Onion Farming

Farming, Onion Farming

Mastering Onion Farming in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide with Onion Doctor

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Unlock the secrets to successful onion cultivation in Kenya with this comprehensive guide, crafted for both beginners and seasoned farmers. Partnering with Onion Doctor, we delve into the nuances of soil preparation, sowing techniques, and expert tips to ensure a bountiful onion harvest. Let’s cultivate excellence in onion farming together. Site Preparation If adding manure or composted organic matter then add a few weeks before sowing / planting out. You can tread the soil gently to firm it up a bit prior to sowing. Sowing Onion Seed & Planting Sets Onions can be planted from seed or from sets . Sets are more expensive but they tend to be more reliable in their results and also require less work – no thinning and reduced onion fly risk. If sowing from seed then sow in drills about 2cm deep with about 1 inch between seeds. If sowing in rows then space the rows about 30cm apart. The soil should be moist before sowing so check the soil the day before sowing and water if the soil is dry. Again space rows about 30cm apart. Sow sets around 10cm apart as they shouldn’t require any thinning. Dig a small hole for each set and place the set in neck upwards. When covered back up with soil the tip of the neck should just show through the soil surface. Spring onions (scallion) can be sown from April and planting should be staggered every few weeks to ensure a continuous crop throughout the growing season. Soil type Onions will grow in almost any soil from sandy loams to heavy clay. The soil should be firm. If your soil is heavy then you can introduce some organic compost or manure into the soil to help its moisture retaining properties. Onions prefer a slightly acidic soil – PH 5.5-6.5 is a good PH for growing onions. Planting Onion Sets Onions will need a realtively fertile soil with a good tilth and good dranage. If you have a heavy wet soil we recommend using riased beds to avoid potential disease caused by damp conditions. Avoid using fresh manure. Onions will enjoy a warm, sunny site. Growing onions from sets is much easier than growing from seed and perfect for the beginner. Onion sets are just small, immature onions from the previous year. Plant the onions from early March till the end of April. Red onions are more likely to bolt and a later April planting can reduce the chance of this happening.  Here are some tips to help you pick the best:  You don’t want any shoots, you might think you’re getting a head start but you’ll just get a very poor quality bulb.  Avoid any skinny looking ones.  Discard anything with mould or brown patches on the skin.  Any very big sets are more likely to run to seed.  Nice, tidy and round and oval bulbs will produce an excellent onion. Planting Push the sets about 1 cm into loose soil approx 10cm apart with 25cm between rows, leave about half of the onion showing above the soil. Birds seem to love pulling them out of the ground and scattering them round the garden. You can solve this by placing enviromesh or cloches over them for the first month which I strongly recommend. Firm the bed before planting either by standing on a timber plank of leaving the soil to settle a couple of weeks before planting. If the soil is very loose the roots don’t get a firm hold, the plant thinks it’s starving and can run to seed . If you want to be clever and save weeding later on you can plant through a sheet of black plastic. Spread the plastic over your prepared bed, make a hole just large enough for each set and just pop them in. Onion Crop Care Your onions should be well rooted now so it will be safe to remove the cloche. It is important to hoe regularly around the plants as onions don’t have foliage to suppress weeds. Take care when hoeing as onions have very shallow root systems and you may damage them with deep, vigorous strokes. Hoe regularily to control weeds and to stimulate the growth of the plant. One of the best gardening tools you’ll ever buy is the oscillating stirrup hoe. It’s a very effective old fashioned tool that really works properly. Hoeing not only removes the weeds but it also breaks up the surface of the soil and creates a fine texture or ’tilth’. A good tilth lets air and moisture in to the roots of your plants thus increasing their vigour. Watering and Mulching Onions If the sun is proving hot and dry keep your onions watered. Onions have a very shallow root system and so will dry out a lot quicker than other plants. This can cause the onions to mature early leaving you with small bulbs. When watering you are better to give the area a thorough soaking to a depth of 6 inches rather than watering all the time. Also it’s better to water early in the morning as midday irrigation can evaporate quickly. Evening watering will leave the plants cold and damp over night like going to bed in wet pyjamas! Mulching onions when the tops are 10 – 12 inches tall can also help as the mulch will retain moisture. Onion Flower Stems Break off any flower stems which may appear, this is the onion trying to bolt. A hard stem will be produced inside the onion making it unsuitable for storing. Breaking the stem off will not prevent this from happening

Farming, Onion Farming

Optimizing Onion Farming in Kenya: A Step-by-Step Guide with Onion Doctor

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Embark on a successful journey of onion farming in Kenya with the expert guidance of Onion Doctor. Learn the essential steps, from seedbed preparation to transplanting, and discover the key practices that lead to maximum yields. This comprehensive guide is your gateway to successful onion cultivation. Onion seeds are first grown on a raised seedbed for germination and then transplanted to the main field for harvest. It is encouraged to prepare a seedbed two to three weeks before sowing seeds near the planting site to make it easier during transplanting. Making Seedbed For Onion Farming The following guidelines are on how to make a seedbed for onion farming: 1. Prepare a raised seedbed of 12 cm wide with your chosen length. It should be in the shade to protect the seedlings from direct sunlight. 2. Add organic fertilizer and mix the soil.  3. Irrigate the raised seedbed one day before sowing the seeds. 4. On the seedbed, make rows of 15 cm apart and drill seed thinly to a depth of 1 cm. 5. Cover seeds using soil and mulch for 7 to 10 days to germinate. 6. Water the seedbed daily in the morning and evening. After the germination, remove the mulch to allow the seedlings to grow upright and strong. How to Grow Onions in Kenya Drain the Seedbed if There Are Excess Water When the farmer approaches the day of transplanting seedlings, it is advisable to reduce the watering of the seedbed to make the structure of the seedlings strong. Also, remove the shade that is covered in the seedbed to get the seedlings more used to stronger sunshine. Irrigate the Seedbed Before transplanting, the seedbed is irrigated to avoid damage to seedlings when pulling them from the seedbed. The field is watered on the day you intend to transplant the seedlings.  In Kenya, onions grow well in well-drained soil, fertile sandy loam soil, and non-compacted soils with a PH of 6.0 to 7.0. Onion farming requires an ideal temperature of 13 to 24 degrees, especially during germination, which is helpful to the onion seeds. Prepare and Plough the Land The land is prepared and ploughed one month before transplanting onion seedlings. The soil should be reduced to fine particles for two weeks before transplanting to make planting easier. Put the ripe animal manure in the field. This will make the soil rigid and increase moisture retention for an extended period. Thereafter, mix the organic fertilizer well with the soil and make furrows for planting onions. Transplanting Transplanting of onion seedlings is done six to eight weeks after sowing seeds. Similarly, you can transplant onions when they have produced three to five well-formed leaves. It is done early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not burning hot. Using a shovel, uproot seedlings from the seedbed and plant them in the already prepared land for onions. The seedlings are planted in 2.5 to 3 cm deep trenches at a space of 30 cm between rows and 8 to 12 cm from one seedling to another. Organic manure is added to the holes when seedlings are planted. Select healthy seedlings and free from pests from seedbed to plant and then firm up the seedlings with the surrounding soil. After you are done with transplanting, water the seedlings and continue watering in the morning and evening until the seedlings hold well in the soil. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.

Farming, Onion Farming

Maximizing Onion Farming Success in Kenya: Expert Tips from Onion Doctor

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Unlock the full potential of onion farming in Kenya with the guidance of Onion Doctor. From soil considerations to overcoming challenges, this guide equips you with essential insights for a successful onion harvest. Embrace the journey of year-round onion cultivation with optimal results through irrigation. Let’s explore the key elements that contribute to onion farming success in Kenya. Onions perform well in well drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils. The ideal pH is 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthy venture since it’s possible to grow onions throughout the year via irrigation. Soil test with accredited laboratories is advised. The ideal temperatures onions need to grow are between 13 – 35 degrees centigrade. This means that onions can grow in most parts of Kenya. However, to maximize production in areas such as Ukambani and some parts in the Coastal area, one needs to invest in a greenhouse and drip irrigation. This is because greenhouses will optimize the temperatures since these areas are hot and irrigation will provide the much needed water. Onions are a cool season crop. Most areas in Ukambani and the Coastal region are extremely dry. In terms of requirements, apart from land that is an obvious fact, other requirements are DAP Fertilizer and seedlings. 1 kg of seedlings can be used in 1 acre while 20 grams of DAP Fertilizer is applied per square meter. You should note that there are different seed varieties and they perform differently under different conditions. Common hybrid varieties available in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1. The most popular seed variety in Kenya is the Red Coach F1 since it produces high yield and the size and color of its onions are most ideal for the Kenyan markets. Challenges facing Onion Farming in Kenya Rains or Excess Watering: Too much rains or excess watering can water log 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 on onions is drip irrigation. Overhead irrigation should be avoided as it causes fungal diseases. Diseases: Common diseases that affect onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. . Pests: Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes and the leaf miner.  Weeds: Weeds are a big challenge in onion farms. . Harvesting onions The best time to do the harvesting is during the dry season. Keep a calendar and record the essential dates to ensure you harvest at the right time. 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 for harvesting when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Harvesting is done by pulling the bulbs and then chopping off the leaves. You then dry the bulbs in the sun before storing the produce. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.

Farming, Onion Farming

Revolutionizing Onion Farming in Kenya with Onion Doctor’s Drip Irrigation Expertise

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Unlock the secrets of thriving onion cultivation in Kenya through the game-changing approach of drip irrigation. Onion Doctor, your trusted partner, introduces you to a sustainable and profitable experience in large-scale bulb production. Delve into the advantages, profitability, and essential components of onion drip irrigation farming, transforming arid lands into fertile and productive havens. Step into the world of Onion Doctor, your dedicated companion in onion farming. Learn how Onion Doctor’s expertise and support can elevate your farming journey. Whether you seek guidance on kit selection or comprehensive services, Onion Doctor is here to ensure your success at a competitive price based on your acreage. How profitable is Onion Farming in Kenya? Onion farming is highly profitable, with the current cost of onion bulbs increasing. The growing of onions under drip irrigation is a good venture with a high output when well maintained. An acre of onions can produce 3–6 tonnes of onions under drip irrigation. Advantages of Onion Drip Irrigation Farming Diseases are less spread on onions grown under drip irrigation systems, a better step to lower chemical reliance on insecticides and pesticides. Such diseases as fungal infections and leave burns, cases that can occur on overhead irrigation of onions. Drip irrigation is easier to manage and unlike rainfall or furrow irrigation, you can control the rate of water flow to the onion farms. Onions need water during the planting period, but the ground should be dry when harvesting nears to prevent the bulbs from damage. Therefore, you need to stop irrigation 2–3 weeks before harvesting. Another benefit of working with drip irrigation is the low labour requirement and cheap cost of maintenance. Few labours force is required for simple tasks of opening and closing valves and taps, maintenance and checking the water flow. Onion Drip Kits The components for drip irrigation can include basic drip components to complex drip irrigation kits. The components include: HDPE mainline pipes Sub main line pipes or laterals Drip lines Drip Connectors End caps Ball valves Filters Fertilizer tanks Water tanks Tap connectors Connector fittings Male and female adaptors Thread tape or Glue seal Elbow, clamps or straight connectors. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.

Farming, Onion Farming

Mastering Onion Farming in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide with Onion Doctor Expertise

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke Unlock the secrets of successful onion farming in Kenya, where the onion, a versatile vegetable, takes center stage in local cuisine. This guide explores the nuances of cultivating onions, from varieties and planting techniques to overcoming challenges, with a spotlight on the indispensable support provided by Onion Doctor. Understanding Onion Varieties: In Kenya, bulb onions and spring onions reign supreme. Bulb onions, with a maturity period of 3 to 4 months, thrive during short rains, offering harvest opportunities between January and February. On the other hand, spring onions, celebrated for their health benefits, present an easy-to-plant option for kitchen gardens. Despite their unique attributes, bulb onions steal the spotlight, boasting a longer shelf life and a sweeter taste. Planting Techniques for Optimal Yield: To achieve optimal onion yield, careful consideration must be given to the planting method. Starting with a nursery is crucial for success. A raised nursery bed, enriched with well-decomposed manure and DAP fertilizer, provides an ideal environment. Shallow furrows, spaced appropriately, serve as the canvas for planting seeds mixed with dry ash, sand, or soil. Transplanting seedlings with a pencil-thick base after six weeks ensures a successful transition to the main field. Conditions for Successful Onion Farming: Creating the right conditions is paramount for successful onion farming. Onions thrive in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils with an ideal pH range of 5.8 to 6.8. The versatility of onion farming is highlighted by its ability to be practiced throughout the year via irrigation. Critical requirements include DAP fertilizer and quality seedlings, with popular hybrid varieties like Red Creole, Red Pinnoy, Jambar 1, and Red Bombay dominating the market. Challenges and Solutions in Onion Farming: While onion farming in Kenya holds great promise, it comes with its set of challenges. Excess watering, diseases like Downy Mildew, pests such as maggots and thrips, and the constant threat of weeds can jeopardize the crop. Mitigating these challenges involves strategic irrigation practices, disease prevention through herbicides, pest control using accredited pesticides, and regular weeding sessions. Harvesting Techniques for Maximum Yield: Timing is everything in onion harvesting. Bulb onions, ready for harvest during the dry season, display a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or withered foliage. Spring onions, at their prime when 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick, undergo a simple harvesting process involving pulling the bulbs, chopping off the leaves, and sun-drying before storage. Onion Doctor: Empowering Farmers for Maximum Profits: In the quest for onion farming success, Onion Doctor emerges as a trusted ally. Providing 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 packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor ensures farmers optimize yields and achieve maximum profits.

Farming, Onion Farming

Optimizing Onion and Garlic Farming in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide to Integrated Weed Management

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Embark on a journey to successful onion and garlic farming in Kenya, overcoming unique challenges through an integrated weed management program. Discover the significance of tailored weed control strategies and how Onion Doctor’s expertise revolutionizes crop management for smallholder farmers. Explore the intricacies of planting densities, weed competition, and effective pre-planting weed management methods. An integrated weed management program is essential for onion and garlic production because of the unique challenges posed by their planting densities and susceptibility to weed competition. These crops are slow-growing and shallow-rooted, planted at high densities, and susceptible to severe yield loss from weed competition. Their narrow, upright leaves do not compete well with weeds, and their long growing season allows for successive flushes of weeds. Weed control is often challenging in these crops because few herbicides are registered, mechanical cultivation is often limited in high-density plantings, and hand-weeding can be costly. A good integrated weed management plan can increase the ease and effectiveness of these management tactics. Planting densities for onion and garlic pose unique challenges to weed management. These crops are sown at high plant densities and are not thinned to produce the greatest possible yield per acre. Onions are planted with 4 to 10 seed lines on beds that are 40 to 80 inches wide (furrow to furrow), or 36 inches wide in the intermountain area. Garlic is typically planted with 2 to 4 seed lines on 40-inch beds. These planting configurations limit cultivation to the furrow and narrow row middles on the bed top. Emphasis must be placed on techniques that reduce weed pressure before planting, such as the use of the stale seedbed method, weed-free seed, or soil solarization. Any method that reduces the amount of weed seed in the soil will reduce weeding costs during crop production. Another good way to prevent weed problems is to control existing weeds before they go to seed. Weed Management Before Planting Nonchemical control options are primarily limited to the preplant period in onion and garlic production. For most weed control methods, timing is important because small weed seedlings are easier to kill than larger weeds. Crop Rotation With Cover Crops: Cover crops are rarely used in onion and garlic production. However, they can provide a variety of benefits to the crop when used in crop rotations, especially if they are grown in the fall prior to planting Alliums. Timing is the key to whether cover crops promote or inhibit weed growth. If cover crops become established quickly, they will suppress weeds. Adequate seeding rate of the cover crop is also an important factor in providing rapid ground cover and suppressing weeds. Vigorous cover crops that provide complete ground cover in the first 30 days of the cover crop cycle are very competitive with weeds and greatly limit weed growth.  Avoid slow-growing  cover crops, including legumes and many cereal-legume mixes, which allow substantial weed growth and set seed early in the growth cycle of the cover crop. Cover crop residues must have adequate time (at least 3 to 4 weeks) to break down in the soil before planting onion and garlic, which require shallow, precise seeding depth with good seed-to-soil contact. Cover crop residues can increase pressure from certain diseases and insect pests. For example, cover crops can increase seedcorn maggot numbers. If a cover crop is used, incorporate the cover crop three to four weeks before planting onion or garlic to avoid tilling in green residues that attract this pest. Cover crops also have the potential to increase weed pressure for the following reasons. Annual weeds frequently establish themselves at the time of the cover crop. Depending upon the species, weeds can grow in the cover crop and set seed unnoticed. Weeds often decompose before the end of the cover crop cycle, making their detection difficult. In such cases, the cover crops act as nurse crops to weeds, making substantial contribution to the weed seed bank. It is important to monitor your cover crops, particularly in the first 40 days following seeding, to make sure that they are not creating a weed problem for subsequent plantings of onion and garlic. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.

Farming, Onion Farming

Cultivating Success: The Ultimate Guide to Onion Farming in Kenya with Onion Doctor Expertise

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Embark on a journey into the thriving world of onion farming in Kenya, a burgeoning industry fueled by high demand and stable prices. This comprehensive guide explores the significance of onion farming, its importance in the Kenyan context, the diverse types of onions cultivated, and the indispensable role played by Onion Doctor in empowering smallholder farmers across Africa. Unveiling Onion Farming: Onion farming, a flourishing venture in Kenya, involves cultivating onions for their versatile use in various dishes. Renowned for their rich flavor and nutritional value, onions are a staple crop ideally suited for hot and dry climates with well-drained loamy soil. The cultivation process encompasses selecting suitable varieties, soil preparation, seed planting, attentive care, and timely harvesting, requiring expertise in planting techniques, soil conditions, watering, pest and disease management. Significance of Onion Farming in Kenya: Onion farming holds a pivotal role in Kenya, serving as a dietary staple and economic backbone. Beyond flavoring local dishes, onions contribute significantly to the livelihoods of small-scale and commercial farmers, offering income and employment opportunities. This agricultural pursuit fosters food security by reducing reliance on imports, stabilizing local onion prices, and enhancing agricultural diversity to mitigate risks associated with mono-cropping. Diverse Onion Varieties in Kenya: Kenya boasts a variety of onion types, each catering to distinct culinary preferences. From the vibrant Red Creole Onions used in salads to the classic Bulb Onions versatile in cooking, and the mild Spring Onions for garnish, to the sweet Yellow Sweet Onions ideal for caramelizing, the onion varieties reflect culinary diversity. Onion Doctor plays a crucial role in supporting farmers to cultivate these diverse onion types successfully. The different types of onions grown in Kenya In Kenya, several types of onions are grown, each with its unique characteristics and uses. These onion varieties cater to diverse culinary preferences and market demands. Here are some of the different types of onions commonly cultivated in Kenya: Red Creole Onions: These onions are known for their vibrant red or purple skin and mild flavor. They are often used raw in salads and sandwiches due to their sweet taste and appealing color. Bulb Onions: Bulb onions are the most common type grown in Kenya. They have a classic round shape and come in different sizes, from small to large. They have a pungent flavor and are versatile for both cooking and raw consumption. Spring Onions (Scallions): Spring onions are characterized by their long green leaves and small white bulbs. They have a milder taste compared to bulb onions and are often used as a garnish or ingredient in soups and stir-fries. Red Shallots: These onions have a more elongated shape and a reddish-brown skin. They offer a sweeter and milder flavor compared to traditional bulb onions. Red shallots are commonly used in various cuisines to add a delicate onion taste. Yellow Sweet Onions: These onions have a golden-yellow skin and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. They are commonly used in cooking and are a popular choice for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. White Onions: White onions have a white skin and a sharp, pungent flavor. They are often used in Mexican cuisine and are great for salsas and dishes where a strong onion taste is desired. Pearl Onions: These are small, round onions that are usually pickled or used in stews and soups. They add a burst of flavor and are also known as “baby onions.” Onion Doctor: Empowering Farmers for Success: In the pursuit of optimal yields, Onion Doctor emerges as a beacon of support for smallholder farmers across Africa. Offering quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation, agronomic support, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor ensures farmers harness the full potential of their onion cultivation endeavors, maximizing profits and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Farming, Onion Farming

The Ultimate Guide to Onion Farming in Kenya.

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Embark on a journey into the world of onion farming in Kenya, exploring diverse onion types, the growth process, and invaluable insights from Onion Doctor. Discover the untapped potential of Kenyan soil and the opportunity for farmers to contribute to the country’s self-sufficiency in red onion production. Types of Onions grown in Kenya. -Bulb Onions -Spring Onions.  Kenya has been importing a percentage of its most used onions… the red onion. While we have large uninhabited portions of fertile farming land that are suitable for onion farming. Onion grows in different areas in Kenya, but not all. Naivasha. Oloitoktok. Emali and many other places are situated around central Kenya. Be that as it may, Kenya has the agricultural prowess to produce its own red onions. In fact, that serves as an opportunity for more onion farmers to join the bandwagon and create employment by growing this lucrative crop. What is the process of growing onions? Different onions have different methods of planting that guarantee success in productivity at different levels. Spring onions are much easier and more versatile and can literally be planted anywhere with a flexible budget. onion farming in kenya Spring Onion. I used to use this type of onion to cook while I was on campus. It is very economical and can be used very well for seasoning soups and in salads as well. The spring onion can also be planted even in pots in your backyard, making it reasonably easier to manage than the bulb onion. The spring onion however has a short shelf life and can only be used within a short period of time before its leaves turn yellow. This is because when using the spring onion to cook, even the leaves are used!  Bulb Onion. onion farming in kenya From the name, this is a type of onion that has some sort of bulb shape to it. There are many differences between the bulb and the spring onion. Being the most common onion used in homes in Kenya, it is in high demand all the time. That is the main reason why Kenya imports onions at some point during the season! The demand cannot be satisfied by the onion farmers that we already have in the country. Bulb onions are usually cured or dried to increase their shelf life. This means that when they are dried, they can stay for a very long time before they spoil. Curing just removes some level of moisture from the onion that may be disadvantageous to the shelf life of the onion. The bulb onion generically takes about three to four months to mature. Much can be done to ensure the successful harvest of this lucrative crop. In detail; Soil Requirements.  The onion does well in soil that naturally drains water and rainfall easily. Waterlogged soils cause early rot and undergrowth with the crop. Soils must also be tested to ensure the right ph for the successful growth of a productive onion crop. The most favorable ph is an average ph of around 5.8 to 6.7 or 6.8. The soil should not be too acidic or too basic. Soil testing can be professionally done by local laboratories in your area. Water and temperature requirements. Onions in general require just an adequate amount of rainfall. Farmers are advised to grow the onion during periods that receive short rains because too much rain leads to the rotting and spoiling of the crop. In areas that receive little to no rainfall, irrigation is advised. There are various methods of irrigation that can be used for onion farming. However, before picking a method of irrigation, at least learn the type of soil that you are growing your onions on so as not to spoil your crop. Methods of irrigation used in the onion are; Drip irrigation: This is a method of irrigation that uses a system of pipelines that adequately distribute water to the root of various crops in a specific field. It is a super method of irrigation that minimizes water loss as well as improves root formation and supports plant growth.  Basin Irrigation: From the name, the crop is planted in ‘basins’ and a channel of water is directed into the basins from time to time. Either daily or weekly. Hand Watering using a watering can: This one requires a lot of labor and time. Hand watering using watering cans is mostly used by kitchen garden farmers who have only to cover small spaces. Fertilizer. Fertilizer that will be used on the onion crop will largely help in bulb formation. As this is the main part of the crop.  Inorganic fertilizers are the most used in Kenya because they are the most effective, or so ‘they’ say. I stick with cow manure! It is the best natural fertilizer, has all the nutrients, and is undeniably 100 percent organic! Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.

Farming, Onion Farming

Onion Farming in Kenya: Unveiling Varieties Tailored for Success with Onion Doctor

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Discover the dynamic world of onion farming in Kenya, where the equatorial location provides a favorable environment for cultivating both long-day and short-day onion varieties. In this comprehensive guide, explore the characteristics of diverse onion types, including the renowned Red Creole, White Lisbon, Sweet, Hybrid, Walla Walla, and Grano onions, each thriving in Kenyan farming conditions. Elevate your onion farming journey with the expert support of Onion Doctor, committed to empowering smallholder farmers across Africa. Kenya’s unique geography allows for the cultivation of both long-day and short-day onions. Long-day onions, requiring extended daylight periods, and short-day onions, thriving with shorter daylight periods, find a suitable home in Kenya’s consistent equatorial conditions. This versatility contributes to the success of onion farming across the nation. Red Creole Onions: Description: A long-day variety, known for its vibrant red hue, excellent storage capabilities, and resistance to diseases and pests. Culinary Uses: Ideal for grilling, roasting, sautéing, salads, and sandwiches. Adaptability: Well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions. White Lisbon Onions: Description: A short-day variety with small, crisp bulbs, excellent storage qualities, and resistance to diseases and pests. Culinary Uses: Perfect for pickling, salads, and sandwiches. Adaptability: Well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions. Sweet Onions: Description: Long-day variety celebrated for its mild, sweet flavor, and reduced pungency. Culinary Uses: Popular in salads, sandwiches, grilling, and roasting. Adaptability: Well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions with high market demand. Hybrid Onions: Description: Genetically modified for disease resistance and increased yield. Culinary Uses: Versatile; suitable for various dishes. Adaptability: Well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions with a high market demand. Walla Walla Onions: Description: Long-day variety prized for its sweet flavor, disease resistance, and excellent storage. Culinary Uses: Ideal for salads, sandwiches, grilling, roasting, and sautéing. Adaptability: Well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions. Grano Onions: Description: Short-day variety with large bulbs and excellent storage capabilities. Culinary Uses: Popular among commercial farmers for maximizing yields. Adaptability: Well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers: Elevate your onion farming journey with the dedicated assistance of Onion Doctor. Providing quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation, agronomic support, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor stands as a reliable partner for smallholder farmers across Africa. Optimize yields, enhance profitability, and contribute to sustainable farming practices with Onion Doctor’s comprehensive support.

Farming, Onion Farming

Unlocking Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Onion Farming in Kenya with Onion Doctor

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Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Discover the wealth of opportunities in onion farming in Kenya, a thriving and lucrative business with Onion Doctor. This comprehensive guide covers the key aspects of onion cultivation, from growth and care to harvesting, varieties, and market dynamics. 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. Different Varieties of Onion to Grow in Kenya There are various types of Onion you can grow in Kenya, depending on your climate and soil conditions. Common varieties of Onion include shallots, red onions, white onions, yellow onions, sweet onions and pickling onions. Shallots tend to have a milder flavor and are often used in salads and other dishes that call for a subtle flavor. Red onions tend to be sharp in flavor, while white onions are a bit milder and sweeter. Yellow onions have the most pungent taste and are best used in sauces or cooked dishes. Sweet onions have the least pungent flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked. Pickling onions have thin skin and small size, making them ideal for pickling or using in salads or relishes. When deciding which variety of Onion to grow in Kenya, consider the type of soil you have available and the climate conditions you’ll experience throughout the year. If you’re unsure what varieties will thrive best, consult with a knowledgeable local farmer for advice on what type of Onion is best suited to your situation. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits.

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