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 world of spring onion farming in Kenya, where the versatility of these vibrant greens adds a new dimension to agricultural practices. In this detailed guide, we delve into the ecological requirements, yield potential, seed rates, and land preparation techniques for cultivating spring onions. Additionally, discover the invaluable support provided by Onion Doctor, empowering smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, expert farm planning, and a range of essential agricultural services. Understanding Spring Onions: Spring onions, scientifically known as Allium fistulosum, present a unique addition to the farming landscape. Also recognized as bunching onions, green onions, or scallions, these crops do not develop bulbs. Instead, their succulent leaves are a culinary delight, enriching salads and various dishes. As a farmer, incorporating spring onions offers a swift maturation period, allowing for profitable intercropping with slower-growing vegetables. Ecological Requirements for Successful Spring Onion Farming: Spring onions showcase remarkable adaptability, thriving in a variety of climates. With a preference for loose, well-drained soils boasting a pH level of 6.3 to 6.8, these crops can endure both heat and cold. While they flourish in full sun, they can tolerate partial shade, making them suitable for diverse agricultural settings. Optimizing Yields: Under optimal management practices, spring onions exhibit a remarkable yield potential of 17 tonnes per hectare, translating to approximately 8 tonnes per acre. This promising output underscores the profitability of spring onion farming when guided by effective farming techniques. Seed Rates and Land Preparation: Determining the seed rate for spring onions is crucial, and with a standard row spacing of 30 cm, 5 kgs of spring onion seeds are recommended per acre. Whether directly planted or initiated in a nursery, spring onions require strategic land preparation for successful cultivation. The choice between direct planting and nursery preparation depends on the desired scallion thickness. Onion Doctor’s Expertise: Empower your spring onion farming venture with the unparalleled support of Onion Doctor. Offering a range of services, including quality onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning, soil testing, drip irrigation installation, agronomic support, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor stands as a reliable partner for smallholder farmers. Enhance your yields, optimize profits, and contribute to sustainable farming practices with Onion Doctor’s dedicated assistance.

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, exploring the nuances of cultivating this versatile vegetable in Kenya. From the distinct types of onions to the essential growth processes, join us on a journey enriched with expert insights from Onion Doctor. Uncover the secrets to successful onion cultivation and maximize your yields with the right knowledge. 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. After the long rains of March, the price of these onions hike and farmers who harvest after these period make good profit margins. Spring onions; are easy to plant, you can even plant them at your kitchen garden. They are commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Some of the health benefits of spring onions include lower blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of the two types, bulb onions are more popular than the spring ones due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Currently, there are two different varieties of bulb onions in the market. There is the small, thin and firmly layered onion that has a strong pungent smell from Tanzania. The second one is the big loosely held variety that is grown locally, in Kenya. Onions are categorized according to the color, size and shape. Onions can be harvested while still young; there is a perennial type of onion which is rarely attacked by insects or diseases. The onions can be planted by direct seed or by transplanting. The seedling stage requires planting of seedling in a seedling bed, the soil of the bed should be loose which takes 6 weeks for them to be ready for transplant. Transplanting method has a higher rate of succeeding than direct seeds; onions grow well in raised beds or rows at least 4 inches high, the onion should go 4 inches deep only a third of the bulb should be underground, if the onion is deeply planted the growth of the bulb will be restricted. The width between each onion should be 5 inches; the rows should be 12 to 17 inches apart. Select an open garden when planting to avoid being shaded by other plants. The soil should be loose and rich in nitrogen, compact and hard soil will interfere with bulb development, mix the soil with some nitrogen fertilizer at the time of planting, side dress the onion after every two weeks, make sure you repeat the dressing after every two weeks until the onion starts to bulb. How to Plant: To get the best results with onions you need to start them in a Nursery. Here is how to do this; Make a raised nursery bed 1 metre wide and any desired length. Apply well decomposed manure at a rate of 15kg per square metre. Mix and Apply DAP fertilizer at a rate of 20 grams per metre square Make shallow furrows 15 cm apart. Mix the seeds with dry ash, sand or soil at a ratio of 1:3 to help spread the small seeds. Plant the seeds and cover lightly with soil and apply mulches ( Grass or Polythene cover spread over the soil on the nursery bed) After planting irrigate the nursery bed liberally for the first 10 days and continue watering regularly. Germination of seeds will take about 7-10 days after which the mulches are removed and used to make a shade above the tender plants which have not fully developed. Transplanting of the seedlings takes place 6 weeks after planting seeds in the nursery. Transplant when the seedlings have pencil thick base and a height of approximately 15cm. Seedlings should have 3 to 5 well formed leaves at transplanting time. Two weeks before transplanting reduce the shade to improve seedling survival rate in the field. It takes about 4 months for onions to mature Conditions for Onion Farming 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. 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 Creole, Red Pinnoy, Jambar 1 and Red Bombay. The most popular seed variety in Kenya is the Jambar F1 since it produces high yield and the size of its onions are bigger. 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. Use herbicides to get rid of the diseases. Pests: Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes and the leaf

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 flavorful journey through the diverse world of onions cultivated in Kenyan farming conditions. From the vibrant Red Creole to the mild and sweet Sweet Onions, each variety offers unique characteristics. Join us as we delve into the top 10 onion varieties, enriched with the expert guidance of Onion Doctor, supporting smallholder farmers across Africa. 1.Red Creole Onions The Red Creole onion is a long-day variety that is well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions. This onion is known for its deep red color and its ability to store well, making it a popular choice among farmers and consumers. The bulbs are large and have a crisp texture. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. The Red Creole onions are great for grilling, roasting, and sautéing and are also a great addition to salads and sandwiches. 2. White Lisbon Onions The White Lisbon onion is a short-day variety that is also well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions. This onion is known for its white color and its ability to store well, making it a popular choice among farmers and consumers. The bulbs are small and have a crisp texture. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. White Lisbon onions are great for pickling, and also a great addition to salads and sandwiches. 3. Yellow Granex Onions The Yellow Granex onion is another short-day variety that is well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions. This onion is known for its yellow color and its ability to store well, making it a popular choice among farmers and consumers. The bulbs are medium in size and have a crisp texture. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. Yellow Granex onions are great for pickling, and also a great addition to salads and sandwiches. 4. Sweet Onions Sweet onions are a long-day variety that is known for their mild and sweet flavor. They are not as pungent as traditional onions and are less likely to bring tears to the eyes when cutting them. They are a popular choice for salads, sandwiches, and other dishes where a mild onion flavor is desired. They are also well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions and have a high market demand. They are also great for grilling and roasting 5. Hybrid Onions Hybrid onions are a cross between different varieties of onions and have been genetically modified to be disease resistant and have a higher yield. They are well-suited for Kenyan farming conditions and have a high market demand. They are however more expensive to purchase compared to other varieties. They are great for storage and can be sold for a longer period compared to other varieties. 6. Ailsa Craig Onions Ailsa Craig onions are a long-day variety that is known for its large bulbs and ability to store well. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. They are great for grilling, roasting, and sautéing, and are also a popular choice for pickling. They are a high-demand variety in the Kenyan market. 7. Walla Walla Onions Walla Walla onions are a long-day variety that is known for its sweet flavor and ability to store well. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. They are a popular choice for salads, sandwiches, and other dishes where a sweet onion flavor is desired. They are also great for grilling, roasting, and sautéing. 8. Copra Onions Copra onions are a long-day variety that is known for their high yields and ability to store well. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. They are a popular choice for commercial farmers looking to maximize their yields. They are also great for storage and can be sold for a longer period compared to other varieties. 9. Grano Onions Grano onions are a short-day variety that is known for its large bulbs and ability to store well. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. They are a popular choice for commercial farmers looking to maximize their yields. They are also great for storage and can be sold for a longer period compared to other varieties. 10. Red Burgundy Onions Red Burgundy onions are a long-day variety that is known for their deep red color and ability to store well. They are also resistant to many diseases and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. They are a popular choice for grilling, roasting, and sautéing, and are also a great addition to salads and sandwiches. 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 secrets to successful onion farming in Kenya, a staple vegetable deeply embedded in Kenyan kitchens and cuisines worldwide. As we explore the nuances of onion cultivation, we’ll address crucial factors such as soil health, fertilizer choices, crop varieties, and market considerations. Elevate your farming venture with Onion Doctor’s expert support, empowering smallholder farmers across Africa with quality onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, and a suite of essential agricultural resources Understanding the Onion: onion, scientifically known as Allium, is not merely a vegetable but a culinary cornerstone in Kenyan kitchens. As a close relative of garlic, its versatility extends far beyond borders. However, onion farming in Kenya demands an understanding of the plant’s long-day requirements, restricting the varieties that can thrive in the region due to daylight needs exceeding 12 hours. Crucial Factors for Successful Onion Farming: Embarking on a successful onion farming journey requires meticulous consideration of various factors. Prioritize soil health, choose the right fertilizer, select crop varieties adaptable to your region, and incorporate organic manure for optimal results. Additionally, factors like transportation logistics, crop yields, irrigation, and market dynamics play pivotal roles in shaping a profitable onion farming enterprise. Strategic Planting and Target Markets: The success of your onion farming venture is intricately tied to strategic planting and identifying lucrative target markets. Consider local markets, boarding schools, hospitals, government institutions, NGOs, export markets, and urban areas as potential avenues for selling your produce. Tailoring your planting timing to meet market demand ensures a steady supply and profitable returns. Onion Doctor’s Support: Experience the transformative support of Onion Doctor, a beacon for smallholder farmers across Africa. From providing quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings to offering farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation, agronomic support, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor is a dedicated partner in optimizing yields and maximizing profits for farmers.

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. In the realm of successful onion farming in Kenya, irrigation emerges as a critical factor, demanding careful consideration to ensure a thriving crop. Onion Doctor, dedicated to supporting smallholder farmers, shares insights on the ideal irrigation schedule tailored to Kenya’s diverse conditions, encompassing weather patterns, soil types, and the growth stages of the onion crop. Factors Influencing Onion Irrigation: For a flourishing onion farm in Kenya, understanding the intricacies of irrigation is paramount. Several factors, including weather conditions, soil type, and the growth stage of the crop, shape the ideal irrigation schedule. Balancing moisture levels is crucial, avoiding both overwatering and underwatering, which can adversely impact the crop. Crafting the Perfect Irrigation Schedule: Tailoring the irrigation schedule for onion farms in Kenya involves a nuanced approach. Onions thrive with deep, infrequent watering, especially during the seedling stage, where daily irrigation is essential to maintain consistent soil moisture. As the plants mature, adjusting the schedule to every other day or even every three days, depending on weather conditions, is advisable. Drip irrigation stands out as an efficient method, offering water use efficiency and flexibility in managing irrigation frequency. Adapting to Seasonal Changes: Kenya’s diverse climate demands flexibility in the onion irrigation schedule. During the dry season, characterized by limited rainfall and high temperatures, frequent watering is imperative to uphold soil moisture. Conversely, the rainy season may necessitate a reduction in irrigation frequency. Monitoring soil moisture levels using tools like soil moisture probes ensures precision in irrigation adjustments. Optimal Timing and Water Stress Awareness: Choosing the right time to irrigate is as crucial as the frequency. Early morning emerges as the optimal time, capitalizing on cooler temperatures and reduced evaporation rates. Vigilance for signs of water stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves, is vital. Timely irrigation interventions can mitigate stress and uphold the health of the onion crop. Onion Doctor’s Drip Kits for Efficient Irrigation: Onion Doctor extends its support with high-quality, long-lasting drip kits designed to enhance water use efficiency. Whether you need a drip kit or installation services, Onion Doctor is committed to serving farmers across Africa. The drip kits not only optimize water usage but also contribute to maximizing yields and profits for smallholder farmers. Navigating the intricacies of onion farm irrigation in Kenya requires a holistic approach. By aligning with the expertise of Onion Doctor and embracing an adaptive irrigation schedule, farmers can unlock the full potential of their onion crops. From ideal timings to vigilant moisture monitoring, this guide serves as a valuable resource for onion farmers striving for optimal yields and sustainable agriculture.

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. Embarking on onion farming in Kenya holds immense promise, driven by the country’s fervent demand and the lucrative potential for profitability. Whether your aspirations lean towards bulb onion farming or spring onion cultivation, this guide, enriched with insights from Onion Doctor, aims to equip you with essential knowledge for a thriving onion farming business. The Benefits of Onion Farming in Kenya: Onion farming in Kenya is not merely a venture; it’s a pathway to numerous advantages, making it an attractive pursuit for both subsistence and commercial farmers. Here are key benefits that underscore the allure of onion farming in Kenya: High Demand: Onions, a culinary cornerstone in Kenyan dishes, enjoy unwavering demand. The market’s consistent appetite for onions ensures a steady and lucrative avenue for farmers. Profitability: Retail prices for onions can soar up to 200 shillings per kilogram, offering farmers substantial profits. Wholesale prices, ranging from 35 to 120 shillings per kilogram, contribute to the financial viability of onion farming. Adaptability: Onions can thrive in various Kenyan regions, encompassing Naivasha, Kajiado, Meru, Narok, Nyeri, and Oloitoktok, providing geographic flexibility to farmers. Versatility: Beyond their culinary significance, onions prove versatile in the kitchen. From seasoning soups to enhancing salads and a myriad of recipes, onions open doors to diverse market opportunities. Understanding the Onion Varieties: Before delving into onion farming, a nuanced understanding of suitable onion varieties is paramount. The choice hinges on factors like climate, market demand, and the intended culinary application. The two main categories are: Bulb Onions: Primarily grown for their bulbs, these onions exhibit varying colors, including red, white, and yellow. Notable varieties for Kenyan cultivation include Red Creole, Red Couch F1, Texas Early Grano, Red Pinoy, and Red Passion F1. Spring Onions: Renowned for their non-bulbing nature, spring onions, or scallions, are cultivated for their green stems/leaves. Their high productivity and diverse culinary applications enhance their appeal. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers: Onion Doctor, dedicated to supporting smallholder farmers across Africa, extends a comprehensive range of services and products, ensuring optimal yields and maximum profits. The offerings include: Quality and Affordable Seedlings: Onion and garlic seedlings of premium quality and affordability. Farm Planning Services: Tailored services to strategize and optimize farm planning. Soil Testing: Precise analysis for informed agricultural decisions. Drip Irrigation Installation and Maintenance: High-quality, enduring drip irrigation systems for efficient water use. Agronomic Support: Expert guidance for robust agricultural practices. Onion and Garlic Value Pack: Bundled offerings for enhanced farm productivity. Farm Management: Comprehensive services for effective farm administration. E-extension and On-farm Training: Utilizing technology and on-site training to empower farmers.

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, particularly in Naivasha, Kajiado, Meru, and Oloitoktok, has emerged as a lucrative endeavor due to high demand and favorable climatic conditions. This comprehensive guide, enriched by insights from Onion Doctor, navigates farmers through the nuances of successful onion cultivation, from land preparation to selecting the right onion varieties. How to Prepare Land for Onion Farming: Before delving into onion farming, meticulous land preparation is paramount for success. Here’s a step-by-step guide: Choose a Suitable Location: Onions thrive best in altitudes of 500 – 2000M above sea level, and regions with a rainfall of 500 – 700mm. Excess rain can lead to bulb rot, emphasizing the need for a careful selection of the planting location. Soil Requirements: Ensure the soil has good water-holding capabilities and a pH of 6 – 7. Prioritize altitudes and regions that align with these soil conditions. Land Preparation: Proper land preparation sets the stage for a successful onion harvest. Follow these steps: Early Ploughing and Harrowing: Plough the land at least three weeks before planting and harrow it three times to achieve a fine tilth. Organic Manure Application: Apply at least 40 tonnes of organic manure per acre.  Onion Varieties: Choosing the right onion variety is pivotal for a thriving farming business. Explore these notable varieties: Red Creole Onion: Suited for hot climates, resistant to pink rot, with small to medium bulbs and a yield potential of 15 – 28 tonnes per acre. Ideal for commercial farming. Red Couch F1: A hybrid, pink rot-resistant variety with medium to dark red bulbs, catering to hotel and catering industry preferences. Requires a capital of 100,000 – 150,000 per acre and yields 20 – 30 tonnes. Texas Early Grano: With a white gold color and mild pungency, favored by hotels, it matures in 120 days and adapts to various ecological zones. Red Pinoy: Adaptable to different ecological zones, suitable for export, with a shelf life of six months, resistant to diseases like purple blotch and downy mildew. Red Passion F1 Onion: A hybrid red onion for low and medium-altitude areas, resistant to diseases, good curing and storage capabilities, maturing in 90 days. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers: Onion Doctor stands as a pillar of support for smallholder farmers, offering a range of services and products to optimize yields and profits: Quality Seedlings: Providing quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings. Farm Planning Services: Tailored services for effective farm planning. Soil Testing: Precise soil analysis for informed agricultural decisions. Drip Irrigation Installation and Maintenance: High-quality, enduring drip irrigation systems for efficient water use. Agronomic Support: Expert guidance for robust agricultural practices. Onion and Garlic Value Pack: Bundled offerings for enhanced farm productivity. Farm Management: Comprehensive services for effective farm administration. E-extension and On-farm Training: Leveraging technology and on-site training for farmer empowerment.

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, particularly in regions like Naivasha, Kajiado, Meru, and Oloitoktok, has become a thriving venture. With the crop’s resilience in hot and dry climates, high demand, and prices soaring up to 100 shillings per kilogram, it presents an excellent opportunity for farmers. This guide, enriched with insights from Onion Doctor, details the step-by-step process of successful onion farming, from land preparation to selecting the right onion varieties. How to Prepare Land for Onion Farming: Before delving into onion farming, meticulous land preparation is paramount for success. Here’s a step-by-step guide: Choose a Suitable Location: Onions thrive best in altitudes of 500 – 2000M above sea level, and regions with a rainfall of 500 – 700mm. Excess rain can lead to bulb rot, emphasizing the need for a careful selection of the planting location. Soil Requirements: Ensure the soil has good water-holding capabilities and a pH of 6 – 7. Prioritize altitudes and regions that align with these soil conditions. Early Land Preparation: Plough the land at least three weeks before planting and harrow it three times for a fine tilth. Organic Manure Application: Apply at least 40 tonnes of organic manure per acre, ensuring well-nourished soil. Onion Propagation and Planting: Choosing the right onion variety and ensuring optimal germination rate are crucial for successful onion farming: Selecting Suitable Seed Varieties: Identify a suitable seed variety and test germination rate. A rate above 70% is ideal for planting. Nursery Management: Solarize the soil for nursery management, choosing a site close to water, with a gentle slope to prevent waterlogging. Ensure the bed is raised and treat seeds before planting. Onion Propagation: Sow seeds in a well-prepared nursery bed using line sowing. Protect seedlings from direct sunlight with mulching. Onion Varieties: Selecting the right onion variety is pivotal for a thriving farming business. Explore these notable varieties recommended by Onion Doctor: Red Creole Onion: Suited for hot climates, resistant to pink rot, with small to medium bulbs and a yield potential of 15 – 28 tonnes per acre. Ideal for commercial farming. Red Couch F1: A hybrid, pink rot-resistant variety with medium to dark red bulbs, catering to hotel and catering industry preferences. Requires a minimum capital of 100,000 – 150,000 per acre and yields 20 – 30 tonnes. Texas Early Grano: With a white gold color and mild pungency, favored by hotels, it matures in 120 days and adapts to various ecological zones. Red Pinoy: Adaptable to different ecological zones, suitable for export, with a shelf life of six months, resistant to diseases like purple blotch and downy mildew. 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. Embarking on a successful onion farming journey in Kenya begins with selecting the right seeds. This guide, enriched with insights from Onion Doctor, explores the best hybrid and non-hybrid onion seeds in Kenya, providing farmers with the knowledge they need for a thriving harvest. Choosing the Best Onion Seeds in Kenya: Selecting the best onion seeds is crucial for a bountiful harvest. Consider the following factors to make an informed choice: Farm Location: Choose seeds that thrive in your specific agroecological location. For instance, the Bombay Red variety is versatile and performs well in diverse agro-climate zones. Yield Potential: Opt for varieties with high yield potential for commercial onion farming. Notable varieties like Neptune F1 offer 16 tons per acre, while Red Pinoy F1 can yield an impressive 30 tons in the same conditions. Days to Maturity: Determine whether you need an early or late-maturing variety based on your farming goals. Onions are typically ready for harvest 80-120 days after transplanting. Shelf Life: Consider varieties with a long shelf life, up to 6 months. These onions are favored by traders and retailers for their durability, minimizing business losses. Resistance to Diseases and Pests: Choose onion varieties that exhibit resistance or tolerance to common issues such as pink rot disease, thrips, or purple blotch infections. This reduces the need for pesticides, cutting production costs. Why Grow Hybrid Onions? Opting for hybrid onion seeds in Kenya brings several advantages: Cost-Effectiveness: Hybrid seeds are resistant to pests and diseases, resulting in lower production costs due to reduced pesticide and herbicide use. Profitability: Hybrid seeds are fast-growing and early maturing, allowing for quicker harvesting and multiple seasons per year. They also yield high quantities and boast longer shelf lives. Sustainability: Many hybrid seeds are tolerant to adverse conditions like high temperatures and moisture stress, enabling farmers to navigate climate change risks effectively. Why Grow OPV Onions? Non-hybrid or OPV onion seeds also have their unique benefits: Cost-Effectiveness: Non-hybrid seeds are generally more affordable than hybrid seeds, making them a budget-friendly option. Adaptability: OPV seeds are often better adapted to local growing conditions, leading to improved yields and quality. Seed Saving: Non-hybrid seeds can be saved for subsequent planting seasons, allowing farmers to maintain a seed supply without recurring expenses. Organic Farming: Preferred by organic farmers, OPV seeds are not genetically modified and can be grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers: Onion Doctor serves as a valuable ally for smallholder farmers, offering a range of essential services and products: Quality Seedlings: Providing affordable and high-quality onion and garlic seedlings. Farm Planning Services: Tailored services for effective farm planning. Soil Testing: Precise soil analysis to inform agricultural decisions. Drip Irrigation Installation and Maintenance: Durable drip irrigation systems for efficient water use. Agronomic Support: Expert guidance for robust agricultural practices. Onion and Garlic Value Pack: Bundled offerings for enhanced farm productivity. Farm Management: Comprehensive services for effective farm administration. E-Extension and On-Farm Training: Leveraging technology and on-site training for farmer empowerment.

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. Delving into onion farming in Kenya is a promising venture, driven by rising urbanization and a growing population. The demand for onions is soaring, making it a lucrative agribusiness. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most profitable onion varieties in Kenya, coupled with insights from Onion Doctor, a trusted partner for smallholder farmers. Lucrative Onion Varieties in Kenya: Red Creole Onion: Highly sought-after for its strong flavor and attractive red color. Boasts high yield potential and excellent storage qualities. Matures in 90-110 days, allowing multiple harvests throughout the year. Bombay Red Onion: Deep red color, medium-sized bulbs, and a pungent taste. Resistant to diseases, minimizing crop loss. Matures in 100-120 days with good storage qualities. Texas Grano Onion: Known for large size and mild flavor. High-yielding and matures in approximately 160 days. Extended growing period results in larger bulb sizes and higher market prices. Jambar F1 Onion: Hybrid variety with high yield potential and good storage qualities. Mild flavor, making it versatile for various recipes. Resistant to several diseases, reducing the risk of crop loss. Red Pinoy Onion: Unique variety well-suited to the Kenyan climate. Attractive deep red color, high yield potential, and good storage. Matures in 100-120 days, enabling multiple harvests. White Lisbon Onion: White in color with a long shelf life. Small bulbs with a crisp texture, resistant to diseases and pests. Ideal for pickling, salads, and sandwiches. Yellow Granex Onion: Yellow color with extended storage capacity. Medium-sized bulbs, crunchy texture, and resistance to diseases. Excellent for pickling and a tasty addition to salads. Sweet Onion: Known for its mild and sweet taste. Less pungent smell, perfect for salads, sandwiches, grilling, and roasting. Thrives in Kenyan farming conditions with high market demand. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers: Onion Doctor plays a pivotal role in supporting smallholder farmers across Africa: Quality Seedlings: Providing affordable and high-quality onion and garlic seedlings. Farm Planning Services: Tailored services for effective farm planning. Soil Testing: Precise soil analysis to inform agricultural decisions. Drip Irrigation Installation and Maintenance: Durable drip irrigation systems for efficient water use. Agronomic Support: Expert guidance for robust agricultural practices. Onion and Garlic Value Pack: Bundled offerings for enhanced farm productivity. Farm Management: Comprehensive services for effective farm administration. E-Extension and On-Farm Training: Leveraging technology and on-site training for farmer empowerment.