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. Embark on a journey of successful onion farming with these tips on planting, growing, and harvesting onions in your garden. Whether you choose seeds, sets, or seedlings, this guide, equips you with the knowledge for a flourishing onion garden in Kenya. Seeds, Sets, or Seedlings? Understanding the Difference Seeds: Require the most time to yield an onion crop. Start indoors 10 weeks before the last average frost date. Separation of seedlings is necessary at planting time. Sets: Mini onion bulbs planted half-an-inch deep. Commonly used, but bulbs may not grow as large. Sets are predisposed to flowering and more susceptible to disease. Seedlings: Resemble tiny green onions and ready to form bulbs. Can be purchased at local garden centers or online from onion farmers. In their first year of growth, making them ideal for bulb formation. Preparing Your Soil for Successful Onion Growth Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny spot with loose, crumbly soil high in organic matter. Enrich the soil with compost or composted manure to boost nutrients. Opt for mounded rows or raised beds (4 inches high) for optimal growth. Planting Onions: Tips for Onion Transplants Planting Techniques: Tuck onions into the garden 4 to 6 weeks. Plant onion sets 1/2-inch deep; seedlings, 1 inch deep. Avoid planting too deeply to ensure proper bulb formation. Spacing Guidelines: Plant onion seedlings with the diameter of a pencil for the best bulbs. Maintain 4-inch spacing for bulbs and 2-inch spacing for green onions. Pull Weeds: Ripe Onions In Raised Bed Clear all weeds prior to planting and keep them removed during the growing season. If you use mulch to help suppress weeds, pull it back from the onions as bulbs start to form. Wait for the Harvest: When onions are ready to harvest, the green tops turn brown and fall over. On a sunny day, pull onions early in the morning. Let them lay on the growing bed in the sun for two to three days. Cover the bulbs with the tops of another onion to prevent sunscald. Don’t let bulbs get wet at this point. Dew is okay; rain is not. Cure the Crop: A properly cured onion stores the longest. Curing means the onion has dried thoroughly from the neck (where the stem meets the bulb) to the bulb surface. The onion skin becomes dry and papery. When tops are completely dry, they should pull right off the bulb. After curing your onions outdoors for a few days, move them indoors to a spot where they’re protected from weather and have good air flow. Lay them on screens to finish drying. When bulbs are completely dry, clip roots and either clip or braid tops. 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. As onions continue to gain popularity among Kenyan farmers, the demand for high-quality onion transplants is on the rise. In this guide, we explore the key factors affecting onion transplant production, from temperature control to watering practices and nutrient management. Learn valuable insights to enhance the quality of your onion transplants and ensure a successful harvest. Onion transplants are subject to stretching . Growers wishing to keep their onion transplants compact should maintain their night temperature warmer than the daytime temperature. So, if a grower is maintaining their nighttime temperature then they should be keeping the temperature in their greenhouse during the day. Water quality should be assessed prior to growing any transplants, but onions grow best when the water source has a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 with a low salt level. Moisture management is critical in growing high-quality onion transplants. Overwatering can lead to damping off, poor root growth, or disease development. The edges of onion plug trays can also dry out before the center of the tray so a grower should monitor moisture levels regularly. While we do not like to see moisture stressed plants, most successful onion transplant growers try to confine their watering to the morning hours. Late afternoon watering under cloudy gray skies leads to longer drying times which could promote foliar diseases in the onion plugs. Onion transplants are considered to be light feeders. The starter fertilizer charge in most potting media will last 2-3 weeks. About 2-3 weeks after onion germination and after the first true leaf has developed growers can begin to apply nutrients via fertigation. Growers should be applying fertilizer precisely using a calibrated fertilizer injector. Growers can opt to fertilize the crop once a week at 100 ppm nitrogen or use 50 ppm nitrogen via constant liquid feed. While many different water-soluble fertilizers can be used, I would opt for a 15-5-15 fertilizer. This fertilizer has a lower phosphorus level which will reduce the likelihood of stretching. Trimming onion transplants can be a controversial topic since the physical removal of onion foliage would seemingly encourage the risk of disease because of the wounding process. While this is a valid concern, growers find that trimming onion foliage in the transplant house yields a stronger more compact plant that is easier to mechanically transplant. Growers that advocate for trimming recommend trimming the onion plants to 4″ in height after the first true-leaf develops and repeating the procedure if necessary. As growers move closer to transplanting their onions in the field, they should consider hardening them off. Approximately one week prior to transplanting in the field consider moving the onions outdoors. Reduce watering and fertilization to slow growth and encourage hardening. Some growers like to make a single insecticide application to the onions outdoors while in the plug trays to discourage onion maggots from laying their eggs on the onion foliage. 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. When choosing a spot for your onion bed, look for well-drained soil that is not too loose or moist. Clean sandy loam with a pH between 6.6 and 6.8 is the best soil for growing onions. The area should never have puddles of water after watering or rain because onion bulbs rot if sitting in moisture too long. If your soil is too mucky, you can add sand to it, mixing it in with a garden rake. Before planting your onion seedlings, make sure the soil is free of stones and any other debris. Even coarse gravel can interfere with seedling growth. Take care to pulverize any soil clumps into a fine texture. Incorporating a thick layer of organic manure also adds nutrients to the soil for growing large onions. How Far Apart to Plant Onion Seedlings: Once you have worked the soil into a soft, loose bed, use the corner of a hoe to make one-inch deep furrows in your garden, spaced about 14-inches apart. This will give plenty of room for large bulbs to grow and provide air circulation to the bulbs. Plant your seedlings three to four inches apart, depending on the cultivar you have. Larger onions need more space. How to Set the Onion Seedlings in the Soil: If your seedlings have tall, thin stems, you can trim them back to about three-inches tall before planting them. Trimming back the onion stems allows the seedlings to develop a strong root system. Follow these steps for setting your onion seedlings in your furrows: Hold the seedling in your hand and place the seedling root into the furrow. Use your other hand to press the plant into place in the soft soil. Press the soil firmly against the roots. Fill up the hole with soil and smooth it out. Water the seedlings. Maintaining Onion Seedlings: Water your onion plants weekly but let them dry out between weekly watering. As your seedlings grow, the slender stems will get longer. To maximize growth of your seedlings, weed around the roots regularly, so they don’t block the sunlight from the young plants. You can hand-pull the weeds or use a hoe around the plants. If any of the seedlings or bulbs should get dislodged from underground, just press them back into place. Applying organic mulch around your onion seedlings can help with weed prevention. 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. Unlock the potential of onion farming in Kenya with a comprehensive guide. From the high market demand to easy cultivation and versatile growing regions, onion farming in Kenya offers a host of benefits. This article explores the art of growing, caring for, and harvesting onions, focusing on various onion varieties, suitable locations, climate conditions, market dynamics, and potential challenges in the world of onion farming. Benefits of Onion Farming in Kenya Onion farming in Kenya has a number of benefits. The most obvious benefit is that you can make money from it. Onion is a crop that has a high demand in the market, and you can get good prices for it. But there are other benefits as well. Onion farming is a good way to diversify your farming portfolio. It is also a good crop to grow in areas where other crops do not do well. And finally, it is a very sustainable crop – you can grow it with very little water and without using pesticides or fertilizers. Market Demand for Onion in Kenya Onion is a very important vegetable crop in Kenya. The country is the largest producer of Onion in the region. Onion is grown all over the country but the main production is from Central, Rift Valley and Eastern provinces. The demand for Onion is very high in the local market. The demand for fresh Onion is higher than that of processed onion. The main consumers of fresh Onion are hotels, restaurants and households. The major buyers of processed Onion are industries such as beverage, canning, flour milling, ice cream and potato chip factories. The price of fresh Onion ranges from 40 to 60 shillings per kilogram while the price of processed Onion ranges from 25 to 45 shillings per kilogram. Common Onion Varieties Grown in Kenya Red Pinoy Yield per Acre: Approximately 12-15 tons Characteristics: Red Pinoy is known for its deep red color and globe-shaped bulbs. It has a strong flavor and is suitable for both fresh consumption and storage. It tends to have good resistance to diseases. Important Considerations: Adequate spacing and proper irrigation are crucial for preventing disease and ensuring bulb development. Texas Grano Yield per Acre: Around 14-17 tons Characteristics: Texas Grano onions are large, sweet, and mild-flavored. They are excellent for slicing and using in salads. They have a light yellow to brown skin color and store well. Important Considerations: Texas Grano onions require well-drained soil and consistent moisture to achieve their optimal yield and flavor. Bombay Red Yield per Acre: Approximately 10-14 tons Characteristics: Bombay Red onions have a distinctive red color and a pungent flavor. They are suitable for cooking and are commonly used in traditional Kenyan dishes. Important Considerations: Adequate spacing and proper soil preparation are essential for healthy bulb development. Regular weeding and disease management are important. Red Creole Yield per Acre: About 12-16 tons Characteristics: Red Creole onions have a reddish-brown skin and a slightly flattened shape. They have a strong and tangy flavor, making them a favorite for various culinary uses. Important Considerations: These onions thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soils. Adequate sunlight and spacing between plants are crucial for optimal yield. Grano 502 Yield per Acre: Around 13-16 tons Characteristics: Grano 502 onions are medium-sized with a golden-yellow skin. They have a mild and sweet flavor, making them versatile for different dishes. Important Considerations: Proper soil fertility and adequate irrigation are necessary for achieving the desired yield and quality of Grano 502 onions. Conditions for Onion Farming Onion farming requires specific conditions for optimal growth and yield. Proper attention to these factors ensures healthy plant development, bulb formation, and overall success in your onion farming. 1. Climate: Onions thrive in cool to mild climates with moderate temperatures. The ideal temperature range for onion growth is around 13°C to 24°C. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations, as they can lead to poor bulb development. 2. Soil: Choose well-drained soils with good water-holding capacity, preferably sandy loam to clay loam. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. Ensure proper soil preparation, including loosening, leveling, and incorporation of organic matter. 3. Irrigation: Onions require consistent moisture throughout their growth cycle, especially during bulb formation. Drip irrigation is recommended to provide targeted and efficient watering while minimizing water contact with foliage. 4. Sunlight: Onions thrive in full sunlight. Ensure your onion field receives at least 12 to 14 hours of direct sunlight daily. 5. Spacing: Proper plant spacing is crucial for healthy bulb development and disease prevention. Generally, onions should be spaced 10 to 15 cm apart within rows, and rows should be spaced 20 to 30 cm apart. Onions Nursery bed preparation Onions are planted on a raised seedbed for germination and later transplanted into the field. Therefore, preparing the seedbed two to three weeks before sowing is encouraged. To make your seedbed, proceed as follows; Prepare raised seedbeds of 1.2m wide with a length of your choice. Add two 20 liters per square of organic fertilizer, mix it with the soil, and rake it evenly. Irrigate the raised seedbed one day before sowing seeds. Make evenly spread rows of 10-15cm from row to row. Field Preparation for Onion Farming Plow the land one month before transplanting the onion seedlings. Rake the soil to fine particles for two weeks before transplanting the onions. Next, Incorporate 20 -25 tonnes per hectare of ripe animal manure (Poultry or cow dung) into the field. This makes the soil rigid and increases moisture retention for an extended period. Mix the organic fertilizer well with the ground, then prepare the furrows you like. Add the organic manure to every hole during transplanting
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. Explore the world of onion farming in Kenya, where the benefits go beyond profits. Discover how this thriving industry not only boosts the economy but also creates jobs and enhances food security. From the profitability of onion cultivation to its role in ensuring self-sufficiency, this article sheds light on the advantages of being an onion farmer in Kenya. Profitability and income generation This farming brings good money. Farmers make a lot of cash from selling onions. The crop grows fast, and farmers can sell it 3-5 months after planting. Onion prices are always high in the market, too. This helps farmers earn more profits. Many success stories show that onion farming is a great way to make money. Also, about half of the red onions sold in Kenya come from other countries, like Tanzania. This means there is room for Kenyan onion farmers to grow and sell more onions in their own country! Job creation and economic growth Onion farming in Kenya not only provides profitable opportunities for farmers but also contributes to job creation and economic growth. Many Kenyan farmers have found success in onion farming, leading to increased employment opportunities within the agricultural sector. As onion cultivation is widespread across the country, more people are able to find work through planting, harvesting, packaging, and selling onions. This not only improves livelihoods but also stimulates local economies by generating income and supporting businesses involved in the production and distribution of onions. With its potential for high profits and job creation, onion farming plays a significant role in boosting Kenya’s agricultural sector and overall economic development. Food security and self-sufficiency Farming plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and self-sufficiency. With onion cultivation being widespread across the country, it helps meet the domestic demand for this essential vegetable. By producing onions locally, Kenya reduces its reliance on imported onions from neighboring countries like Tanzania. This not only strengthens food security but also promotes self-sufficiency by reducing dependence on external sources for such a staple crop. Additionally, it provides income opportunities for farmers and contributes to economic growth, further enhancing the overall agricultural productivity of Kenya. Land preparation and soil management Preparing the land for onion farming is important to ensure healthy plant growth. Here are some techniques for land preparation and soil management: Clear the field of weeds, rocks, and debris before planting. Plow or till the soil to loosen it and create a suitable seedbed. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or manure into the soil to improve fertility. Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels and pH. Based on the soil test results, add appropriate fertilizers to meet the crop’s nutrient requirements. Ensure proper drainage by leveling the field and creating ridges or raised beds if needed. Irrigate the field before planting to ensure adequate moisture. 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. Selecting the ideal bulb onion variety for your Kenyan farm is a crucial decision, influenced by various factors. Your choice should take into account farming costs, bulb size at maturity, shelf life, drought resistance, disease resistance, flavor, and market demand. Before you make your selection, it’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each variety. About Neptune F1: A Hybrid Marvel for Kenyan Farmers Market Demand and Attributes: Neptune F1 is a highly sought-after hybrid bulb onion variety. It boasts excellent features, including a delightful taste and a lengthy shelf life of up to five months. With uniform medium-sized bulbs and a deep red color, it appeals to a broad spectrum of buyers. Adaptability and Disease Resistance: Neptune F1 thrives in both dry and wet climates, making it a versatile choice for Kenyan farmers. It exhibits resistance to common onion diseases such as purple blotch and powdery mildew. Maturity Period and Storage: Harvesting with Confidence Maturity Timeline: Neptune F1 onions typically mature within 90 to 120 days after transplanting. This relatively short growing period offers a faster turnaround for farmers. Long Shelf Life: A standout feature of Neptune F1 is its remarkable shelf life. These onions can be stored for up to five months, providing flexibility for marketing and sales. Market Opportunities: Neptune F1 onions can be sold directly to various outlets, including consumers, restaurants, supermarkets, and grocery stores. The extended shelf life ensures a consistent supply for your customers. Choosing the right onion variety is pivotal for the success of your Kenyan farming venture. Neptune F1, with its high market demand, exceptional attributes, adaptability, and disease resistance, emerges as a strong contender. By selecting Neptune F1, you can enjoy a shorter maturity period, prolonged storage options, and diverse marketing opportunities. Let your onion farming journey in Kenya thrive with the Neptune F1 variety. Onion Doctor is dedicated to supporting smallholder farmers across Africa with a range of services, including quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Farm planning, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value packs, Farm management, E-extension, and on-farm training. Partner with Onion Doctor to optimize yields and maximize your profits in the world of onion farming.
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. Successful onion farming in Kenya begins with meticulous planning and execution. From establishing the nursery to controlling pests and diseases, every step plays a vital role in ensuring a bountiful harvest. Nursery Establishment: Where It All Begins Creating a Raised Nursery Bed: Start by crafting a raised nursery bed, ideally 1 meter wide and of the desired length. To enrich the soil, apply well-decomposed manure at a rate of 15 kg per square meter. Seeding and Dormancy Breakage: Mix DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) at a rate of 20g per square meter to promote seedling growth. Make shallow furrows with a 15cm separation and mix the onion seeds with sand for even distribution. After sowing the seeds, apply a solution consisting of 10g of loyalty, 100g of pyramid, and 20mls of optimizer mixed with water. This mixture aids in controlling early pests and diseases while breaking seed dormancy. Transplanting: The Next Crucial Step Timing and Seedling Criteria: Transplant your onion seedlings 6 weeks after germination. Opt for seedlings with a pencil-size thickness and a length of approximately 15cm. Ensure they have 3-5 well-formed leaves before transplanting. Weed Control: A Clean Canvas for Onions Importance of Weed Control: Keep your onion field free from weeds, as they can host pests and diseases while competing for essential nutrients. Chemical weed control is the preferred method; use a selective herbicide known as Commander two weeks after transplanting. Combatting Pests and Diseases: Safeguarding Your Crop Dealing with Thrips: Thrips can damage your onion crop by sucking sap and causing silvery white leaves. This affects bulb formation. Control thrips using Alternate Profile and Alonze at the recommended rates. Managing Leaf-Eating Caterpillars: Leaf-eating caterpillars pose a threat to your onion field. Combat them with Alternate Escort and Profile at the specified rates. Addressing Purple Blotch: Purple blotch manifests as water-soaked lesions with white centers on onion leaves. Spray Tower/Fortress Gold at the suggested rate to manage this issue. Mastering onion farming in Kenya requires a structured approach, from nursery establishment to pest control. By meticulously preparing your nursery, selecting the right seedlings, managing weeds, and addressing potential threats like thrips, caterpillars, and purple blotch, you can increase your chances of a successful onion harvest. Onion Doctor is dedicated to assisting smallholder farmers across Africa, offering quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value packs, Farm management, E-extension, and on-farm training. Join forces with Onion Doctor to optimize your yields and maximize profits in the world of onion farming.
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. Explore the exciting world of onion farming in Kenya and learn how to make the most of this profitable venture. Urban areas in Africa offer a thriving market for onions, and with Onion Doctor’s expert guidance, you can embark on a successful journey from land preparation to harvest. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to maximize your onion yield and ensure a bountiful harvest. Starting an Onion Farm Land and water Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced farmer, Onion Doctor provides invaluable assistance in starting your onion farm. Onions thrive in well-drained soils of a PH of between 5.8 to 6.8 in a temperature range of 13 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees celsius. They have rainfall requirements of 600mm to 800mm. Irrigation can be used to supplement the water requirements of onions. We Onion Doctor offers drip irrigation kit and drip installation services. For the right water content using drips, feel free to reach to us and of course for a very competitive cost. Our calling to action number is 0703982228. Soil in Onion Farming: Onions perform well in well drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils. The ideal pH is 5.8 to 6.8. Rain-fed Open-field cultivation Onions can be farmed using the open field cultivation method. It grows best at below 1,900m altitude; 500-‐700mm rainfall; 15-‐ 30 ºC temperature range. Land should be ploughed or ripped as deep as possible, and a good seed bed prepared, with all lumps broken up with a disc and smoothened with a roller. . In this system, the plants rely on rainfall for growth. Farmers, therefore, plant according to the rainfall patterns of long or short rains. The onions under this system are planted in an open field and are exposed to natural elements of weather like rain, sunlight, humidity, and temperature. Drip irrigation in open-field cultivation This method is similar to rain-fed open field cultivation with the only difference being drip irrigation to supplement rainfall. Drip-irrigation consists of dripper lines that deliver precise amounts of water and soil nutrients directly to each plant’s root-zone. The result is each plant gets exactly what it needs, when it needs it, to grow optimally. It is the best method to farm onions as there is no dependence on rainfall. Under this system, farmers can time their crops to mature when there is a scarcity of onions in the market. We Onion Doctor offers drip irrigation kit and drip installation services. For the right water content using drips, feel free to reach to us and of course for a very competitive cost. Products and Services Red Coach F1 It is a hybrid red bulb fast-maturing variety. Red Coach F1 takes 80 to 90 days after transplanting to reach maturity. These onions are firm and round. They are resistant to pink rot disease. When cured and stored under good conditions, they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Neptune F1: Neptune F1, engineered by Amiran Kenya, is a hybrid red bulb variety with a long shelf life of between 5 to six months. It matures after 4 to five months. It has a flattened globe with good pungency. It is commonly used in salads. Red Creole F1 This is a late-maturing variety that takes between 150 to 180 days after transplanting to reach maturity. It performs well in a hot and warm climate. Like most hybrid varieties, it has a deep red color. It is tolerant to pink rot disease. Red Passion F1: Red Passion F1 is an early maturing onion variety, taking 120 days after transplanting to reach maturity. It grows well in a climate that is cool and wet. It is also tolerant to pink rot disease. Red passion F1 is popular in Kenyan markets because it can be stored for up to 6 months. This gives farmers an opportunity to store and sell when the prices are better. How to Operate a Onion Farm Key Activities: Key activities in onion farming are seed selection, nursery development, transplanting, watering, weeding, control of pests and diseases, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. All these activities require strict supervision. Onions are delicate. Therefore, all these key activities must be done by a skilled farm operator. We onion Doctor, offer quality services for a full season of your growing of onions, with our experienced agronomist you can never go wrong, reach to us for more information and quotation on our various services. Farm Operator: It is ideal that the operator should have some experience in onion farming. In a tele-farming operation, the operator should be given the support of an expert. The farm operator must understand the crop growing schedule of onions. This schedule will inform the operator of all the management practices. We Onion Doctor , we have the best experienced farm operators across the country, who will deliver to the maximum in the full season, we offer teamwork environment. Supply Chain: Through Onion Doctor you are assured of getting affordable quality inputs When sourcing seeds/ seedlings, it is recommended that you purchase disease-tolerant varieties. Source your seed/seedlings from Onion Doctor. In order to lower the cost of watering, install an irrigation system that’s from Onion Doctor for quality. 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. Delve into the world of onion farming in Kenya with Onion Doctor, and learn the essential practices to safeguard your crop against pests, diseases, and post-harvest losses. We’re here to guide you through the key steps in maintaining a healthy onion and garlic farm, from soil sterilization to post-harvest storage. By controlling pests, diseases, and optimizing crop nutrition, you can ensure the success of your onion farming venture. Crop Nutrition and Onion Pests and Diseases: Common Onion Diseases: Downy Mildew : Symptoms: Yellow-green patches on leaves, purple-gray fuzz on the undersides, stunted growth, and reduced bulb size. Management: Plant disease-resistant onion varieties, practice crop rotation, provide proper spacing for good airflow, and apply fungicides when necessary. Optimum nutrient management during establishment and vegetative growth are needed to ensure nutrients don’t limit bulb quality. White Rot : Symptoms: Wilting, yellowing, and rotting of leaves, brown lesions on bulbs, and white fungal growth. Management: Practice crop rotation with non-allium crops, remove and destroy infected plants, avoid excessive irrigation, and use disease-free sets/seeds. Botrytis Leaf Blight : Symptoms: Water-soaked lesions on leaves, grayish-brown fuzzy growth, leaf death, and bulb infection. Management: Maintain good airflow, practice crop rotation, remove and destroy infected plant material, and apply fungicides as needed. Common Onion Pests Onion Thrips : Symptoms: Silver-gray speckling and curling of leaves, stunted growth, and reduced bulb size. Management: Use yellow sticky traps, practice crop rotation, employ reflective mulches, and apply appropriate insecticides. Onion Maggots : Symptoms: Wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of plants, swollen and discolored roots, and tunneling in bulbs. Management: Use floating row covers, practice crop rotation, avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, and apply insecticides if necessary. Nitrogen and Potassium: Nitrogen and potassium are required to maximize bulb dry matter and size. Too much nitrogen softens the bulb and increases storage rot diseases. Excess N can also thicken the neck, resulting in greater disease entry. Calcium is particularly important for bulb density, integrity and long-term storage with minimal disease problems. Calcium has a major role to play in promoting long-term storage quality with minimal diseases problems. Post-harvest losses After curing and harvesting onions, they require sun drying in order to increase their shelf life. After this, they should be kept in cool and dry storages. Many farmers suffer significant post-harvest losses in this venture due to poor storage facilities and little knowledge of how to handle onions. 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. Discover the world of onion farming in Kenya and seize the opportunity for both subsistence and commercial success. Onion farming offers a host of benefits, and with Onion Doctor by your side, you can maximize your yields and profits. Let’s explore the lucrative world of onion farming in Kenya. High Demand: Onions are a staple ingredient in almost all Kenyan dishes, making them highly sought after in the market. The demand for onions remains consistently high throughout the year, ensuring a steady market for farmers. Profitability: The retail prices for onions in Kenya can reach up to 200 shillings per kilogram, with wholesale prices range from 35 to 120 shillings per kilogram. Adaptability: Onions can be grown in various regions of Kenya, including Naivasha, Kajiado, Meru, Narok, Nyeri, and even Oloitoktok. Versatility: Onions have multiple uses in the culinary world. They can be used as seasoning in soups, salads, and a wide range of recipes, making them a versatile crop with diverse market opportunities. Understanding the Onion Varieties: Before delving into the farming process, it’s crucial to understand the different onion varieties suitable for cultivation in Kenya. The choice of variety depends on factors such as climate, market demand, and intended use. All the different varieties can be categorized into two main groups: Bulb Onions: Bulb onions are the most common type of onions grown for their bulbs. They come in various colors, including red, white, and yellow. Popular bulb onion varieties in Kenya include Red Creole, Red Couch F1, Texas Early Grano, Red Pinoy, and Red Passion F1. Spring Onions: Spring onions, also known as scallions or salad onions, are non-bulbing onions cultivated for their green stems/leaves. They are highly productive and have a wide range of culinary applications. Planning Your Onion Farm: What to Take Into Consideration Location: Onions thrive in altitudes ranging from 500 to 2000 meters above sea level. Additionally, regions with a rainfall of 500 to 700mm are ideal for onion cultivation. Finally, ensure that the soil has good water-holding capabilities and a pH level between 6 and 7. Land Preparation: Prepare the land for onion farming by plowing and harrowing the soil at least three weeks before planting. Next, apply organic manure or compost (2 to 4 tons per acre) to enhance soil fertility and improve yields. And remember to conduct a soil test to determine if there are any nutrient deficiencies or pathogens that might affect your onions. Onion Propagation and Planting: Select a suitable onion seed variety based on your location and market requirements. Make sure to use certified F1 seeds to ensure a high germination rate. Propagate the onions in a nursery, ensuring proper soil solarization and adequate water supply. Finally, transplant the seedlings when they have reached a suitable size and the weather conditions are favorable. Onion Spacing: Proper spacing is crucial for the healthy growth of onions. Space the onion seedlings by approximately 10x20cm. This spacing will allow for sufficient room for the bulbs to develop while minimizing competition for nutrients and water. Pests and Diseases Control: in Onions Just like most other crops, onions are also susceptible to pest infestations and disease infections. So, you will want to implement proper disease and pest management strategies to protect your onion farm. Below are some of the common onion pests you should be on the lookout for (and how to control them): Thrips: They suck the sap from your onion stems/leaves which will result in them turning a slivery white. To control thrips, alternate between Profile 440EC (30mls/20L) and Umeme (10ml/20L). Caterpillars: Normally, they will feed on the leaves thereby impeding the growth of your onion plants. Control them by alternating between Profile 440EC (30mls/20L) and Benocarb 100SC (10ml/20L). Common onion diseases you should be on the lookout for are: Downey mildew: This results in the onion leaves turning yellow. They will eventually start drying from the tips downwards. Control it by spraying a good fungicide such as Trinity Gold® 450WP (50g/20L). Purple blotch: It is characterized by water soaked lesions on the leaves which quickly develops with white centers. 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.