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In Kenya, the primary onions cultivated are bulb onions and spring onions, each with unique characteristics and growing requirements. These crops are grown in optimal farming regions, including Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu.
Bulb Onions: High-Yield Crop with Lucrative Market Opportunities
Bulb onions require about 3 to 4 months to mature and benefit significantly from the short rains. Harvests occur around January and February, aligning with the reduced supply from Tanzania, which drives up prices and boosts profitability for Kenyan farmers. Following the long rains in March, bulb onions command higher prices, offering substantial profit margins.
Spring Onions: Easy Cultivation and Nutritional Benefits
Spring onions are simpler to grow and can even thrive in kitchen gardens. Popular in salads and as a seasoning, spring onions also provide health benefits, including improved blood sugar regulation and cholesterol reduction. Though less popular commercially than bulb onions, spring onions are known for their ease of cultivation.
Onion Farming Essentials: Soil, Temperature, and Key Varieties
Soil and Temperature Requirements
Onions thrive in well-drained, fertile sandy loam soils with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.8. The recommended growth temperature is between 13 and 35°C, suitable for most parts of Kenya. Onion Doctor suggests soil testing to optimize soil conditions and irrigation, especially in drier regions like Ukambani.
Key Onion Varieties
Common varieties include Red Coach F1 and Neptune F1—both prized for high yield and market appeal. Onion Doctor provides support to help farmers select the best variety for their specific conditions.
Challenges in Onion Farming and Solutions
- Water Management: Excessive rainfall or over-watering can lead to waterlogging. Drip irrigation, provided by Onion Doctor, helps avoid fungal diseases and optimizes water use.
- Disease Management: Onion crops are vulnerable to diseases such as Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, and Rusts. Farmers should use appropriate fungicides and consider crop rotation.
- Pest Control: Common pests, including maggots, thrips, and leaf miners, can be controlled with quality pesticides.
- Weed Control: Weed management is essential for onion health. Herbicides like Commander 240EC can be applied 10-14 days post-transplanting to keep weeds in check.
Harvesting Guidelines
Harvest during the dry season to ensure bulb quality. Bulb onions are ready for harvest when they develop a shiny membrane and foliage begins to wither. Spring onions are harvested at 15 cm in height and 1.5 cm in thickness. Onion Doctor recommends sun-drying harvested onions to extend shelf life.
How Onion Doctor Supports Smallholder Farmers
Onion Doctor provides resources and services to smallholder farmers across Africa, offering affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning, soil testing, and drip irrigation installation. By empowering farmers with knowledge and resources, Onion Doctor helps maximize crop yield and profitability.