Ravi Patel and Naren Patel at the FlowersExpo in Moscow, Russia.
Subati Group currently grows roses in greenhouses spanning 86 ha. In the coming years, they want to increase the flower acreage to 100 ha and add herbs to their assortment. "We will remain in the flower business, but we decided to diversify our assortment with other products", says Naren Patel, owner of the company.
The new 20 ha greenhouse, in which they will grow basil, tarragon and mint, is located in Kibwezi and is currently being built. The greenhouse is similar to their rose greenhouses. According to Patel, there is a lot of potential for cultivating herbs in Kenya, however there are not many growers. "The Kenyan climate is excellent, and the logistics to Europe are already set. There are just a few herb growers in Kenya mainly because of the sensitivity of the product'', says Patel
Patel has many years of experience in growing roses, however growing herbs is something new. "We are not experienced in growing herbs, so we hired consultants that will support us with starting up the company", he says. And when the company is up and running, they will supply the wholesalers in Europe.
Next to herbs, Subati Group also started growing fruits, which they are planning to harvest in five years. "We just planted mango and pomegranate trees in the open fields. It will take about five years till we can harvest the fruits", he says.
For more information
Subati Group
Naren Patel
Email: naren@subatiflowers.com
www.subatiflowers.com