 36 |
| Total | 14 | 100.2 | ||
Target pH: 5.8–6.2. We monitor pond water regularly and avoid sudden pH changes — farmers should monitor their own water since pH, alkalinity, temperature and nutrient conditions vary between locations. If water becomes excessively acidic, correct it gradually rather than making a sudden large change.
Our production process, step by step.
Azolla should generally be viewed as a supplementary feed, not a replacement for a properly balanced livestock or poultry ration. How much to use should be adjusted according to:
For commercial livestock and poultry production, formulate the complete ration according to the animal's nutritional requirements — Azolla supplements it, it doesn't replace the maths.
Where Azolla fits across different species.
Supplementary feed for layers & broilers
Good supplementary feed source
Supports healthy growth
Alongside forage and concentrates
Supplementary protein source
Explored in aquaculture systems
Azolla can be used fresh or processed for storage.
Want to see Azolla production before starting your own system? Visit Vinfarm Solutions in Turbo, Eldoret and see our integrated farming system. We host farmers, student groups, organisations and development partners.
During a visit or training session, farmers can learn about:
Our current selling price is KSh 500 per kg.
Azolla can be produced in relatively small spaces. The area you need depends on your target production and the number of animals you want to supplement.
Yes. Azolla can be incorporated into poultry feeding systems as a supplementary feed, provided the overall ration remains nutritionally balanced.
Yes. Azolla can be used as a supplementary feed for ducks and geese.
Yes, alongside appropriate forage and other feeds — it's a supplement to the ration, not the whole ration.
A practical target for our production system is approximately pH 5.8–6.2.
Yes. Farmers, groups, students and organisations can arrange visits and training — book a visit here.
Vinfarm Solutions is an integrated farming and agribusiness demonstration farm. Our goal is to show farmers practical ways to combine different enterprises to make better use of land, labour and farm resources.
Dairy Goats · Dorper Sheep · Poultry · Ducks · Geese · Ornamental Birds · Pigs · Fodder Production · Azolla · Fish Farming · Mushrooms · Training & Agritourism
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