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Onion farming is a thriving venture in Kenya, with an expanding market that promises substantial profits. This guide will take you through the steps of growing onions successfully and turning it into a profitable endeavor. Let’s explore the key aspects of onion farming, from the ideal planting season to the best varieties, land preparation, planting methods, and essential practices.
Season for Planting Onions: Onions thrive when planted during the mid-rainy season, with a recommended temperature range of 20 to 27°C. Optimal planting time is from April to July, with May and June considered the best months. Onions can withstand cold conditions but perform best in warm soil under full sun.
Choosing the Best Onion Varieties for Kenyan Soil: Common Onion Varieties: Red Onion: Known for its milder taste and vibrant color. Yellow Onion: Offers a strong flavor suitable for various recipes. White Onion: With a milder flavor, ideal for sauces and condiments.
Local and Hybrid Onion Varieties in Kenya: Local varieties like Red Creole, Texas Grano, and Bombay Red. Hybrid onion varieties including Red Nice F1, Rasta F1, and others.
Land Preparation: The Foundation of Successful Onion Farming:
Organic vs. Conventional Practices: Decide between organic or conventional methods for land preparation. Organic practices involve crop rotation and cover crops, while conventional methods use mechanical cultivation.
Soil Preparation Steps: Remove rocks and debris from the soil. Add compost or fertilizer to enrich the soil. Ensure your soil is free from rocks or stones to prevent damage during harvest.
Planting and Spacing: A Crucial Part of Onion Farming:
Planting Methods: Onions can be planted as soon as the soil is workable during the rainy season. In cold climates, start them indoors four weeks before the last frost. Plant them 1-2 inches deep and space them 4-6 inches apart, with rows 6 inches apart.
Harvesting and Storing Onions: The Key to Long-Term Enjoyment: Harvesting Onions: Harvest when leaves lose color and start drying. Allow onions to remain in the ground for about 10 days for full maturation.
Storing Onions: Cure onions in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Avoid wet or moldy conditions during storage.
Onion Doctor is dedicated to supporting smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic guidance, onion and garlic value packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training. We’re here to help you maximize yields and profits.