Food and income provision influence production of pumpkins in Kakamega and Nyeri in Kenya

Abstract

Pumpkin is an emerging important fruit-vegetable, although its potential remains unexploited in Kenya. This study aimed at enhancing conservation, preservation and production of naturalized pumpkins through characterisation of accessions and documentation of indigenous traditional knowledge influencing cultivation and utilization. An expedition in 2012 led to collection of 155 accessions belonging to Cucurbita moschata (Lam.) Poir.), with 70 from Kakamega and 85 from Nyeri. The variegated accessions were significantly (P 0.05) the most popular and highly utilized, compared to the exotic green-leafed ones. Significantly (P 0.05) more green-leafed accessions were collected in Nyeri, and variegated in Kakamega. They had significant (P 0.05) fruit shape and skin colour variation. Fruit-form ranged from ovate to globose or elliptical, and the predominant skin colour was dark to pale-green. Intercropping was significantly (P 0.05) the main cropping system. Food provision and income generation significantly (P < 0.05) influenced consumption and cultivation of the pumpkins. Most variegated accessions were inherited from past generations and have become naturalized. The green-leafed accessions were introduced by farmers and other stakeholders. Fruits and leaves were significantly (P< 0.05) utilized by farmers, compared to seeds and whole plants. The quality of fruits and leaves, cooking method and recipes were significantly (P< 0.05) considered by farmers when selecting accessions to cultivate. These factors were significant (P>0.05) in sustaining genetic diversity and conservation. Interventions to preserve positive factors and overcome constraining ones should be promoted to enhance growing of naturalised pumpkin for health creation and income generation.