Farming

Onion Farming in Kenya: Best Practices, Varieties, and Disease Control with Onion Doctor

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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.

Drip Irrigation, Farming

Mastering Onion Farming in Kenya: Best Practices and Drip Irrigation Solutions by Onion Doctor

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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.

Farming

Onion Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide to Growing Bulb with Onion Doctor

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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.

Farming, Onion Farming

Green Onion vs Spring Onion

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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.

Farming, Garlic Farming

Chives Versus Green Onions

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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.

Farming, Onion Farming

Perennial Onion Growing.

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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.

Farming, Garlic Farming

Garlic Farming In Kenya: Is Garlic A Hybrid?

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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. Garlic is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Its distinct flavor and aroma add depth and complexity to dishes, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. But have you ever wondered if garlic is a hybrid? Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum, is believed to have originated in Central Asia thousands of years ago. It has a long history of cultivation and has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. 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.

Farming, Onion Farming

5 Amazing Benefits Of Spring Onions We Bet You Don’t Know

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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. Spring onions not only taste great but are also extremely healthy for the body. Spring onion not only taste great but are also extremely healthy for the body. Commonly known as scallion or green onion, this is the most preferred ingredient which is loaded with essential nutrients. Both the green leafy part and the white bulb of the spring onion are edible. It tastes a little milder than the regular onion and can be cooked or eaten raw as well. Apart from this, it is one of the healthiest options to go for.  Green onion is an excellent source of Sulphur which is quite beneficial for the overall health. It has compounds like allyl sulphide and flavonoids that prevent cancer and fight against the enzymes that produce cancer cells. Step up to avoid cancer and start eating healthy by including more of green onions in your daily diet. Blood Sugar Level: Sulphur present in the spring onion plays a major role here as well. Due to the Sulphur compounds, the body’s ability to produce insulin tends to increase. This helps to prevent diabetes to a great extent. Aids Digestion: Spring onions are always preferred as appetizers. They are rich in fiber and helps in better digestion. You can pair it with other vegetables for dinner or lunch as well but do remember to add it in your daily diet routine, either cooked or raw.  Maintains Good Vision: Spring onions have carotenoids which helps to keep the vision healthy and intact. It is also rich in vitamin A which prevents loss of eye-sight. Club these with some carrots and cucumbers as it tastes great when savored in the form of salads.  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.

CHIVES, Farming, Garlic Farming

What Are Garlic Chives?

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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. Garlic chives are graceful herbs with pretty white flowers. The combination of a chive-like appearance and strong garlic flavor makes garlic chives a popular seasoning. What Are Garlic Chives? With their white flowers, long green shoots, and lack of a bulb, garlic chives (Allium tuberosum) bear a strong resemblance to regular chives. That’s not surprising since both are members of the onion family. However, while the standard chive has a mild flavor similar to onions, you can grow garlic chives in your garden or a container herb garden. Origins: The Chinese have been growing and cooking with garlic chives for at least 3,000 years, dating back to the Chou dynasty (1027 BC to 256 BC). But the popularity of this herb extends beyond China. Japanese cooks call garlic chives nira and use them frequently in meat and seafood recipes. 1: Standard garlic chives:  Garlic chives look similar to chives, but their leaves are broad and flat instead of hollow. Their garlicky flavor enhances cooked dishes, particularly ones where the food is slowly simmered in a sauce, such as red-cooked stews or soups, or in stuffing. Use them also to add flavor to stir-fries. They go particularly well with eggs and seafood—you’ll often find them paired with scrambled eggs or prawns.  2: Flowering Chives : Flowering chives have hollow, light green stems and yellow buds on the end. But don’t let their delicate appearance fool you: flowering chives have a stronger garlicky flavor than standard garlic cloves. The yellow buds make an attractive garnish and, unlike regular chives, they are edible. Their popularity means that flowering chives are often easier to find than garlic chives. Feel free to use them in place of garlic chives. 3: Yellow Chives: Yellow chives are garlic chives that have been grown under cover, without any exposure to direct sunlight. This prevents the leaves from turning green, as the plant’s chlorophyll-absorbing molecules never kick into action. Yellow chives have thick flat leaves, a yellow color, and a mild, onion-like flavor. Like flowering chives, they are considered to be a delicacy, and often served alone or paired with another vegetable in a stir-fry. Use them in soups, with noodles, or whenever you want to add chives with a milder flavor than either garlic or flowering chives. Storage: Fresh garlic chives have a short lifespan. Remove any dark green leaves that have wilted before cooking. Both regular garlic chives and flowering chives will last for a few days. Fresh yellow chives, on the other hand, should be used within the same day.

Farming, Onion Farming

Green onion vs spring onion nutrition

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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. Calories: Onion and scallion contain similar amounts of calories – onion has 40 calories per 100 grams and scallion has 32 calories. For macronutrient ratios, onion is lighter in protein, heavier in carbs and similar to scallion for fat. Onion has a macronutrient ratio of 11:87:3 and for scallion, 19:76:5 for protein, carbohydrates and fat from calories. Dietary Fiber:  Scallion is a great source of dietary fiber and it has 53% more dietary fiber than onion – onion has 1.7g of dietary fiber per 100 grams and scallion has 2.6g of dietary fiber. Sugar:  Onion and scallion contain similar amounts of sugar – onion has 4.2g of sugar per 100 grams and scallion has 2.3g of sugar. Carbohydrates: Onion and scallion contain similar amounts carbs – onion has 9.3g of total carbs per 100 grams and scallion has 7.3g of carbohydrates. Protein: Onion and scallion contain similar amounts of protein – onion has 1.1g of protein per 100 grams and scallion has 1.8g of protein. Saturated Fat: Both onion and scallion are low in saturated fat – onion has 0.04g of saturated fat per 100 grams and scallion has 0.03g of saturated fat. 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.

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