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. Embark on a journey to elevate your onion farming in Kenya with the expert guidance of Onion Doctor. From the ideal planting times to specific varieties, we unveil the secrets to a successful onion harvest. Discover the nuances of planting short-day and long-day onions, ensuring optimal growth and a bountiful yield. Let’s delve into the intricate details of onion farming, perfectly tailored for Kenyan conditions. Best Time Of Year To Plant Onions In Kenya: Decoding Nature’s Calendar Understanding Regional Variations: Planting onions in Kenya requires a nuanced understanding of regional and weather conditions. Generally, the optimal time falls during the dry season, spanning from October to December. This period boasts warm temperatures, ideal for germination and growth. The soil temperature complements seed development. Planting during the dry season minimizes risks associated with heavy rains, flooding, diseases, and pests. Planting Short-Day Onions: Storage Onion Strategies Short-day onions, aptly named “storage onions,” . Suited for regions with cooler temperatures, Kenyan farmers find the best planting window from October to December. This strategic timing allows for root establishment before the rainy season and ensures maturity before soaring temperatures set in. Planting Long-Day Onions:  Onion Symphony Spring Planting, Fall Bounty: Long-day onions.  Tailored for warmer regions, Kenyan farmers seize the ideal window from February to April. This timing allows for robust root systems before the dry season, ensuring mature onions before the onset of scorching temperatures. Navigating the Seasons for Optimal Onion Harvest in Kenya Expert Advice for Bountiful Harvest: Determining the best time to plant onions in Kenya hinges on region-specific factors and weather intricacies. Generally, the dry season from October to December proves to be the golden period, providing optimal temperatures for onion germination and growth. Local experts and extension agents play a crucial role in tailoring planting schedules to your region. With precision timing, a harvest of robust, high-quality onions is within reach. 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. Importance of onions in agriculture and the economy:  Nestled in the heart of Kenyan agriculture, onions stand tall as unsung heroes, contributing significantly to both the agricultural landscape and the nation’s economic tapestry. In this exploration, we delve into the multifaceted importance of onions, unraveling the layers of their impact on agriculture and the broader economy. The Agricultural Backbone: Onions are not merely pungent bulbs; they are the backbone of sustainable agriculture. One of their pivotal roles lies in crop rotation, a practice that promotes soil health and minimizes pest and disease prevalence. As onions naturally repel pests, they become invaluable allies to other crops, fostering a holistic and eco-friendly farming ecosystem. Enhancing Soil Fertility: Beyond their aromatic allure, onions work quietly beneath the soil, enhancing fertility. Their cultivation plays a vital role in maintaining a balanced nutrient profile, thereby reducing the need for excessive chemical fertilizers. The organic matter from onion residues enriches the soil, contributing to its long-term productivity. Economic Powerhouse: Onions wield economic prowess, providing a substantial source of income for farmers and contributing significantly to the national economy. The demand for onions creates lucrative opportunities for both smallholder and commercial farmers, driving economic diversification in the agricultural sector. This economic significance extends to employment generation, empowering local communities. High-Demand Crop: The incessant demand for onions ensures a constant market for farmers. The versatility of onions in various culinary applications, from salads to stews, makes them a kitchen staple. This high demand translates into a consistent income source for farmers, positioning onions as a resilient and profitable crop. Export Potential: Kenya’s onion production is not confined to local markets; it extends to the global stage. The quality of Kenyan onions makes them desirable in international markets, opening avenues for export. This global reach further amplifies the economic impact of onion farming, contributing to the country’s foreign exchange earnings. Onion Farming as a Livelihood: For many Kenyan farmers, onion cultivation is not just a means of income; it is a way of life. The cultivation of onions provides a reliable livelihood, supporting families and entire communities. Small-scale farmers find empowerment through onion farming, creating a ripple effect of economic stability. Conclusion: In the fields of Kenya, onions emerge as silent contributors, shaping the landscape of agriculture and bolstering economic resilience. Their importance transcends their culinary role, intertwining with the very fabric of the nation’s sustenance and prosperity. As we celebrate the unsung heroes of the soil, onions, let us recognize and appreciate their far-reaching impact on Kenyan agriculture and the broader economy.

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 diverse agricultural tapestry of Kenya, onions flourish in a myriad of varieties, each with its unique characteristics. As we embark on this exploration, let’s uncover the rich diversity of onion varieties that grace Kenyan soils, contributing to the nation’s culinary and economic richness. Local Varieties: Red Creole: Characteristics: A thick, flat-shaped medium-sized onion with a vibrant red hue. Matures after 150 days, thriving in low-altitude areas with ample sun and minimal rainfall. Shelf Life: Up to three months. Yield: 15  tons per acre. Texas Grano: Characteristics: Large, white, golden-scaled bulbs with excellent flavor. An open-pollinated variety maturing in 120 days. Shelf Life: Long shelf life. Yield: Dependent on optimal growing conditions. Bombay Red: Characteristics: Open-pollinated with green prostate leaves and small bulbs boasting a deep purple-red color. Matures in 120-150 days. Shelf Life: Dependent on storage conditions. Yield: Up to 16 tons per acre. Hybrid Varieties: Red Nice F1: Characteristics: Small, deep-red bulb hybrid with excellent curing and storage capabilities. Shelf Life: Extended storage period. Yield: Varied. Rasta F1: Characteristics: Adaptable to diverse climates, resistant to pests and diseases. Shelf Life: Extended storage period. Yield: Dependent on optimal growing conditions. Red Coach F1: Characteristics: Good flavor with low-fat content, rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Ideal for sliced vegetable salads. Shelf Life: Suitable for immediate consumption. Yield: Variable. Malbec F1: Characteristics: High yield with desirable size and color. Well-suited for the local market. Shelf Life: Suitable for extended storage. Yield: Varied. Red Passion F1: Characteristics: Medium-sized deep red bulb onion with a long shelf life of up to 5 months. Shelf Life: Up to 5 months. Yield: Variable. 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. In the heart of Kenya’s agricultural landscape, onion farming emerges not just as a cultivation practice but as a gateway to potential profitability. This blog delves into the market demand dynamics and the promising profitability that onion farming holds for Kenyan farmers. Market Demand for Onions in Kenya: Onions, a staple in Kenyan cuisine, play a vital role in enhancing the flavor of various dishes. The demand for onions is not only consistent but also steadily increasing due to the versatile use of this aromatic vegetable. From kitchen gardens to large-scale agricultural enterprises, the need for onions permeates every corner of the Kenyan market. Domestic Consumption: Onions are a fundamental ingredient in Kenyan households, forming the base for numerous culinary delights. From stews to salads, the demand for fresh, locally grown onions is ever-present. Hospitality and Culinary Industries: Hotels, restaurants, and catering services rely heavily on onions for their menu offerings. The consistent demand from these sectors ensures a year-round market for onion producers. Processed Onion Products: The food processing industry, including the production of spices, pickles, and condiments, is a growing market for onions. Entrepreneurs exploring value addition can tap into this segment for increased profitability. Factors Driving Market Demand: Population Growth: With a steadily growing population, the demand for food, including onions, continues to rise. Meeting this demand presents an opportunity for farmers to scale up production. Health and Nutrition Trends: Onions are not just a flavor enhancer; they also boast health benefits. The increasing awareness of these benefits, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, contributes to sustained market demand. Culinary Diversity: As Kenyan consumers embrace a diverse range of cuisines, onions, with their culinary versatility, remain a constant in various dishes. This diversity fuels the need for different onion varieties. Potential Profitability in Onion Farming: Yield per Acre: Under optimal conditions, an acre of land can yield between 16 tonnes of onions. This high yield potential translates to substantial profits for farmers. Market Prices: The market prices for onions, especially during periods of low supply, can be lucrative. Timing the harvest to coincide with market demand fluctuations can lead to higher selling prices. Value Addition Opportunities: Entrepreneurs can explore opportunities for value addition, such as onion processing or packaging, to tap into niche markets and command premium prices. Challenges and Mitigation Strategies: Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices may fluctuate seasonally due to variations in supply. Diversifying onion varieties and practicing staggered planting can help manage this challenge. Pests and Diseases: Implementing integrated pest management practices and investing in disease-resistant onion varieties can mitigate the impact of pests and diseases.

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 top onion varieties for maximum yield in Kenya, including the Jambar F1, Red Pinnoy F1, Bombay Red, Texas Grano 502, Red Passion F1, Early Texas Grano, Red Creole, and Red Grano. Learn about their characteristics, growing tips, and resistance to diseases. Onion Doctor supports farmers with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning, soil testing, irrigation, agronomic support, and more. Jambar F1 Onion Variety Jambar F1 stands out as one of Kenya’s most profitable onion varieties, renowned for its uniformity, high yield, and disease resistance. With a maturity period of approximately four months, this hybrid variety can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. Ideal for both small-scale and large-scale farming, Jambar F1 produces large, round bulbs with a sweet flavor and extended shelf life. For successful cultivation, prepare well-drained soil, space plants at least 10cm apart, and ensure proper irrigation and fertilization. 2. Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety The Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety captivates consumers with its deep red color, making it a favorite in the high-end market. This hybrid variety takes around four months to mature, offering a substantial yield of up to 30 tonnes per acre. Resistant to diseases like downy mildew and purple blotch, the Red Pinnoy F1 boasts uniform-sized, round bulbs. To cultivate this variety successfully, follow proper soil preparation, spacing, and irrigation practices, ensuring optimal growth and flavor. 3. Bombay Red Onion Variety Known for its long shelf life, the Bombay Red Onion Variety targets the export market. With a maturity period of approximately four months, it can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. This open-pollinated variety boasts large, round bulbs with a strong flavor, making it suitable for both local and international markets. While the Bombay Red Onion Variety requires careful disease management due to its susceptibility to downy mildew and purple blotch, its storage qualities make it a profitable choice for farmers. 4. Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety The Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety is prized for its high yield and disease resistance, making it an ideal choice for local markets. With a maturity period of approximately four months, this open-pollinated variety yields up to 30 tonnes per acre. Characterized by large, round bulbs with a sweet flavor, the Texas Grano 502 is suitable for extended storage. Farmers should focus on soil preparation, proper spacing, and irrigation to maximize yields and overcome challenges like downy mildew and purple blotch. 5. Red Passion F1 Onion Variety The Red Passion F1 Onion Variety is distinguished by its deep red color and high yield potential. Maturing in around four months, it can yield up to 35 tonnes per acre, targeting the high-end market. Resistant to common onion diseases, this variety produces large, round bulbs with a robust flavor. Enjoying excellent disease resistance, the Red Passion F1 Onion Variety reduces the need for chemical treatments, making it an efficient and profitable choice for farmers. 6. Early Texas Grano Onion Variety For farmers aiming to reach the local market early, the Early Texas Grano Onion Variety is an optimal choice. Maturing in approximately three months, this open-pollinated variety yields up to 25 tonnes per acre. With large, round bulbs boasting a sweet flavor, the Early Texas Grano is suitable for farmers seeking early harvests and reduced competition during peak seasons. Proper soil preparation, spacing, and irrigation are essential for maximizing yields and overcoming susceptibility to diseases. 7. Red Creole Onion Variety The Red Creole Onion Variety, known for its deep red color and disease resistance, targets the export market. With a maturity period of around four months, it can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. This hybrid onion variety offers mild-flavored bulbs, making it popular in dishes requiring a subtle onion taste. Its robust disease resistance reduces the need for chemical treatments, ensuring profitability for farmers. Focus on soil preparation, proper spacing, and irrigation for optimal growth. 8. Red Grano Onion Variety The Red Grano Onion Variety is celebrated for its deep red color, large size, and excellent storage quality. Maturing in approximately four months, it yields up to 30 tonnes per acre, making it ideal for the high-end market. With large, round bulbs boasting a mild flavor, the Red Grano is suitable for both local and international markets. Its impressive storage quality allows farmers to store bulbs for up to six months without compromising flavor. Adequate soil preparation, spacing, and irrigation are essential for optimal growth. Onion Doctor: Supporting Farmers for Maximum Profits Onion Doctor stands as a dedicated partner to smallholder farmers across Africa, providing quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil

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 profitability of onion farming in Kenya under irrigation with Onion Doctor’s expert guidance. Discover the advantages of onion drip irrigation, recommended drip kits, and the spacing needed for optimal onion plant growth. Enhance your onion cultivation experience with precise and balanced water delivery for large-scale production. The Profitability of Onion Farming in Kenya Onion farming in Kenya has become highly profitable, especially with the increasing cost of onion bulbs. The adoption of onion drip irrigation is a game-changer, ensuring a high output when managed effectively. Under drip irrigation, an acre of onions can yield an impressive 3–6 tonnes of onions, making it a lucrative venture for farmers. Why Onion Doctor Recommends Drip Irrigation for Onions Drip irrigation stands out as the preferred method for large-scale onion production, offering precision and balanced water delivery to plant lines. Utilizing beds with drip lines laid on 2–3 lines per bed enhances the growth conditions for onion bulbs, keeping the soil loose and less compact for robust root development. Advantages of Onion Drip Irrigation Farming Disease Control: Diseases are less likely to spread on onions grown under drip irrigation, reducing the reliance on insecticides and pesticides. This method minimizes the occurrence of fungal infections and leaf burns that can result from overhead irrigation. Controlled Water Flow: Drip irrigation allows precise control over the rate of water flow to onion farms. Unlike rainfall or furrow irrigation, this method ensures efficient water management, providing onions with the necessary water during planting while allowing the ground to dry before harvesting to prevent bulb damage. Low Labor Requirement: Drip irrigation systems require minimal labor for tasks such as opening and closing valves, maintenance, and checking water flow. This reduces labor costs, making onion farming more cost-effective. Onion Drip Kits: Components and Spacing Onion drip irrigation involves a range of components, from basic to complex drip irrigation kits. The components include HDPE mainline pipes, sub-main line pipes, drip lines, connectors, end caps, ball valves, filters, fertilizer tanks, water tanks, tap connectors, connector fittings, male and female adaptors, thread tape or glue seal, and elbow clamps or straight connectors. For optimal onion plant growth, the spacing of drip line emitter holes should be at least 15 cm. This spacing ensures minimal competition among onion plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers Onion Doctor stands as a reliable partner, 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 packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training. Maximize your yields and profits with Onion Doctor’s expertise in onion farming under irrigation.

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. Nursery Preparation for Onion Farming in Kenya When embarking on onion farming in Kenya, a well-established nursery is the first crucial step. Follow these steps for optimal results, and enhance your onion farming experience: 1. Raised Nursery Bed Setup: Create a raised nursery bed, ideally 1 meter wide and of desired length. Apply 15 kg of well-decomposed manure per square meter for nutrient enrichment. 2. Seed Sowing and DAP Application: Make shallow furrows, spaced 15cm apart, and mix onion seeds with sand for even distribution. Drill seeds into furrows, cover lightly with soil, and apply mulch. Mix 20g of DAP per square meter for enhanced root development. 3. Nutrient Boosting Solution: Mix 10g of loyalty, 100g of pyramid, and 20mls of optimizer with water. Apply this solution to the nursery to control early pests, diseases, and break seed dormancy. 4. Transplanting: After 6 weeks of germination, transplant seedlings with a pencil-size thickness and 15cm in length. Ensure the seedlings have 3-5 well-formed leaves for a robust start. Weed Control Strategies 1. Weed-Free Fields: Maintain an onion field free from weeds to prevent competition for nutrients and serve as alternate hosts for pests and diseases. 2. Chemical Weed Control: Opt for chemical control using a selective herbicide known as Commander, applied two weeks after transplanting. This herbicide kills existing weeds and suppresses further germination. Pest and Disease Management 1. Thrips Control: Thrips can harm onions by sucking sap, causing silvery-white leaves and affecting bulb formation. Apply Alternate Profile and Alonze at rates of 30mls and 5mls per 20 litres, respectively. 2. Leaf-Eating Caterpillar Management: Combat leaf-eating caterpillars with Alternate Escort and Profile, using rates of 30mls and 10mls per knapsack, respectively. 3. Disease Control: Address Downy Mildew by using Alternate Absolute with Fortress Gold, applying 10g and 50g per knapsack, respectively. Tackle Purple Blotch by spraying Tower/Fortress Gold at a rate of 50g per knapsack. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers Onion Doctor is your dedicated partner in onion farming success. We provide: Quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings Farm planning services Soil testing for optimal nutrient management Drip irrigation installation and maintenance Agronomic support for healthier crops Onion and Garlic value packs for enhanced productivity Comprehensive farm management assistance E-extension services and on-farm training Choose Onion Doctor for a thriving onion farming venture in Kenya. Optimize yields, maximize profits, and cultivate success with our expert support.

  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. Are you venturing into onion farming in Kenya? To ensure a thriving crop, here are essential tips and insights, backed by Onion Doctor’s expertise. Soil Preparation for Onion Farming Onions thrive in loamy, loose, and well-drained soil with a neutral pH. Ensure optimal soil conditions for robust bulb development. Follow these key steps: Soil Type: Choose loamy soil for ideal onion growth, avoiding compacted or heavy clay soils. Watering: Onions benefit from regular watering. The more water they receive, the sweeter the onions. Provide daily watering for optimal results. Fertilization: Onions are heavy feeders. Prepare the bed by mixing compost into the soil. Add nitrogen-rich fertilizer at planting and regularly throughout the season. Practice annual crop rotation. Starting from Seed: Boosting Germination For successful onion farming, starting from seed is a crucial step. Maximize seed germination with these strategies: Warmth is Key: Start onion seeds indoors and maintain warm soil conditions. Seeds germinate faster at 20°C. Fresh Seeds: Use fresh onion seeds, as they have a limited lifespan. Sow seeds about one inch deep and half an inch apart. Moisture Management: Keep the soil moist, misting as needed. Cover with a plastic bag to retain heat. Sprouts may appear in as little as four days. Planting Onion Sets: Simplifying the Process Onion sets offer an easier start but limit cultivar choices. Follow these steps for planting onion sets: Soil Enrichment: Work compost or manure into the soil and add alfalfa pellets for nitrogen boost. Planting Depth: Plant sets no more than one inch deep, spacing them two to six inches apart in rows. Moisture Retention: Onions need consistent moisture. Add a layer of straw between rows to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Harvesting and Storage: Ensuring Longevity Harvesting and storing onions properly are vital for prolonged freshness. Follow these guidelines: Harvest Timing: After 100-120 days, harvest when the green tops fall over, and a flower stalk emerges. Immediate Use: If using immediately, gently pull up the onion. Fresh onions should be consumed within days. Storage Techniques: For longer storage, leave the onion in the ground, pulling back soil around the bulb for exposure. After tops dry, pull out the onions. Storage Conditions: Choose a sheltered, well-ventilated spot for storage. Handle onions carefully to avoid bruising and rot. Onion Doctor’s Support: Your Farming Ally Onion Doctor is committed to supporting smallholder farmers across Africa. We offer: Quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings Farm planning services Soil testing for optimal nutrient management Drip irrigation installation and maintenance Agronomic support for healthier crops Onion and Garlic value packs for enhanced productivity Comprehensive farm management assistance E-extension services and on-farm training Choose Onion Doctor for successful onion farming in Kenya. Optimize yields, maximize profits, and cultivate success with our expert support.

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 diverse agricultural tapestry of Kenya, onions flourish in a myriad of varieties, each with its unique characteristics. As we embark on this exploration, let’s uncover the rich diversity of onion varieties that grace Kenyan soils, contributing to the nation’s culinary and economic richness. Local Varieties: Red Creole: Characteristics: A thick, flat-shaped medium-sized onion with a vibrant red hue. Matures after 150 days, thriving in low-altitude areas with ample sun and minimal rainfall. Shelf Life: Up to three months. Yield: 15  tons per acre. Texas Grano: Characteristics: Large, white, golden-scaled bulbs with excellent flavor. An open-pollinated variety maturing in 120 days. Shelf Life: Long shelf life. Yield: Dependent on optimal growing conditions. Bombay Red: Characteristics: Open-pollinated with green prostate leaves and small bulbs boasting a deep purple-red color. Matures in 120-150 days. Shelf Life: Dependent on storage conditions. Yield: Up to 16 tons per acre. Hybrid Varieties: Red Nice F1: Characteristics: Small, deep-red bulb hybrid with excellent curing and storage capabilities. Shelf Life: Extended storage period. Yield: Varied. Rasta F1: Characteristics: Adaptable to diverse climates, resistant to pests and diseases. Shelf Life: Extended storage period. Yield: Dependent on optimal growing conditions. Red Coach F1: Characteristics: Good flavor with low-fat content, rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Ideal for sliced vegetable salads. Shelf Life: Suitable for immediate consumption. Yield: Variable. Malbec F1: Characteristics: High yield with desirable size and color. Well-suited for the local market. Shelf Life: Suitable for extended storage. Yield: Varied. Red Passion F1: Characteristics: Medium-sized deep red bulb onion with a long shelf life of up to 5 months. Shelf Life: Up to 5 months. Yield: Variable. 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.