How my tree cloning nursery became a big money spinner
Tree nursery supervisor Joseph Idalia cutting eucalyptus mother plant into small cuttings on October 31, 2024 at Tree Biotechnology Trust in Karura forest.
Had you told Benson Kanyi two decades ago that he would one day be running a 15-acre nursery full of lush greenery, he would have laughed it off.
In late 1990s, the Tree Biotechnology Nursery was merely a hopeful concept, with little more than a plantation of eucalyptus saligna, planted in 1955, as evidence of its potential. At the time, there was talk of science transforming barren land into lush ecosystems, but such visions seemed a long way off.
Today, the nursery, known simply as Tree Biotech, is a vibrant hub of greenery and innovation.
"Back then, the land was nothing more than a neglected scrub and the remains of abandoned settlements. With age and minimal management, the plantation was invaded by bushes and colonising plants," says Mr Kanyi.
"The stumps were so dense that even chainsaws couldn't cut through them," he adds. "There were no indigenous trees on the site because it was against policy and law to cut down or destroy indigenous forests."
For the past 24 years, Mr Kanyi and his team have been rejuvenating the soil, enriching it with nutrients, and using advances in biotechnology to transform the overgrown landscape into fertile soil.
Tree Biotech is no longer just a vision - it is a thriving testament to the marriage of nature and science.
The nursery specialises in cloning and hybridising Grandis Camaldulensis eucalyptus seedlings, originally imported from South Africa, using genetic science to produce fast-growing, drought-resistant trees tailored to Kenya's variable climate.
"Progress was slow at first: a few experimental greenhouses, a modest research laboratory, and trial plantings under careful observation. Gradually, vibrant patches of green began to spread. Trees grew taller, native flowers reappeared, and the landscape came alive," says Mr Kanyi.
Situated on the tranquil grounds of the Kenya Forest Research Institute (Kefri) in Karura, Tree Biotech is a haven for botanists, environmentalists, and nature lovers. Surrounded by the lush Karura Forest, it serves as both a laboratory and a sanctuary dedicated to reforestation and ecosystem conservation.
Walking through the nursery, visitors encounter rows of saplings destined to become towering trees, each carefully selected for its ecological benefits.
Joseph Idalia, the nursery's operations manager, uses cutting-edge biotechnology to develop resilient trees that combat soil erosion, sequester carbon and provide habitat for wildlife.
"Cloning is a bold endeavour. Traditionally, it took up to 16 years to develop new tree hybrids. Tree Biotech has shortened this process through science," explains Mr Kanyi.
Hybrid eucalyptus cloning process
Mr Idalia, an experienced plant technician with eight years of experience at the nursery, explains the cloning process:
The transformation begins with the careful selection of mother trees from local varieties with desirable characteristics—high resistance to drought, rapid growth, and dense wood.
Once planted, these mother trees are nurtured and pruned to stimulate the growth of new shoots, which are then harvested like tea leaves.
These cuttings then become the next generation, rooted through a meticulous process of hormone treatments and placed in vermiculite to encourage growth.
Tree nursery supervisor Joseph Idalia applies rooting powder to a eucalyptus cutting on October 31, 2024 at Tree Biotechnology Trust in Karura forest.
Photo credit: Billy Ogada | Nation Media Group
Within 40 to 45 days, the cuttings develop roots and are then transferred to hardening beds to grow into mature seedlings.
The nursery has produced nearly eight million seedlings, which are sold nationwide for Sh20 each. Despite rising costs, prices for communities and industries have remained the same.
"When the rains come, the nursery becomes a hive of activity. Farmers, developers and industry leaders line up to secure seedlings," says Mr Kanyi.
Many visitors come not just to buy, but to witness the transformation of the nursery and connect with its vision of a greener future. Looking to the future, Tree Biotech aims to redefine the perception of wood.
"With bamboo and eucalyptus, we are exploring their use in multi-storey construction—a sustainable, soundproof alternative to traditional materials," says Mr Kinya.
Beyond eucalyptus: Bamboo and biodiversity
The nursery has expanded to include high-density Bambusa bamboo from China, with 100,000 seedlings available. These grow to 70 feet in six years and are ideal for building boards. A single rhizome costs Sh120.
The nursery is also blossoming with fruit and flower seedlings grown in greenhouses. Citrus trees, roses, lilies and orchids add colour and variety to the farm. Ornamental and indigenous trees such as Olea Africana, Acacia, Jacaranda, Cassia and Neem are also grown, along with herbs such as Thyme and Lavender. Seedlings cost between Sh15 and Sh250, depending on the variety.
"To replant, dig a one-foot hole, and mix half a kilogramme of organic manure with the soil and water regularly. Containers work well for apartments, provided the soil is kept moist," advises Mr Idalia.
As well as growing plants, these greenhouses inspire customers to design landscapes or orchards. They demonstrate the nursery's commitment to combining science, beauty, and biodiversity.
A greener future
Tree Biotech Nursery is a living testament to innovation and determination. Its vibrant gardens, advanced laboratories, and thriving fields symbolise the power of human ingenuity in the fight against climate change.
"Our work is led by a small but passionate team. Forestry is evolving through hybridisation, cloning, and genomic technology to meet local and regional needs sustainably," says Mr Kinya.
Tree Biotech Nursery is not just a place - it is a movement towards a sustainable, greener future.
"This nursery is more than a planting ground; it's a centre of learning and innovation, where tradition and innovation come together.
