GARLIC FARMING IN KENYA:GROWING GARLIC IN A KITCHEN GARDEN
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Growing garlic in a kitchen garden can be a rewarding experience. Garlic is relatively easy to grow, and it doesn't require a large amount of space. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grow garlic in your kitchen garden:
Varieties
Soft-neck is the most popular and characterizes by a white, paper-like skin with a fairly strong taste and pungent smell.
Hard-neck characterizes with a tan and purple markings. It is a variety that produces bigger and fewer cloves on each head.
Preparing the Soil
Prepare the garden, break the ground, remove the weeds to avoid competition of nutrients in the soil.
The most important considerations for soil when it comes to planting garlic are soil structure and soil fertility. With soil structure, you want to make sure your soil isn’t too heavy (clay) or too light (sand)for this we offer soil testing. Retaining water using our quality Drip irrigation system and nutrients prevents the soil not to be waterlogged.
Planting Time
Garlic can be planted any month of the year with proper irrigation. It takes 4-5 months after planting to be mature.
Planting Depth and Spacing
Plant the garlic cloves about 2 inches deep, with the pointed end facing upward. Space the cloves about 4 to 6 inches apart in rows, and leave around 12 inches between rows. This spacing will allow the bulbs to develop properly.
Mulching
After planting, apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to protect the garlic from extreme temperatures and weed growth. Mulching also helps retain moisture in the soil.
Watering
Garlic needs consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. . One inch of water or rainfall a week is needed for optimal growth. Garlic prefers even moisture. Uneven moisture will cause irregular shaped bulbs. Drip irrigation works best for garlic and for water conservation. we offer Drip Irrigation system and Drip installation.
Fertilizing
Garlic plants benefit from a balanced fertilizer application. About a month after planting, you can side-dress the plants with a slow-release organic fertilizer .Fertilizing your garlic can occur either by side dressing or broadcasting fertilizer over the entire bed. The best garlic plant fertilizer will be high in nitrogen, those containing blood meal or a synthetic source of nitrogen. To side-dress, work the fertilizer in an inch (2.5 cm.) down or so and about 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm.) from the plant. Fertilize every three to four weeks.
Removing Scapes
Hard-neck garlic varieties produce scapes, which are curly, flower-like stalks that emerge from the plant. To encourage larger bulb formation, it's recommended to snap off the scapes when they appear. Scapes are edible and can be used in cooking.
Harvesting
Garlic is typically ready for harvest when the lower leaves start turning yellow and drying out. Lift the bulbs gently from the soil using a garden fork, being careful not to damage them. Allow the bulbs to cure by drying them in a warm, well-ventilated area for a few weeks.
Storing
Once the garlic bulbs are fully cured, brush off any loose soil and trim the roots and foliage. Store the garlic in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.
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