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. Unlock the secrets of greenhouse onion farming with Onion Doctor, your premier partner for agricultural excellence in Kenya. Dive into the world of polythene-sheeted structures and discover how to optimize onion growth for maximum yields and profitability. This comprehensive guide, infused with keywords like “Onion farming in Kenya” and “Onion Doctor,” will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in greenhouse onion cultivation. THE BENEFITS OF GROWING CROPS IN A GREENHOUSE Over time, farmers have come to realize that there are plenty of benefits of growing plants in a greenhouse, especially with the uncertainty in climate change lately. However, before you carry out your greenhouse farming in Kenya, you have to conduct adequate research to ensure that you will reap some of the following benefits. A greenhouse delivers an extended growing season There are consistency and reliability in food production You can plant a variety of crops in a greenhouse It allows you to control the growth environment, humidity levels, and soil easily A greenhouse makes it easy for you to control insect and animal infestation Factors to consider for greenhouse onion farming The variety of the onion crop. The climatic conditions of the onions. Agronomist practices required by onions. Irrigation method. Availability of the market. Pests and disease management The variety of onions The variety of onions depends mainly on the type of climatic and the soil factors. The commonly used varieties may include;  Neptune F1 variety Bombay red. Red coach F1 Russet F1 Quantifying onion seed for greenhouse onion farming Quantifying seed required for planting depends on land availability by the farmer. The standard seed required by a greenhouse of 8 meters by 30 meters is approximately 250mg. This quantity is good enough to plants six beds of one meter each with a running length of 30 meters. The numbers of seedlings that can accommodate in a single bay of a greenhouse is roughly 50,000 seedlings thus the 3 months output in terms of kilogram are 3000kgs-5000kgs. These kilograms when translated into Kenyan shillings per kilograms comes to about ksh150, 000 to ksh250, 000 Irrigation methods of greenhouse onion farming Drip irrigation system The commonly used method of irrigation of onion farming is the drip irrigation. Drip irrigation system commonly used for onion farming are drip line of 10 centimetres, 15 centimetres and 20 centimetres. These spacing dictate the onion spacing along the rows and the column. The GAP ( Good Agricultural Practices) in Kenya recommends these spacing from plant to plant and 30 centimetres from one line to another. Benefits of best drip irrigation system The drip irrigation system is the most efficient method of irrigation. Through emitters, water is directly delivered to the plant root zone hence economical on water usage. In the best drip irrigation system, there is a constant benefit of water supply in small quantities to the plants. This creates an ideal moist condition for proper growth of most plants. The best drip irrigation system minimizes weed growth since water is only supplied to a particular crop root. The best drip irrigation system helps in the control of fungal diseases which grow very fast under moist conditions. Timeliness and labor-saving. In the best drip irrigation system, the control valves can be managed by one personnel. One person operates the whole system thus minimizing the labor costs. This minimizes production cost. Ease in fertilizer application. , method of liquid fertilizer application (Fertigation) is very easy and fast. Since water emitters are used to directly distribute fertilizers to particular crop/plants Disease and pest management and agronomy practices Thrips are tiny insects that have onions as most preferred host crop on hot and dry weather conditions. They feed by sucking the plant sap hence opening the onions to attack by diseases like purple blotch. They mostly cause great damage to younger onions when bulbs are forming than older ones hence control measures should be undertaken during early stages of growth. Thrips can cause economic loss by reducing yields by up to 60% if not controlled timely. Symptoms: They cause silvery streaks or patches on the leaves while severe infestation and feeding can result in minute black “tar” like sports on leaves. Younger plant leaves show brown tips and eventually a white color as a result of feeding by thrips. This reduces ability of plants to make food thus resulting in small undeveloped bulbs. The presence of thrips can also be indicated by the black dotted patches of thrips fecal materials produced during their feeding on the onion plant. 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. The major types of onions farmed in Kenya are bulb onions and spring onions. The best areas suited for farming include Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu. Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Short rains are great for bulb onions since they can be harvested between January and February. Local farmers benefit during this period due to low onion supply from Tanzania, leading to higher prices post-harvest after the long rains in March. Spring onions are easy to plant and can be grown even in kitchen gardens. They are commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Some health benefits of spring onions include lowering blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of the two types, bulb onions are more popular due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Currently, there are two varieties of bulb onions in the market: the small, thin, and firmly layered onion from Tanzania with a strong pungent smell, and the big, loosely held variety grown locally in Kenya. Conditions for Onion Farming Onions perform well in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils with an ideal pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthy venture since it’s possible to grow onions throughout the year via irrigation. Soil testing with accredited laboratories is advised. Optimal temperatures for onion growth are between 13 to 35 degrees Celsius, allowing cultivation in most parts of Kenya. However, to maximize production in areas such as Ukambani and parts of the Coastal region, investment in greenhouses and drip irrigation is necessary. Greenhouses optimize temperatures, and irrigation provides the much-needed water. Onions are a cool-season crop, and most areas in Ukambani and the Coastal region are extremely dry. Essential requirements include land, DAP fertilizer, and seedlings. One kilogram of seedlings can be used per acre, while 20 grams of DAP fertilizer is applied per square meter. Different seed varieties perform differently under various conditions. Common hybrid varieties available in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 being the most popular due to its high yield and the size and color of its onions, which are ideal for the Kenyan markets. Challenges Facing Onion Farming in Kenya Excessive Rainfall or Watering: Heavy rainfall or excessive watering can lead to waterlogging. Focus on cultivating during short rains or raising beds to ensure proper drainage. Drip irrigation is recommended to prevent fungal diseases associated with overhead watering. Diseases: Common diseases affecting onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use effective fungicides to combat these diseases. Pests: Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes, and leaf miners. Employ quality pesticides to manage pest infestations. Weeds: Weed control is crucial in onion farming. Weeds are a big challenge and should be managed effectively. Optimizing Drip Irrigation for Onion Farming Drip irrigation is the most efficient way to water onion crops, ensuring consistent moisture levels while preventing fungal diseases. Here are some tips to optimize drip irrigation for your onion farm: Design a Proper Layout: Ensure your drip irrigation system is well-designed with emitters placed close to the base of each onion plant for efficient water delivery. Use Pressure Regulators: Maintain consistent water pressure to ensure even distribution across your field. Schedule Irrigation: Water onions early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation and water loss. Monitor Soil Moisture: Use soil moisture sensors to avoid over or under-watering. Regular Maintenance: Check for clogs and leaks in the drip lines regularly to ensure the system operates efficiently. Fertilizer Application: Use fertigation (applying fertilizer through the irrigation system) to provide nutrients directly to the root zone, enhancing growth and yield. Harvesting Onions The best time to harvest onions is during the dry season. Keep a calendar and record essential dates to ensure timely harvesting. Bulb onions are ready for harvest once they form a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or when the foliage withers. Spring onions are ready for harvesting when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Harvest by pulling the bulbs and chopping off the leaves. Dry the bulbs in the sun before storing the produce. Support from Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder 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 yields and maximize 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. Spring onions are easy to plant and can be grown even in kitchen gardens. They are commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Some health benefits of spring onions include lowering blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of the two types, bulb onions are more popular due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Currently, there are two varieties of bulb onions in the market: the small, thin, and firmly layered onion from Tanzania with a strong pungent smell, and the big, loosely held variety grown locally in Kenya. The best areas suited for farming include Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu. Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Conditions for Onion Farming Onions perform well in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils with an ideal pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthy venture since it’s possible to grow onions throughout the year via irrigation. Soil testing with accredited laboratories is advised. Optimal temperatures for onion growth are between 13 to 35 degrees Celsius, allowing cultivation in most parts of Kenya. However, to maximize production in areas such as Ukambani and parts of the Coastal region, investment in greenhouses and drip irrigation is necessary. Greenhouses optimize temperatures, and irrigation provides the much-needed water. Onions are a cool-season crop, and most areas in Ukambani and the Coastal region are extremely dry. Essential requirements include land, DAP fertilizer, and seedlings. One kilogram of seedlings can be used per acre, while 20 grams of DAP fertilizer is applied per square meter. Different seed varieties perform differently under various conditions. Common hybrid varieties available in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 being the most popular due to its high yield and the size and color of its onions, which are ideal for the Kenyan markets. Challenges Facing Onion Farming in Kenya Excessive Rainfall or Watering: Heavy rainfall or excessive watering can lead to waterlogging. Focus on cultivating during short rains or raising beds to ensure proper drainage. Drip irrigation is recommended to prevent fungal diseases associated with overhead watering. Diseases: Common diseases affecting onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use effective fungicides to combat these diseases. Pests: Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes, and leaf miners. Employ quality pesticides to manage pest infestations. Weeds: Weed control is crucial in onion farming. Weeds are a big challenge and should be managed effectively. Harvesting Onions The best time to harvest onions is during the dry season. Keep a calendar and record essential dates to ensure timely harvesting. Bulb onions are ready for harvest once they form a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or when the foliage withers. Spring onions are ready for harvesting when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Harvest by pulling the bulbs and chopping off the leaves. Dry the bulbs in the sun before storing the produce. Support from Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder 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 yields and maximize 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. Onions thrive in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Throughout the year, onion cultivation is viable through irrigation, although soil testing by accredited laboratories is recommended. Optimal temperatures for onion growth range from 13 to 35 degrees Celsius, allowing cultivation in most parts of Kenya. However, to enhance production in hotter regions like Ukambani and certain coastal areas, investing in greenhouses and drip irrigation is advisable to regulate temperatures and provide necessary water. Despite being a cool-season crop, Ukambani and coastal areas experience extreme dryness. Essential requirements include land, DAP fertilizer, and seedlings. One kilogram of seedlings per acre and 20 grams of DAP fertilizer per square meter are recommended. Different seed varieties perform differently under varying conditions. Popular hybrid varieties in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 being favoured for its high yield and ideal size and colour for local markets. Challenges in Onion Farming: Excessive Rainfall or Watering: Heavy rainfall or excessive watering can lead to waterlogging. Focus on cultivating during the short rains or raising beds to ensure proper drainage. Drip irrigation is recommended to prevent fungal diseases associated with overhead watering. Diseases: Common onion diseases include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Utilize effective fungicides to combat these diseases. Pests: Maggots, thrips, nematodes, and leaf miners are common onion pests. Employ quality pesticides to manage pest infestations. Weeds: Weed control is crucial in onion farming. Use Commander 240EC herbicide to eradicate weeds (both grass and broadleaves) 10-14 days after transplanting until harvest. Harvesting Onions: Harvest during the dry season when bulbs form a shiny membranous cover or when foliage withers. Bulb onions are ready for harvest at this stage. Spring onions are ready when they reach 15 centimetres in height and 1.5 centimetres in thickness. Harvest by pulling bulbs and cutting off leaves. Sun-dry bulbs before storage. Keeping a calendar to record essential dates ensures timely harvesting. Support from Onion Doctor: Onion Doctor supports smallholder 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 yields and maximize profits. For more information and support, contact Onion Doctor today!

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. An Expert Guide to Onion Farming in Kenya by Onion Doctor There are two main types of onions grown in Kenya: bulb onions and spring onions. The best-suited areas to grow onions include Nyeri, Nakuru, Narok, Maimahiu, Kieni, and Nyandarua. Bulb Onions: Maturity: Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Harvest Time: Short rains are ideal for bulb onions as they can be harvested between January and February. During this period, local farmers benefit due to the low supply of onions from Tanzania. After the long rains of March, the prices of these onions increase, providing farmers who harvest after this period with good profit margins. Spring Onions: Ease of Planting: Spring onions are easy to plant and can even be grown in a kitchen garden. Uses: Commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Health Benefits: Include lowering blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Varieties of Bulb Onions: Imported Variety: Small, thin, and firmly layered onions with a strong pungent smell from Tanzania. Local Variety: Big, loosely held onions grown locally in Kenya. Challenges Facing Onion Farming in Kenya: Rains or Excess Watering: Impact: Too much rain or excess watering can waterlog the crop. Solution: Focus on growing during the short rains, raise beds for better drainage, and avoid excessive watering. Drip irrigation is the best method for onions, while overhead irrigation should be avoided as it causes fungal diseases. Diseases: Common diseases include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Control: Use herbicides to manage these diseases. Pests: Common pests include maggots, thrips, nematodes, and the leaf miner. Control: Use pesticides from accredited brands. Weeds: Impact: Weeds compete for nutrients, light, and space and can harbor pests and diseases. Control: Remove weeds physically or use herbicides. Conduct 2-3 weeding sessions per season. Conditions for Onion Farming: Soil: Well-drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Climate: Ideal temperatures range between 13 – 35 degrees centigrade, making most parts of Kenya suitable. In hotter regions like Ukambani and some coastal areas, investing in a greenhouse and drip irrigation is necessary. Planting Onions from Seeds: Nursery Bed Preparation: Make a raised nursery bed 1m wide and of any desired length. Apply well-decomposed manure at 15kg per square meter and mix with DAP fertilizer at 20 grams per square meter. Make shallow furrows 15cm apart, mix the seeds with dry ash, sand, or soil at a ratio of 1:3, plant the seeds, cover lightly with soil, and apply mulch. After planting, irrigate liberally for the first 10 days and continue watering regularly. Transplanting: Transplant seedlings 6 weeks after planting when they have a pencil-thick base, a height of approximately 15cm, and 3-5 well-formed leaves. Two weeks before transplanting, reduce shade to improve seedling survival in the field. Harvesting Onions: Timing: The best time for harvesting is during the dry season. Record essential dates to ensure timely harvesting. Bulb Onions: Ready for harvesting once they form a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or when the foliage withers. Spring Onions: Ready for harvesting when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Process: Harvest by pulling the bulbs, chopping off the leaves, and drying the bulbs in the sun before storing. Onion Doctor: Supporting smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic 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 to optimize yields and achieve 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. Planting Onions Onion Seedlings: Onion seedlings are first established in a nursery. Preparation of the nursery is done as follows: Make a raised nursery bed 1 meter wide and any desired length. Apply well-decomposed manure at a rate of 15 kg per square meter. Mix DAP at a rate of 20g per square meter. Make shallow furrows 15cm apart and mix the seeds with sand to help spread the seeds. Drill the seeds and cover lightly with soil, then apply mulch. After drilling the seeds, mix 10g of Loyalty, 100g of Pyramid, and 20mls of Optimizer with water, and apply the solution in the nursery. This mixture helps control early pests and diseases and also breaks the seed dormancy. Transplanting: Transplanting is done 6 weeks after germination. Transplant the seedlings when they have a pencil-size thickness and are 15cm in length. The seedlings should also have 3-5 well-formed leaves. Weed Control: Keep the onion field free from weeds as they act as alternate hosts for pests and diseases and compete for nutrients. Chemical control of weeds is the most ideal method in an onion field. This is done by applying a selective herbicide known as Commander two weeks after transplanting. Once sprayed, the herbicide will kill all the weeds that have already germinated and also suppress further germination of weeds. Pests and Diseases Management Thrips: Thrips suck sap from the onion crop. Attacked leaves turn silvery white and affect bulb formation. Control: Alternate Profile and Alonze at the rate of 30mls/20 liters and 5mls/20 liters respectively. Leaf-Eating Caterpillar: Control: Alternate Escort and Profile at the rate of 30mls and 10mls per knapsack respectively. Diseases: 1) Downy Mildew: Affected leaves turn yellow and die from the tip downwards. Control: Alternate Absolute with Fortress Gold at the rate of 10g and 50g per knapsack respectively. 2) Purple Blotch: Characterized by water-soaked lesions on the leaves that quickly develop with white centers. Control: Spray Tower/Fortress Gold at the rate of 50g per knapsack. Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic 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 yields and achieve 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. Onion Farming in Kenya: Types and Ideal Locations The major types of onions farmed in Kenya are bulb onions and spring onions. The best areas suited for farming include Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu. Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Short rains are great for bulb onions since they can be harvested between January and February. Local farmers benefit during this time as there is low supply of onions from Tanzania. After the long rains of March, the price of these onions hikes, and farmers who harvest after this period make good profit margins. Spring onions are easy to plant and can even be grown in your kitchen garden. They are commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Health benefits of spring onions include lowering blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of the two types, bulb onions are more popular due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Currently, there are two different varieties of bulb onions in the market: the small, thin, firmly layered onion with a strong pungent smell from Tanzania and the big, loosely held variety grown locally in Kenya. Conditions for Onion Farming Onions perform well in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils with an ideal pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthy venture as it’s possible to grow onions throughout the year via irrigation. Soil testing with accredited laboratories is advised. Ideal temperatures for onions are between 13 – 35 degrees centigrade, allowing them to grow in most parts of Kenya. To maximize production in hot areas such as Ukambani and the Coastal region, one needs to invest in a greenhouse and drip irrigation. Greenhouses optimize temperatures, and irrigation provides the much-needed water. Onions are a cool-season crop. In terms of requirements, apart from land, other essentials include DAP fertilizer and seedlings. 1 kg of seedlings can be used per acre, while 20 grams of DAP fertilizer is applied per square meter. Different seed varieties perform differently under various conditions. Common hybrid varieties in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1. The most popular seed variety is Red Coach F1 due to its high yield and ideal size and color for the Kenyan markets. Onion Doctor provides quality seedlings, soil testing, and farm planning services to help optimize your farming conditions. Challenges in Onion Farming in Kenya Rains or Excess Watering: Too much rain or excess watering can waterlog the crop. If the rain in your area is too much, focus on growing the crop during the short rains. Raise the beds to ensure water flows out of the field. Avoid excessive watering of your onions. The best type of irrigation is drip irrigation. Overhead irrigation should be avoided as it causes fungal diseases. Diseases: Common diseases affecting onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use the best fungicides to manage these diseases. Onion Doctor offers agronomic support to help manage and prevent diseases effectively. Pests: Common pests attacking onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes, and the leaf miner. Use pesticides from accredited brands to manage these pests. Onion Doctor provides pest control solutions to protect your crops. Weeds: Weeds are a significant challenge in onion farms. Use Commander 240EC 10-14 days after transplanting your onions to eliminate weeds (grass and broadleaves) until harvesting. Regular weeding ensures your onions get the nutrients and space they need to grow. Harvesting Onions The best time to harvest is during the dry season. Keep a calendar and record essential dates to ensure timely harvesting. Bulb onions are ready for harvesting once they form a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or when the foliage withers. Spring onions are ready when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Harvest by pulling the bulbs and then chopping off the leaves. Dry the bulbs in the sun before storing them. Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, value packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training. These services help farmers optimize yields and achieve 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. Onion Farming in Kenya: Types and Varieties There are two main types of onions grown in Kenya: bulb onions and spring onions. Of the two, bulb onions are more popular due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Prices of onions fluctuate depending on the season and variety planted. The price fluctuation is mainly attributed to the importation of onions from Tanzania, where the cost of production is lower. Timing is therefore key if a farmer wishes to reap from their produce. The best time to plant is between November and May, as onions fetch high prices due to low supply from Tanzania. The best areas suited for growing onions in Kenya are Kajiado, Narok, Kieni, Karatina, Oloitoktok, Kakamega, and Naivasha, among others. Onions do well in well-drained fertile soils rich in humus with a pH ranging from 5.8-6.5. The common varieties grown in Kenya include Jambar F1, Islero, Red Creole, Red Passion, and Red Pinnoy. All varieties in Kenya prefer warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 15-30 degrees Celsius. An acre requires 1-1.5kg of onion seeds depending on the variety and the spacing. The spacing normally affects the size of the bulb onions. Onion Farming in Kenya: Seedling Establishment Onions can be grown by direct seeding, which requires intensive management, or by first establishing a nursery bed. Just like other vegetables planted in a nursery bed, site selection is key to proper planning for the production of healthy and vigorous growing seedlings. The site should be in a secure environment, near a water source, and preferably near the crop production site. It should be raised to a height of about 15cm to encourage drainage, 1m width for easy workability, and the length of your own desire depending on the number of seeds to be sowed. Shallow drills are made 2cm deep and 15cm apart after leveling, and seeds are sowed singly. This is achieved by mixing sand and onion seeds in a ratio of 3:1. Cover the nursery bed using agro-nets or dry grass free of weeds, pests, and diseases. Immediately after sowing, watering should be done twice per week depending on the moisture level. In most cases, the seeds sprout after seven days. The crop in the nursery should be established for 4-6 weeks and transplanted when pencil-sized in thickness, 10 to 15cm tall, and have 3-5 true leaves. Onion Doctor provides high-quality onion seedlings and advice on seedling establishment to ensure optimal growth. Onion Farming in Kenya: Transplanting It’s always wise to do a soil test before planting to know the status of nutrients in the soil, which will guide you on nutrient application for onion production. A serious farmer should prepare the land to a fine tilth and add well-decomposed manure. Depending on the soil test, one can consider using DAP during planting and top-dress using CAN at week four. Frequent scouting for crop nutrition is paramount, and mitigation measures should be taken immediately. To prevent transplanting shock, do the exercise early in the morning, late in the evening, or when the weather is cloudy. It’s ideal to trim the shoot and root (3 inches for shoots and 0.5 inch for roots) before seedling placement to minimize moisture loss and seedling shock during and after transplanting. The ideal spacing is 8-10cm between the seedlings and 15cm for inter-row distance to allow better bulb development. Spacing is also determined by the variety planted and soil fertility. Onion Doctor offers soil testing and transplanting guidance to help farmers optimize their yields. Onion Farming in Kenya: Watering and Irrigation Too much rain or excessive watering can waterlog the crop. If the rain in your area is too much, focus on growing the crop during the short rains. You can also raise the beds to ensure the water flows out of the field. Avoid excessive watering of your onions. The best type of irrigation for onions is drip irrigation. Overhead irrigation should be avoided as it causes fungal diseases. Onion Doctor provides drip irrigation installation and maintenance services to help manage your watering needs efficiently. Onion Farming in Kenya: Pest and Disease Control Common diseases that affect onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use herbicides to get rid of the diseases. Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, onion flies, red spider mites, nematodes, and the leaf miner. Use pesticides from accredited brands to get rid of the pests. Frequent scouting for pests and diseases is important for early detection, prevention, and control. Onion Doctor offers agronomic support and pest control solutions to ensure healthy crops. Onion Farming in Kenya: Weeding The land should be free of weeds, which compete for nutrients, light, and space and harbor pests and diseases. Weeds should be removed occasionally either physically or through the use of herbicides. In one season, there should be at least 2-3 weeding sessions. Onion Farming in Kenya: Harvesting Once transplanting is done, one should prepare to harvest after 4-5 months depending on the variety. Top leaves will yellow and begin to fall over, an indication they are ready for harvesting, which should coincide with dry and hot weather. Curing of the onions is done by uprooting every single stem and leaving it to dry, after which leaves and roots are cut off with a sharp knife. A good harvest offers 20-25 tonnes per acre depending on the variety. Onion Doctor provides farm management services and harvesting tips to maximize your yield. About Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance,

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: Preparation and Fertilizing Onions require full sun, good soil drainage, and soil rich in nitrogen. Choose a location that gets plenty of direct sun and where your onion plants will not be shaded by other crops. Onions grow best on raised beds or raised rows at least 4 inches high and 20 inches wide. Pull and remove all visible weeds. The soil should be loose and crumbly. If it’s compacted, work in compost to improve aeration and drainage. Onions are heavy feeders and require consistent feeding to produce big, solid bulbs. At planting time, prepare the soil first with compost and also work in a good source of granular, high nitrogen fertilizer. As plants grow and begin to bulb up, plan to supplement feed every few weeks with a high nitrogen liquid fertilizer such as fish emulsion. Be sure to apply all fertilizers according to suggested rates or quantities. For expert guidance and quality fertilizers, consider consulting Onion Doctor. Onion Farming in Kenya: Planting Rows should be made 12-18 inches apart. If you want the onions to grow to mature bulbs, plant them 4-6 inches apart and 1 inch deep (and no deeper, as this will inhibit their ability to bulb). If you prefer to harvest some earlier as green onions, space them 2 inches apart and pull every other onion during the growing season, leaving the rest to grow to maturity. When the ground starts to crack as the onions push the soil away, the bulbing process has begun. Stop fertilizing at this point. Do not heap soil up around the bulbing onions; it’s normal and beneficial for much of the onion bulb to be above the ground as they mature. Onion Doctor offers high-quality onion seedlings and planting advice to ensure optimal growth. Onion Farming in Kenya: Watering Water thoroughly after planting and regularly thereafter – onions require about 1 inch of water per week. The closer to harvest, the greater the need for regular watering. They have shallow roots, so don’t let the soil at the base of the plants become dry and cracked. If an onion plant fails to receive enough water, it will not make a large bulb. Overwatering is equally problematic – if leaves develop a yellow tinge, cut back on watering. Drip irrigation is a good way to stay on top of onions’ water needs and helps discourage foliar diseases. Onion Doctor provides drip irrigation installation and maintenance services to help manage your watering needs efficiently. Onion Farming in Kenya: Weeding Weed control is especially important early in the growing season to prevent competition for nutrients. When the onions start to bulb up, push the mulch back so that they get good air circulation. Pest and Disease Control The most common conditions that affect onions are blight, purple blotch, and thrips. They are caused by fungus and are more common during periods of high moisture. Blight appears as small white spots surrounded by a greenish halo. Purple blotch causes a purplish discoloration of leaves. Proper plant spacing helps increase airflow and reduces both blight and purple blotch. Thrips are sucking insects that sometimes attack onion plants, causing the leaves to turn grey or silvery. Thrips are barely visible as tiny yellow or dark specks about 1 mm long. Organic controls for thrips include safer soap or Pyrethrin. They can hide in weeds, so be sure to weed your garden patch after harvest and control weeds in the onion bed throughout the growing season. For pest and disease management, Onion Doctor offers expert agronomic support. Onion Farming in Kenya: Harvesting Proper treatment at harvest maximizes the amount of time you’ll be able to store your onions. When the tops of the onions turn brown or yellow and fall over, it’s time to harvest. Ideally, the plant will have about 13 leaves at this point. Pull the onions early in the morning on a sunny day and shake off excess soil. Dry the onions in the sun for two days. To prevent sunscald, lay the tops of one row over the bulbs of another. For harvesting tips and farm management services, Onion Doctor is here to help. About Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support