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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:
- Karatina
- Oloitoktok
- Naivasha
- Kieni
- Emali
- Mai Mahiu
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:
- Tanzanian Onions: Smaller with tightly packed layers and a strong aroma.
- Kenyan Onions: Larger and less tightly structured, but equally popular.
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:
- Land preparation
- DAP fertilizer (20 grams per square meter)
- Seedlings (2 kilogram of seedlings per acre)
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
- Excessive Rainfall or Watering: Waterlogging caused by heavy rainfall or over-watering can hinder onion growth. Onion Doctor advises planting during the short rains and using raised beds or drip irrigation to prevent fungal diseases linked to overhead watering.
- Diseases: Common onion diseases in Kenya include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rot, Pink Root, and Botrytis. Onion Doctor offers agronomic support to help farmers use the right fungicides to prevent and treat these diseases.
- Pests: Onion pests such as maggots, thrips, and nematodes can cause significant damage. Quality pesticides should be used to control infestations and ensure a healthy crop.
- Weeds: Weed management is crucial in onion farming. Using herbicides like Commander 240EC helps control both grass and broadleaf weeds 10-14 days after transplanting.
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:
- Onion and garlic seedlings
- Drip irrigation systems
- Soil testing and agronomic support
- Farm planning and management services
- E-extension and on-farm training
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.