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. 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. 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

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 profitable onion farming in Kenya, where the potential for success is vast. Whether on a large commercial scale or a small local endeavor, the right knowledge and practices can unlock substantial yields. This guide, enriched by Onion Doctor’s expertise, details the essential steps from planting to harvesting, ensuring a fruitful onion cultivation venture. Factors Influencing Onion Yield: Understand the critical factors that influence onion yield, from climatic conditions and soil type to the onion variety chosen. Explore the optimal conditions for onions, including well-drained sandy loam soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0, and a temperate climate between 13°C and 24°C. Learn the importance of strategic planting seasons to maximize onion production. Onion Varieties in Kenya: Local and Hybrid: Navigate through the diverse onion varieties in Kenya, classified into local and hybrid types. Explore the characteristics of local varieties like Red Creole, Texas Grano, and Bombay Red. Dive into the versatility of hybrid varieties such as Red Nice F1, Rasta F1, and Jambari F1, known for adaptability and resistance to pests and diseases. Onions Nursery Bed Preparation: Master the art of preparing the perfect nursery bed for your onions. From creating raised seedbeds to incorporating organic fertilizer and ensuring adequate moisture, this section provides step-by-step guidance. Learn the amount of seeds needed for efficient germination and gain insights into the ideal seedbed maintenance routine. Field Preparation and Transplanting: Navigate through the crucial steps of field preparation for onion farming, incorporating ripe animal manure and preparing furrows. Understand the nuances of transplanting onion seedlings, including root and leaf pruning techniques. Explore the benefits of morning or evening transplanting to mitigate the impact of intense sunlight. Onion Plantation Maintenance: Delve into the ongoing care required for a successful onion plantation. From regular irrigation and foliar sprays for pest control to top dressing with Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN), this section provides a comprehensive guide to maintaining a healthy onion crop. Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling: Learn the art of harvesting onions at the right time, balancing factors like variety and climatic conditions. Understand the significance of proper pruning and post-harvest handling techniques. Explore the optimal drying and storage practices to ensure the longevity of your onion produce.

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 lucrative world of onion farming in Kenya, a venture with substantial potential for high yields and returns. Kenyan farmers keen on maximizing profits from onion cultivation need to navigate factors like market identification, labor planning, and post-harvest procedures. This guide, enriched by Onion Doctor’s expertise, unravels the key aspects of profitable onion farming. Factors Influencing Onion Farming Profitability: Delve into the critical factors that can make onion farming a profitable venture. From market identification and labor planning to efficient post-harvest handling, understand how strategic decisions at each stage impact the overall success of your onion farm. Choosing the Right Onion Variety: The choice of onion variety plays a pivotal role in determining success. Explore the characteristics of bulb onions and spring onions, each offering unique advantages. Understand why bulb onions, with their 3 to 4 months maturity, extended shelf life, and sweet taste, stand out. Learn about the simplicity of planting spring onions, suitable even for kitchen gardens. Onion Varieties in Kenya: Local and Hybrid: Navigate through the diverse onion varieties in Kenya, categorized into local and hybrid types. Uncover details about popular local varieties like Red Creole, Texas Grano, and Bombay Red, each with unique characteristics. Explore the versatility of hybrid varieties such as Jambari F1, Neptune F1, and Red Coach F1, known for their adaptability and resistance to pests and diseases. Onion Doctor’s Role in Agricultural Success: Discover how Onion Doctor is empowering 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 comprehensive farm management, Onion Doctor ensures farmers optimize yields and maximize profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Explore the art of onion farming, whether on a commercial or small scale, with this in-depth guide tailored for success in Kenya. Learn valuable insights to enhance your onion yields, reaching up to 25 tonnes per acre under meticulous management. Uncover the key role played by Onion Doctor in supporting smallholder farmers across Africa. Choosing the Right Soil and Planting Technique: Achieving optimal onion yields starts with selecting the right soil. Well-drained sandy or loam soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0 sets the stage for success. Plant onion seeds in raised beds before transplanting to ensure proper growth. Learn the significance of mulching in conserving moisture and providing the ideal conditions for seedling development. Location and Planting Practices: Selecting a location with full sun ensures your onions receive maximum energy from sunlight, promoting the growth of larger bulbs. Early preparation of the planting site, coupled with the addition of animal manure, contributes to enhanced soil fertility. Gain insights into the transplanting process, ensuring minimal root injury and optimal spacing for mature onions. Fertilization Strategies for Success: Unlock the secrets of successful onion fertilization. Understand the impact of phosphorus banding below the seed during planting and the importance of additional fertilizer application as a side-dress every month. Discover the role of steady water supply for onions, given their shallow roots, and learn effective mulching techniques to support bulb growth. Pest Management in Onion Farming: Navigate the challenges of common pests in onions, including thrips, aphids, and onion root maggots. Learn to identify signs of infestation and seek advice from extension workers for effective pest management. Stay vigilant throughout the growing season to ensure the health and vitality of your onion crop. Harvesting Techniques for Different Purposes: Discover the flexibility of onion harvesting based on your goals. Whether harvesting young onions as “spring onions” within weeks or waiting for full-sized bulbs to mature, understand the key indicators for optimal harvesting. Learn the proper curing techniques for harvested onions, ensuring longevity and quality. Onion Doctor’s Support for Agricultural Success: Experience the comprehensive support provided by Onion Doctor, empowering smallholder farmers with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, value packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training. Unleash the full potential of your onion farm with Onion Doctor’s expertise.

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 secrets to successful red onion farming in Kenya, unraveling the process from seed to harvest. This comprehensive guide not only demystifies the art of growing red onions but also introduces the invaluable support of Onion Doctor, empowering smallholder farmers for optimal yields and profitability. Planting Time and Soil Preparation: Red onions, a culinary staple in Kenya, thrive when planted during the short rains from October to December. The ideal harvesting window opens in January to February when the weather turns hot, maximizing profits. The three to five-month growth period from seed to maturity depends on onion varieties. Seed planting on well-drained, fertile soil sets the stage for a successful harvest. Growing Red Onions in Kenya: Red onions flourish in well-drained, fertile sandy loam soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The optimal temperature of 13 to 24 degrees Celsius during germination is crucial for seed development. The step-by-step process includes land preparation, nursery seed planting, and meticulous transplanting. Red Creole onion seeds germinate in 7 to 10 days, leading to transplanting and subsequent growth in carefully prepared soil. Best Time to Grow Red Creole Onions: In Kenya, the prime time for cultivating Red Creole onions, known for their vibrant color and flavor, is during hot months like January. Raised bed planting in a well-prepared nursery precedes the transplanting process. With careful attention to soil conditions and timely application of fertilizers, Red Creole onions are ready for harvest in approximately three months. Onion Varieties in Kenya: Kenya boasts a variety of onions, with bulb and spring onions leading the way for their ease of cultivation. Seven hybrid varieties dominate the Kenyan market, each with unique features and resistances. From the Jambari F1 with its high yield to the Red Star F1 thriving in adverse conditions, farmers can choose varieties suited to their specific needs. Onion Fertilization for Maximum Yields: As onions thrive on a high nitrogen source, selecting the right fertilizer is crucial. Nitrogen-based fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate prove effective, enhancing leaf size and promoting bulb scale growth. Proper fertilization contributes to larger, heavier bulbs, ultimately increasing overall yields. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers: Enter the realm of onion farming success with Onion Doctor’s comprehensive support. From quality and affordable seedlings to farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation, agronomic guidance, and e-extension services, Onion Doctor empowers smallholder farmers to optimize yields and achieve maximum profits. Share on Facebook

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 farming in Kenya, where strategic planting, optimal varieties, and expert guidance from Onion Doctor converge to maximize profits. This comprehensive guide unveils the ideal planting time, onion varieties breakdown, and crucial conditions for a thriving onion farm. Ideal Planting Time for Onions: Onions, especially bulb onions, have their prime planting time during Kenya’s short rains, which span from October to December. The subsequent harvest in January and February aligns with hot weather, creating a favorable environment for onion harvesting. This strategic timing capitalizes on Tanzania’s low onion supply, elevating local farmers’ profits. Additionally, post-March rains mark another opportune period for increased onion prices, offering farmers another window for lucrative harvests. Bulb Onion Yield Per Acre: Understanding onion varieties is crucial for maximizing yields. The Texas Early Grano, well-adapted to tropical climates, matures in 120 days and yields up to 21 tonnes per acre. Bombay Red Onion, with a 150-day maturity, can produce up to 16 tonnes per acre. Red Pinoy, maturing in 90 days, boasts a potential yield of 30 tonnes per acre with extended storage capabilities. Red Creole, a Kenyan staple, matures in 150 days and yields up to 16 tonnes per acre. Conditions for Successful Onion Farming: Optimal onion growth hinges on specific conditions. A temperature range of 15-30 degrees Celsius is ideal, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees leading to premature maturity. Altitudes below 1900m ensure optimum cultivation conditions. Well-drained soils, including fine-tilth sandy to silty loams, promote healthy onion growth. Adequate rainfall of 500 to 700mm during growth is crucial, with drier weather favorable during maturity and curing. Maintaining a pH level of 6.0-6.8 ensures effective macronutrient absorption. Onion Doctor’s Support for Smallholder Farmers: Enter the realm of success with Onion Doctor’s expert support. Offering quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic guidance, value packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor empowers smallholder farmers to optimize yields and achieve maximum profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Explore the dynamic world of onion farming in Kenya, where the versatile bulb and spring onions thrive in selected regions. This article unveils the ideal conditions, challenges, and expert support from Onion Doctor that collectively contribute to the success of smallholder farmers across Africa. Types and Regions for Onion Farming in Kenya: Kenya boasts the cultivation of bulb and spring onions, with prime regions like Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu. The strategic timing of onion harvests during low supply periods from Tanzania offers local farmers opportunities for increased profits. Conditions for Onion Farming: Onions flourish in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.8. The adaptability to a wide temperature range (13 to 35 degrees Celsius) facilitates year-round cultivation, further enhanced by greenhouses and drip irrigation, especially in hotter regions like Ukambani and the Coast. Noteworthy varieties include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 reigning supreme for its high yield and market suitability. Challenges Facing Onion Farming in Kenya: Onion farming encounters challenges such as excessive rainfall, diseases (Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, etc.), pests (maggots, thrips, nematodes), and weed proliferation. Proactive measures, including raised beds, drip irrigation, disease-resistant seed varieties, and targeted pesticide application, address these challenges effectively. Harvesting Onions: Strategic harvesting is essential for optimal onion yields. Bulb onions are ready when a shiny membrane envelops the bulbs or foliage withers, while spring onions are ideal at a height of 15 cm and a thickness of 1.5 cm. Gentle pulling and careful leaf removal precede the crucial drying phase under the sun before storage. Onion Doctor’s Support for Smallholder Farmers: The cornerstone of success in onion farming lies in Onion Doctor’s comprehensive support. From quality seedlings and soil testing to drip irrigation installation, agronomic guidance, and e-extension services, Onion Doctor empowers smallholder farmers, ensuring they optimize yields and achieve maximum profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Explore the thriving landscape of onion farming in Kenya, a lucrative venture propelled by the country’s diverse agro-climatic conditions. This article delves into the profitability of onion cultivation, geographical areas suitable for its growth, and the invaluable support provided by Onion Doctor to smallholder farmers across Africa. Geographical Areas for Onion Farming in Kenya: Onion farming finds fertile ground in various regions of Kenya, including Nakuru, Kajiado, Kiambu, Narok, and Meru. These areas boast ideal conditions for cultivating onions, a versatile ingredient utilized in diverse cuisines, whether fresh, dried, or powdered. Preparation of Land for Onion Farming: Success in onion farming hinges on well-prepared land featuring excellent drainage and reliable irrigation. Thriving in well-drained loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, onions are best planted during the rainy seasons from February to April and August to October. Whether on a large or small scale, onion farming in Kenya takes four to five months to reach maturity. Profitability of Onion Farming in Kenya: The profitability of onion farming in Kenya stems from the robust demand for this culinary staple. Enjoying high demand in both local and export markets, onions offer a relatively short maturity period, allowing farmers to harvest and sell quickly. With low production costs and minimal labor requirements, onion farming is an attractive choice for small-scale farmers, bolstering its profitability. Ease of Onion Farming in Kenya: Emphasizing simplicity, onion farming in Kenya stands out as an accessible choice. Resilient against pest and disease attacks, onions require minimal supervision, making them an ideal crop for farmers lacking extensive technical expertise. The straightforward cultivation process further contributes to the widespread adoption of onion farming. Long Shelf Life of Onion Crop: Adding to its allure, onion farming proves profitable with the crop’s extended shelf life. The ability to store onions for a prolonged period mitigates the risk of spoilage, a critical advantage for farmers navigating fluctuating market conditions and seeking optimal selling opportunities. Onion Doctor’s Support for Smallholder Farmers: Central to the success of onion farming in Africa, Onion Doctor provides crucial support to smallholder farmers. From quality seedlings and farm planning to soil testing, drip irrigation installation, agronomic support, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor ensures farmers optimize yields and maximize profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Delve into the intricacies of onion farming in Kenya with Onion Doctor, your trusted partner for success in agriculture. This comprehensive guide covers everything from ideal farming locations to varieties, conditions, challenges, and harvesting techniques. Embrace keywords like “onion farming in Kenya” and “Onion Doctor” to unlock the wealth of knowledge. Major types of onions farmed in Kenya are bulb onions and spring onions. The best areas suited for farming being Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali and Mai Mahiu. Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Short rains are great for bulb onions since they can be harvested between January and February. Local farmers are able to benefit during this time period, since there is low supply of onions from Tanzania at this time of the year. 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. 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. 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 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 miner. Use pesticides from accredited brands to get rid of the pests. Weeds: Weeds can also destroy your crop and should be removed occasionally either physically or through the use of herbicides. In one season, there should be at least 2 – 3 weeding sessions. 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.