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 WhatsApp +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Growing garlic in a kitchen garden can be a rewarding experience. Garlic is relatively easy to grow, and it doesn’t require a large amount of space. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow garlic in your kitchen garden: Varieties Soft-neck is the most popular and characterizes by a white, paper-like skin with a fairly strong taste and pungent smell. Hard-neck characterizes with a tan and purple markings. It is a variety that produces bigger and fewer cloves on each head. Preparing the Soil Prepare the garden, break the ground, remove the weeds to avoid competition of nutrients in the soil. The most important considerations for soil when it comes to planting garlic are soil structure and soil fertility. With soil structure, you want to make sure your soil isn’t too heavy (clay) or too light (sand)for this we offer soil testing. Retaining water using our quality Drip irrigation system and nutrients prevents the soil not to be waterlogged. Planting Time Garlic can be planted any month of the year with proper irrigation. It takes 4-5 months after planting to be mature. Planting Depth and Spacing Plant the garlic cloves about 2 inches deep, with the pointed end facing upward. Space the cloves about 4 to 6 inches apart in rows, and leave around 12 inches between rows. This spacing will allow the bulbs to develop properly. Mulching After planting, apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to protect the garlic from extreme temperatures and weed growth. Mulching also helps retain moisture in the soil. Watering Garlic needs consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. . One inch of water or rainfall a week is needed for optimal growth. Garlic prefers even moisture. Uneven moisture will cause irregular shaped bulbs. Drip irrigation works best for garlic and for water conservation. we offer Drip Irrigation system and Drip installation.  Fertilizing Garlic plants benefit from a balanced fertilizer application. About a month after planting, you can side-dress the plants with a slow-release organic fertilizer .Fertilizing your garlic can occur either by side dressing or broadcasting fertilizer over the entire bed. The best garlic plant fertilizer will be high in nitrogen, those containing blood meal or a synthetic source of nitrogen. To side-dress, work the fertilizer in an inch (2.5 cm.) down or so and about 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm.) from the plant. Fertilize every three to four weeks. Removing Scapes Hard-neck garlic varieties produce scapes, which are curly, flower-like stalks that emerge from the plant. To encourage larger bulb formation, it’s recommended to snap off the scapes when they appear. Scapes are edible and can be used in cooking. Harvesting Garlic is typically ready for harvest when the lower leaves start turning yellow and drying out. Lift the bulbs gently from the soil using a garden fork, being careful not to damage them. Allow the bulbs to cure by drying them in a warm, well-ventilated area for a few weeks. Storing Once the garlic bulbs are fully cured, brush off any loose soil and trim the roots and foliage. Store the garlic in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. 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. Garlic farming is a lucrative business that requires proper land preparation to achieve maximum yields. If you’re planning to venture into garlic farming, you need to understand the right techniques of preparing land to ensure your crop grows healthy and disease-free. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step approach on how to prepare land for garlic farming in Kenya. Step 1: Soil Testing:  The first step in preparing land for garlic farming is to conduct a soil test. This will help you determine the soil type, pH level, nutrient content, and other factors that could affect the growth of your garlic crop. To conduct a soil test,  technician should collect a sample of soil from different areas of your land and send it to a  soil testing laboratory for analysis. The results of the soil test will guide you in determining the right type and amount of fertilizer to use on your farm. That’s where we Onion Doctor comes in with our services, that are high-quality for soil testing and on top of that we train and guide you on which is the best fertilizer to use for a high yield harvest.  Step 2: Land Clearing:  Clear the land of any debris, weeds, or other plants that could hinder the growth of garlic. Use a hoe or a tractor to clear the land. Do you need guidelines and trainings from professionals on hacks on how to clear your land? Look no further, we Onion Doctor are at your service, we offer on farm trainings on how to prep the land for garlic farming. At a very competitive price you will get more information and help you need. Step 3: Tilling: Tilling is the process of breaking up the soil to create a suitable seedbed for your garlic crop. Use a plow, disc harrow, or cultivator to till the land to a depth of at least 15 cm. This will help to aerate the soil and create a loose seedbed that allows for easy penetration of roots. Step 4: Leveling: After tilling, level the land to ensure that it’s flat and even. This will help to prevent waterlogging and ensure that the garlic plants receive an even distribution of water and nutrients. Step 5: Applying Fertilizer: After leveling, apply the recommended amount of fertilizer to the soil based on the soil test results. Garlic requires nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for healthy growth. Therefore, use a fertilizer that contains these nutrients in the right amounts. Avoid using too much fertilizer as this could lead to the burning of the garlic bulbs. Step 6: Mulching: Mulching involves covering the soil with organic materials such as leaves, grass, or straw. Mulching helps to conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and prevent soil erosion. Spread a layer of mulch about 5 cm thick over the soil. Step 7: Planting: Finally, it’s time to plant your garlic crop. Plant the garlic cloves about 2 cm deep and 10 cm apart. Cover the cloves with soil and water the soil gently. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. 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 Whatsapp +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Greenhouse garlic farming in Kenya is an excellent way to control the growing environment and maximize production. However, it is not economically viable to construct a greenhouse for garlic farming. The garlic crop acts as a good rotational crop to greenhouse crops such as: tomatoes. Here are some key points to consider when engaging in greenhouse garlic farming: Planting garlic in a greenhouse To plant garlic in a greenhouse successfully, using seed cloves or bulbils, along with proper spacing and planting depth, is the solution. In this section, we will dive into these sub-sections, exploring the best practices to ensure healthy garlic growth. Using seed cloves or bulbils When planting garlic in a greenhouse, you have two options – seed cloves or bulbils! Here are some key points to note: Proper spacing and planting depth Plant each clove just below the surface of the soil (about 2.5cm deep) with the pointed end facing up. They should be 10-15cm apart. For several rows of garlic, space the rows roughly 30cm apart. This will give them plenty of space and help with weeding. Watering requirements Simply water the soil if it is dry (around 2-4 inches every four days). Never pour water over the crowns. Decrease irrigating when it stops producing fresh leaves and starts to develop bulbs. Use a drip irrigation system or water near the base of the plant. Mulching helps keep the soil moist and protect roots. Importance of fertilizing Fertilizing is also important. Use a balanced fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium early in the growing season and again when the bulb forms. Too much nitrogen gives lush foliage but smaller bulbs. Common garlic problems Garlic does not grow fully with competition so make sure it is properly weeded. White Rot is a fungus that can strike garlic in a cold climate. It upsets the bottom of the roots and leaves. It can be solved by rotating crops. Bulb mites seldom hurt garlic. It is feeding on stalk bases and bulbs. You may also want to proceed with crop rotation to kill these mites. Birds can sometimes be a problem. They can destroy the seedlings, garlic shoots, and leaves. However, this shouldn’t be a problem in your greenhouse. Natural and chemical pest control methods For pest and disease control, natural and chemical methods may be used. Organic growers may prefer natural methods while conventional farmers lean towards chemicals. Natural methods include: Chemical methods include: Harvesting and storing garlic The sign is to observe for yellow crowns before they become totally dry. The bulbs are ripe when most of the low-hanging leaves are browned. When the leaves become brown, they start falling off. Harvest before all leaves fall off or when the plant has four or five leaves left. Dig, do not uproot! Remember that reckless reaping can injure a quality crop of garlic. You may need a fork or scoop to lift the bulb from the soil and then dry it out. Enjoy! Cure in a warm, dry place with good air flow for two to four weeks. Outer layers should be papery and cloves hardened. 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. Garlic is in high demand and makes an excellent cash crop. If you’d like to learn how to make money growing garlic yourself, keep reading! When you eat garlic, chances are you’re eating the bulb of the garlic plant—the bulb-shaped, underground bud. Like other plants, garlic also has a stem, leaves and even flowers! Though these are technically edible, you rarely see them in meals.  Both raw and cooked garlic have impressive health benefits, including reduced cholesterol and blood pressure, better immune function, and treatment of respiratory infections. How Much Can You Make Growing Garlic Per Acre? On average, farmers can harvest between 4,000 and 6,000 kilograms of garlic per acre. The market price of garlic also fluctuates, but farmers can expect to earn a profit of between Ksh. 200,000 and Ksh. 400,000 per acre. The Pros of Growing Garlic: Garlic has many health benefits. Whether you grow it for your family or for your customers, you can rest assured that you’re providing something nourishing. Garlic is relatively easy to grow. It doesn’t require too much maintenance or watering. Fresh garlic is extremely flavorful. Chances are that the garlic you’ve had from the grocery store is imported from somewhere far away from your home. Once you’ve had fresh garlic, you’ll never go back to store-bought (and neither will your customers)! Garlic is relatively inexpensive to grow. So you can make a great profit from it. The Cons of Growing Garlic: Although garlic is in high demand, it’s also a commonly grown and sold vegetable. You can help differentiate yourself in the market by selling a more unique type of garlic. Like most other crops, garlic is susceptible to pests. So you’ll need to be mindful of taking measures to prevent them. How to Market and Sell Your Garlic: After you’ve harvested your garlic, here are some of the ways you can market your garlic. Offer Unique Types of Garlic:  The most reliable way you can make money selling garlic is to grow and sell a variety of it that isn’t typically sold at your local farmer’s market. Even better if you sell multiple varieties. Make it Easy for Folks To Buy Your Garlic: If your garlic is hidden behind other vegetables at the farmer’s market, your customers may not reach for it. Place your garlic in between the vegetables your customers are already buying, so they’re more likely to buy it. Think About How You’re Presenting Your Garlic: Whole garlic plants are more attractive than individual bulbs, and they look appealing when grouped together in a bin or basket. There Are Multiple Ways To Sell Garlic: You don’t just have to sell whole garlic bulbs. Here are a few other products you can bring to farmer’s markets (or wherever you’re selling your goods): Minced garlic in airtight jars Cloves for planting + planting instructions Dried, powdered garlic or garlic flakes Garlic-heavy foods such as breads and dips Garlic paste Garlic oil Garlic herbal supplements Pricing Your Garlic:  The price you charge for your garlic will vary depending on where you live, the time of year, the type of garlic you’re selling, and where you’re selling it. 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. Garlic (Allium sativum) is a widely used and highly regarded culinary and medicinal plant known for its distinctive flavor and numerous health benefits. Here is some general information about garlic: Garlic belongs to the Allium genus, which also includes onions, shallots, and leeks. It is a bulbous plant with a strong, pungent odor. The edible part of garlic is the bulb, which consists of multiple individual cloves. Garlic is a staple ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, adding a strong, savory flavor to dishes. It can be used in various forms, such as raw, minced, crushed, or roasted, and is a key component in sauces, soups, marinades, and salad dressings. Garlic has a unique flavor profile that is described as pungent, spicy, and slightly sweet. The intensity of its flavor can vary depending on how it is prepared and cooked. Garlic is relatively low in calories but rich in essential nutrients. It contains vitamins (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin B6), minerals (e.g., manganese, selenium), and antioxidants. It is also a good source of allicin, a sulfur compound with potential health benefits. Health Benefits: Cardiovascular Health: Garlic may help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Antioxidant Properties: Garlic contains antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative damage. Anti-Inflammatory: Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate certain inflammatory conditions. Immune System Support: Some studies suggest that garlic can boost the immune system, potentially reducing the severity and duration of colds and infections. Antibacterial and Antifungal: Garlic has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties and has been used traditionally to treat various infections. Cultural and Historical Significance: Garlic has a long history of culinary and medicinal use. It has been cultivated for thousands of years in various cultures, including ancient Egypt, Greece, and China. It was even used as an antiseptic during World War I. Varieties: There are numerous garlic varieties, with differences in flavor, size, and color. Some popular varieties include soft-neck garlic (commonly used in cooking) and hard-neck garlic (known for its large, easy-to-peel cloves). 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.