Written by Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. In Kenya, the main types of onions farmed are bulb onions and spring onions, each with distinct characteristics, cultivation needs, and market advantages. With expert guidance from Onion Doctor, farmers can optimize their yields and tap into the profitable onion market. Types of Onions in Kenya Onion Farming Requirements For successful onion farming in Kenya, onions should be grown in fertile, sandy loam soil with good drainage and a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Throughout the year, Onion Doctor offers quality seedlings, soil testing, and other support services for Kenyan farmers. Key farming requirements: Popular onion seed varieties in Kenya include: How to Plant Onions: Steps from Nursery to Transplanting To maximize your yield, Onion Doctor recommends starting onions in a nursery bed. Here’s how: In the field, onions grow best in raised beds or rows, spaced 5 inches apart and 12-17 inches between rows. Ensure the soil remains loose for optimal bulb growth. Challenges in Onion Farming and How to Overcome Them Harvesting Onions: Timing for Maximum Profit Harvesting onions during the dry season is ideal to prevent rotting. Keep a calendar to track the best harvesting time: Pull the onions, trim leaves, and sun-dry them before storage. How Onion Doctor Supports Farmers in Kenya As the go-to resource for smallholder farmers, Onion Doctor offers:
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Onion farming in Kenya faces several challenges, including government policies that restrict the cultivation of high-breed seeds, as well as taxes and regulations that increase the cost of horticultural farming. Despite these obstacles, the demand for bulb onions continues to rise, making it a lucrative commercial crop, especially for smallholder farmers. Why Bulb Onion Farming Is a Smart Investment in Kenya The Red Bulb Onion, in particular, is growing in popularity as farmers work to bridge the gap in supply. Key onion-growing regions in Kenya include: Bulb onions mature within 3 to 4 months, making them ideal for cultivation during Kenya’s short rainy season. This timing allows for harvests between January and February, creating a profitable window as the onion supply from Tanzania decreases. After the long rains in March, onion prices rise, providing farmers with higher profit margins. Spring onions, though simpler to grow and suited for kitchen gardens, are less popular commercially. However, they offer numerous health benefits, such as regulating blood sugar and lowering cholesterol. Between the two types, bulb onions stand out for their longer shelf life and sweet taste, making them the preferred choice in the Kenyan market. Notable varieties include: Farming Guidelines for Bulb Onions in Kenya Onions thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Through proper irrigation systems like those provided by Onion Doctor, onions can be cultivated year-round. For optimal growth, temperatures should range from 13 to 35°C. In hotter regions like Ukambani and parts of the coast, farmers should invest in greenhouses and drip irrigation systems to regulate temperature and water supply. Onion Doctor recommends soil testing by accredited laboratories to ensure the right soil conditions. Necessary inputs include: Popular hybrid onion varieties in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 being highly preferred for its excellent yield, size, and color. Overcoming Challenges in Onion Farming Harvesting Guidelines for Onions Bulb onions are ready for harvest when the foliage withers and the bulbs develop a shiny outer layer. Spring onions should be harvested when they reach 15 cm in height and 1.5 cm in thickness. The harvesting process involves pulling the bulbs, cutting off the leaves, and drying them in the sun before storage. Onion Doctor encourages farmers to maintain a calendar to track essential farming stages and ensure timely harvests. How Onion Doctor Supports Farmers Onion Doctor offers comprehensive support to smallholder farmers across Africa, providing: By partnering with Onion Doctor, farmers can optimize yields, improve water efficiency with drip irrigation, and successfully meet the growing demand for bulb onions in Kenya.
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Bulb onions have a significant market demand in Kenya, primarily driven by small-scale cultivation. However, the produce from local farmers is insufficient to meet the rising demand for onion bulbs. Low production stems from poor onion farming practices and unfavorable growing conditions in many regions. Optimal Conditions for Growing Bulb Onions in Kenya To grow bulb onions successfully in Kenya, certain conditions must be met: Varieties of Bulb Onions to Grow in Kenya Popular onion varieties in Kenya include: Essential Steps for Growing Bulb Onions in Kenya 1. Seedling Propagation Successful onion farming begins with effective seedling propagation. Onion Doctor recommends using either seedling beds or seedling trays for propagation. How to Propagate Seedlings in Beds How to Propagate Seedlings in Trays 2. Transplanting the Seedlings Once seedlings reach about 15 cm in height (after 6 weeks), they are ready for transplanting. Onion Doctor advises transplanting seedlings into holes 10-15 cm deep and 15 cm apart. Water immediately after transplanting and ensure continuous irrigation. Why Use an Onion Doctor Drip Irrigation Kit In some regions, rainfall is insufficient to grow bulb onions effectively. Drip irrigation is highly recommended to provide onions with the precise amount of water they need. Onion Doctor offers specialized drip irrigation kits designed for onion farming, ensuring efficient water usage and improved yields. Tips for Growing and Watering Bulb Onions How to Grow and Harvest Onions at the Right Time To meet the high market demand for onions in Kenya, it’s essential to plant at the right time. Onion Doctor suggests planting in August and harvesting in December. Harvest on dry days to avoid bulb rot, and begin when the leaves die, indicating the bulbs are ready. Common Challenges and Solutions for Growing Bulb Onions in Kenya How Onion Doctor Supports Farmers Onion Doctor assists smallholder farmers across Africa with high-quality, affordable onion and garlic seedlings. We offer services like: By partnering with Onion Doctor, farmers can optimize their yields, grow bulb onions more efficiently, and meet Kenya’s high market demand.
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Why Onion Farming is Profitable in Kenya One of the key reasons behind the success of onion farming in Kenya is the high demand in both local and international markets. Onions are a staple in most Kenyan households, making them a must-have crop. Additionally, the global demand offers opportunities for export, allowing farmers to increase their income streams. Key Factors for Profitable Onion Farming To maximize profits, farmers need to adopt best farming practices such as: The Jambar F1 Onion Variety stands out for its uniform size, high yield, and disease resistance. It matures in four months and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. Its long shelf life makes it suitable for both local markets and export. 2. Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety Known for its deep red color and high yield, the Red Pinnoy F1 Onion matures in four months and is ideal for farmers targeting high-end and gourmet markets. It is resistant to common diseases like downy mildew and purple blotch. 3. Bombay Red Onion Variety The Bombay Red Onion Variety is perfect for export due to its long shelf life and strong flavor. It matures in 120–150 days and yields up to 25 tonnes per acre. 4. Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety This variety is known for its sweet flavor and large size, making it popular in local markets. The Texas Grano 502 Onion matures in 110–120 days and yields 30 tonnes per acre 5. Red Creole Onion Variety The Red Creole Onion is known for its disease resistance and ability to yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. It’s a great choice for export markets, particularly for farmers seeking a mild-flavored onion variety. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.
Onion Farming in Kenya Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Onion farming in Kenya has become a thriving agricultural venture, especially in regions such as Naivasha, Kajiado, Meru, and Oloitoktok. These areas provide ideal conditions for onion growth due to their hot, dry climate. With the increasing demand for onions, prices can reach as high as 100 KSh per kilogram at retail, though wholesale prices (farm gate) typically range between 30 and 40 KSh per kilogram. However, in some instances, farm gate prices can fall to 20 KSh per kilogram, emphasizing the need for market timing. At Onion Doctor, we guide farmers on how to maximize profits by offering expert advice on market research, soil testing, and optimal farming techniques. Soil Testing: The Foundation for Success To succeed in onion farming, performing a soil test is crucial. Soil tests help determine: Land Preparation for Onion Farmin Location and Climate:Onions thrive in altitudes of 500–2000 meters above sea level and require a rainfall range of 500–700mm annually. Excess rainfall can cause onion bulbs to rot, so it’s essential to control water levels. Soil:Onions grow best in well-drained soils with good water-holding capacity. For optimal results, plow the land three weeks before planting, followed by harrowing at least three times to create a fine soil structure. Enrich the soil with 40 tonnes of organic manure per hectare, or use organic fertilizers like Safi Sarvi if manure is unavailable. Safi Sarvi is an excellent choice for acidic soils, offering higher yields and income potential. Onion Propagation and Planting Choosing the right seed variety is key to success. Before planting, test the germination rate of your seeds to ensure they are viable. A germination rate of 70% or higher indicates that the seeds are suitable for planting. Nursery Management:To reduce soil-borne diseases, solarize the nursery bed during the hottest part of the day. Ensure that the nursery site is free of debris, has a gentle slope for proper drainage, and is located near a water source. For a one-hectare onion farm, allocate 0.05 hectares for seedling propagation. Seedling Care:Mulching and weeding are essential to protect young onion seedlings. Avoid flat beds as they may lead to seed washout. Use raised beds and treat the seeds before planting to improve germination rates. Best Fertilizer for Onion Farming Onion Doctor recommends using fertilizers tailored to meet onions’ specific nutrient requirements: Onion Varieties for Kenyan Farmers Selecting the right onion variety is crucial to your farming success. Onion Doctor recommends the following varieties for Kenyan farmers: Common Onion Diseases and Their Control Purple Blotch DiseaseA common issue in Kenyan onion farms, Purple Blotch starts as small, watery lesions that turn brownish-purple. The disease spreads through infected plant debris and thrives in wet conditions. To control it: Pink Root DiseaseCharacterized by nutrient deficiency and light pink roots, Pink Root can remain in the soil as dormant spores. Control this disease by using pink root-resistant varieties and practicing crop rotation every four years. Bacterial Soft RotThis disease causes leaves to wilt and scales to become soft and watery. Proper farm hygiene and avoiding excess moisture are crucial for controlling bacterial soft rot. Onion Doctor: Your Onion Farming Partner At Onion Doctor, we provide comprehensive solutions to help Kenyan farmers succeed in onion farming. From selecting the right seed variety to disease management, Onion Doctor ensures your farm thrives. Whether you’re farming for local markets or export, we support you with expert advice, soil testing, drip irrigation systems, and high-quality seedlings.
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Onion farming in Kenya has become an increasingly popular venture for both domestic and commercial farmers. The high market demand for onion bulbs motivates many farmers to pursue this crop. However, achieving high production levels often eludes many due to common farming malpractices. At Onion Doctor, we offer innovative solutions and support to ensure farmers maximize yields, including the use of drip irrigation systems and expert agronomic advice. Benefits of Onion Farming in Kenya Onions are a staple in Kenyan cuisine, making them a high-demand vegetable throughout the year. They are also nutrient-rich and low in calories, providing health benefits such as lowering blood pressure. With the right farming techniques, growing onions in Kenya can be a profitable venture, and Onion Doctor is here to guide you through the process. Popular Onion Varieties in Kenya Kenya is ideal for growing various types of onions, including Red Creole, Red Pinny, Jambar 1, and Red Bombay. Among these, Red Creole is the most popular for its high yield and adaptability to Kenya’s climate. Whether you’re growing onions for local markets or export, Onion Doctor provides high-quality onion seedlings and agronomic support for the best results. Ideal Conditions for Onion Farming Successful onion farming requires specific growing conditions: At Onion Doctor, we emphasize the importance of soil testing and proper land preparation to ensure your onion farm is set up for success. Drip Irrigation: A Game Changer for Onion Farming Onions require consistent and precise watering, which makes drip irrigation the best method for ensuring water efficiency and high yields. Onion Doctor offers affordable drip irrigation kits tailored to meet the specific needs of onion farmers. The drip system components include: Setting up a drip irrigation system on flat land is highly recommended for ensuring uniform water distribution across your farm. Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Onion Seedlings Starting your own onion seedlings can be cost-effective and ensure better control over the quality. Here’s a DIY guide for seed propagation: At Onion Doctor, we provide high-quality onion seedlings and expert guidance on nursery management to help you succeed from the start. Transplanting and Fertilization After 4–6 weeks of growth, onion seedlings are ready for transplanting. Ideal planting holes should be 15 cm deep and spaced 20 cm apart. To enhance soil fertility, incorporate DAP fertilizer during transplanting for optimal growth and bulb formation. Overcoming Challenges in Onion Farming While onion farming offers great potential, it also comes with challenges. Here are the most common issues and how to address them: Onion Doctor: Your Partner in Onion Farming Success At Onion Doctor, our goal is to help farmers across Kenya achieve high yields and maximize profits through sustainable practices. Our services include high-quality onion seedlings, drip irrigation kits, agronomic visits, and market linkages. Whether you are growing onions for local or export markets, Onion Doctor is here to support you every step of the way.
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Kenya is home to two major types of onions: bulb onions and spring onions. These versatile crops thrive in various regions, including Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu. With the right farming techniques, you can maximize yields and profits year-round. Onion Doctor is here to guide you on your onion farming journey, from soil preparation to harvest. Bulb Onions: Best Harvest Seasons and Profitability Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to mature, and farmers who grow them during the short rains can harvest between January and February. This period is highly lucrative, as there is low supply from neighboring Tanzania. Farmers who plan to harvest after the long rains in March enjoy increased onion prices, ensuring great profit margins. Spring Onions: Easy to Grow, Nutrient-Packed Spring onions, on the other hand, are incredibly easy to grow—even in your kitchen garden. Frequently used in salads and soups, they boast health benefits like lowering blood sugar and reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. Their short growth period and multiple uses make them a popular choice for home and commercial growers alike. Bulb vs. Spring Onions: Popularity and Market Demand Bulb onions tend to be more popular than spring onions, primarily due to their longer shelf life and sweet taste. In Kenya, two key varieties dominate the market: Ideal Conditions for Onion Farming Onions flourish in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils with a pH between 5.8 and 6.8. To ensure year-round growth, irrigation systems are essential. Conducting soil tests with accredited labs is recommended to optimize growth. For temperature control, especially in hot areas like Ukambani and coastal regions, greenhouses and drip irrigation systems are necessary. These systems help regulate temperature and water supply for optimal yields. Onion Doctor offers expert guidance on setting up these systems to ensure your onions thrive, even in challenging climates. Fertilizer and Seedling Requirements To grow onions, you’ll need land, DAP fertilizer, and seedlings. One kilogram of seedlings is sufficient for one acre, and 20 grams of DAP fertilizer should be applied per square meter. Popular hybrid varieties in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 being favored for its high yield and excellent market suitability. Common Challenges in Onion Farming Harvesting Onions for Optimal Yields The dry season is the best time to harvest onions. For bulb onions, they are ready when they form a shiny membrane or when the foliage begins to wither. Spring onions should be harvested when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. After harvesting, dry the onions in the sun before storage to maintain quality. Onion Doctor: Your Partner in Profitable Farming At Onion Doctor, we are committed to helping smallholder farmers across Africa grow profitable onion and garlic crops. Our services include high-quality onion and garlic seedlings, soil testing, spray and feeding programs, transplanting supervision, and agronomic visits. We also offer market linkages to ensure you get the best price for your produce. Whether you are farming on a large scale or just getting started, Onion Doctor provides the support you need to succeed.
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Onions varieties can confuse us all. They are often misnamed, and can drive us into panic if a recipe calls for one and we’re not certain which onion to use. What are green onions? Green onions are sold in bunches and have long, green leaves and no bulb. The flavour is mild, and they can be eaten raw or lightly cooked. Green onions have a rapid growth rate. It takes about 60 to 80 days to grow green onions. If planting in the ground, choose a sunny spot in the garden with well-draining soil. They also grow well in containers. Be sure to keep weeds away from green onions to avoid competition for soil moisture and nutrients. A layer of mulch can help keep weeds down. Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep, and plant seedlings at the same depth they were growing in their previous container. Space plants roughly 2 to 3 feet apart in rows that are 1 to 2 feet apart. What are spring onions? Spring onions and green onions are both immature onions, but they are often called the same thing. Spring onions have a white, round bulb with long stems, and are also sold in bunches. Spring onions are in fact very young onions, harvested before the bulb has had a chance to swell. Both the long, slender green tops and the small white bulb are edible, and are good either raw or cooked. They have a similar flavour to onions, but are much milder. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Chives and green onions look similar, but their flavor and cooking applications make them quite different. Here we explore the difference between chives and green onions and how to use both in our favorite recipes. What Is a Green Onion? Scallions, also known as green onions, are harvested early before the onion bulb fully forms. Scallions have a small, white base with straight sides and long, slender green stalks that progress from light green to dark green.Scallions are sometimes mistakenly called spring onions, but they are not the same thing—spring onions have a larger, more bulbous white base. What Is a Chive? Chives are long, slender, hollow green tubes that resemble thin straws or blades of grass. Chives have a pronounced grassy, onion flavor. Because they’re so delicate, chives are typically used raw as a garnish or added toward the end of cooking time to add a pop of green and an oniony bite. Although they both have a mild onion flavor, chives and green onions (aka scallions) are not the same thing. Chives are smaller, thinner, and more delicate than green onions, and they don’t have an edible bulb at the bottom. Compared to green onions, chives have a much milder onion flavor. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, 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. Perennial onions, are plants that self-multiply and can be left in the garden for many years. Multiplier onions are hardy, productive perennials. That can produce a larger yield per area than any other vegetable except staked tomatoes. Multiplier onions produce a cluster of bulbs at ground level from a single planted bulb. The larger bulbs are saved for eating, and the medium and small bulbs are stored and replanted. Both potato onions and shallots can be grown in pots . Multiplier onions exist in two horticultural forms: Potato onions and shallots. Shallots may be distinguished from potato onions by the shape and division pattern of the bulbs. Shallots vary in their ability to produce seed, but potato onions rarely produce seed. There are several advantages of growing multiplier onions: (1) They are not as readily bothered by the onion fly as are seed onions. (2) Once you have enough potato onions or shallots you need not buy seeds or sets again. (3) Some types of multiplier onions are in demand as high-quality items in restaurants. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.