Onion Farming in Kenya is more than just agriculture- it is a vibrant tapestry of tradition, innovation, and economic promise. Across the rolling hills of Kieni, the arid plains of Kajiado and the fertile soils of Makueni, onion farming in Kenya has become a cornerstone of food security and commercial success. Among the many varieties transforming onion farming in Kenya, the Malbec F1 hybrid stands out as a game- changer. With its deep red bulbs, disease resistance and impressive yields, Malbec is redefining what is possible in onion farming in Kenya. This blog takes you on a journey through the world of Malbec onions, exploring why this variety is a favorite among farmers and how it is shaping the future of onion farming in Kenya. Whether you are a seasoned farmer or a curious foodie, buckle up for an exciting exploration of this remarkable crop!
BENEFITS OF MALBEC F1 ONION HYBRID VARIETIES
- High Yield Potential: Malbec can produce 15 tons per acre with proper management, far surpassing traditional varieties like Red Creole, which yield 5 tons per acre. This makes it a top choice for commercial farmers looking to maximize profits.
- Disease Resistance: Malbec is highly tolerant to diseases like Downy Mildew and Purple Blotch reducing the need for costly chemical treatments and ensuring healthier crops.
- Long Shelf Life: With a storage life of over 8 months when properly cured, Malbec onions maintain their quality and market value, making them ideal for both local and export markets.
- Market Appeal: The deep red color, strong pungency and firm texture of Malbec onions maintain their quality and market value making them ideal for both local and export markets.
SECRET BEHIND MALBEC`S SUCCESS
Malbec superiority lies in its hybrid genetics engineered to thrive in Kenya`s diverse climates. This variety matures in just 90 days from transplanting, making it one of the fastest maturing onions available. Its adaptability to cool and temperate regions, coupled with a strong root system allows it to perform well in cool areas. This variety tolerates diseases like pink rot ensures consistent yields even under challenging conditions.
STEP TO STEP GUIDE ON PLANTING MALBEC F1 ONION VARIETIES
1. SITE SELECTION AND SOIL PREPARATION:
IDEAL CONDITIONS:
- Soil Type: Well-drained loam or sandy loam
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- Climate: Prefers cool climate with moderate rainfall or irrigation
- SOIL PREPARATION:
- Deep plow and harrow to break clods
- Apply well-rotted manure or compost (1–2 tons per acre)
- Form raised beds for good drainage if in heavy soils.
2. SEEDLING NURSERY MANAGEMENT:
- Sow in raised nursery beds 1 meter wide, mix in fine compost
- Space rows ~10 cm apart
- Seed rate: ~400g per acre (produces ~100,000 seedlings)
- Lightly cover with soil and mulch with grass
- Water gently twice daily
Nursery Duration: 40–45 days until seedlings reach pencil thickness
3.TRANSPLANTING
- Transplant when seedlings are 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) tall
- Harden seedlings 3–5 days before transplant (reduce water, remove mulch)
- SPACING:
- Between plants: 10–12 cm
- Between rows: 15–20 cm
Best done in the evening or on cloudy days to reduce transplant shock
4. WATERING AND IRRIGATION
- Onions need consistent but moderate water
- Water 2–3 times per week depending on soil and weather
- Avoid overwatering, especially late in the season
- Stop irrigation 2 weeks before harvesting to allow bulbs to cure
5. PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL
COMMON PESTS:
- Thrips
- Onion maggots
- COMMON DISEASES:
- Downy mildew
- Purple blotch
Control measures:
- Rotate crops—avoid planting onions after other Allium crops
- Use certified disease-free seed
- Apply appropriate insecticides or fungicides early when needed
- Avoid overhead irrigation.
6.MATURITY AND HARVESTING
- Malbec F1 matures in 80–90 days from transplant
- Harvest when:
- 50–70% of tops fall over naturally
- Bulbs have well-developed necks and dried skins
Tip: Use a fork to gently loosen the soil and pull out bulbs by hand.
7.CURING AND STORAGE
- Cure in a dry, shaded, and well-ventilated area for 10–14 days
- Remove roots and trim tops to ~2 cm
- Store in mesh bags or ventilated crates in a cool, dry place
Malbec F1 can be stored for 6–8 months under proper conditions without sprouting or rotting.
Contact us for: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Germinated garlic cloves, Farm planning services, Soil testing, training on onion and garlic growing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. You can also check out our social media handles for daily updates on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oniondoctorke?_t=ZM-8wmsTu0qumO&_r=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oniondoctorke?igsh=MTVoaHF3aWUydTJzaQ==Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/16SwgYn2dG/ Youtube:https://youtube.com/@oniondoctorke?si=u5Jnd-r0qU9UDYqL and Twitter: https://x.com/OnionDoctorKe?t=FR3JXlS_oN1vjjUgAtfyzg&s=09