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. Spring onions are easy to plant and can be grown even in kitchen gardens. They are commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Some health benefits of spring onions include lowering blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of the two types, bulb onions are more popular due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Currently, there are two varieties of bulb onions in the market: the small, thin, and firmly layered onion from Tanzania with a strong pungent smell, and the big, loosely held variety grown locally in Kenya. The best areas suited for farming include Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu. Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Conditions for Onion Farming Onions perform well in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils with an ideal pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthy venture since it’s possible to grow onions throughout the year via irrigation. Soil testing with accredited laboratories is advised. Optimal temperatures for onion growth are between 13 to 35 degrees Celsius, allowing cultivation in most parts of Kenya. However, to maximize production in areas such as Ukambani and parts of the Coastal region, investment in greenhouses and drip irrigation is necessary. Greenhouses optimize temperatures, and irrigation provides the much-needed water. Onions are a cool-season crop, and most areas in Ukambani and the Coastal region are extremely dry. Essential requirements include land, DAP fertilizer, and seedlings. One kilogram of seedlings can be used per acre, while 20 grams of DAP fertilizer is applied per square meter. Different seed varieties perform differently under various conditions. Common hybrid varieties available in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 being the most popular due to its high yield and the size and color of its onions, which are ideal for the Kenyan markets. Challenges Facing Onion Farming in Kenya Excessive Rainfall or Watering: Heavy rainfall or excessive watering can lead to waterlogging. Focus on cultivating during short rains or raising beds to ensure proper drainage. Drip irrigation is recommended to prevent fungal diseases associated with overhead watering. Diseases: Common diseases affecting onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use effective fungicides to combat these diseases. Pests: Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes, and leaf miners. Employ quality pesticides to manage pest infestations. Weeds: Weed control is crucial in onion farming. Weeds are a big challenge and should be managed effectively. Harvesting Onions The best time to harvest onions is during the dry season. Keep a calendar and record essential dates to ensure timely harvesting. Bulb onions are ready for harvest once they form a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or when the foliage withers. Spring onions are ready for harvesting when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Harvest by pulling the bulbs and chopping off the leaves. Dry the bulbs in the sun before storing the produce. Support from Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension, and on-farm training for farmers to optimize yields and maximize profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Onions thrive in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Throughout the year, onion cultivation is viable through irrigation, although soil testing by accredited laboratories is recommended. Optimal temperatures for onion growth range from 13 to 35 degrees Celsius, allowing cultivation in most parts of Kenya. However, to enhance production in hotter regions like Ukambani and certain coastal areas, investing in greenhouses and drip irrigation is advisable to regulate temperatures and provide necessary water. Despite being a cool-season crop, Ukambani and coastal areas experience extreme dryness. Essential requirements include land, DAP fertilizer, and seedlings. One kilogram of seedlings per acre and 20 grams of DAP fertilizer per square meter are recommended. Different seed varieties perform differently under varying conditions. Popular hybrid varieties in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1, with Red Coach F1 being favoured for its high yield and ideal size and colour for local markets. Challenges in Onion Farming: Excessive Rainfall or Watering: Heavy rainfall or excessive watering can lead to waterlogging. Focus on cultivating during the short rains or raising beds to ensure proper drainage. Drip irrigation is recommended to prevent fungal diseases associated with overhead watering. Diseases: Common onion diseases include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Utilize effective fungicides to combat these diseases. Pests: Maggots, thrips, nematodes, and leaf miners are common onion pests. Employ quality pesticides to manage pest infestations. Weeds: Weed control is crucial in onion farming. Use Commander 240EC herbicide to eradicate weeds (both grass and broadleaves) 10-14 days after transplanting until harvest. Harvesting Onions: Harvest during the dry season when bulbs form a shiny membranous cover or when foliage withers. Bulb onions are ready for harvest at this stage. Spring onions are ready when they reach 15 centimetres in height and 1.5 centimetres in thickness. Harvest by pulling bulbs and cutting off leaves. Sun-dry bulbs before storage. Keeping a calendar to record essential dates ensures timely harvesting. Support from Onion Doctor: Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension, and on-farm training for farmers to optimize yields and maximize profits. For more information and support, contact Onion Doctor today!

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. An Expert Guide to Onion Farming in Kenya by Onion Doctor There are two main types of onions grown in Kenya: bulb onions and spring onions. The best-suited areas to grow onions include Nyeri, Nakuru, Narok, Maimahiu, Kieni, and Nyandarua. Bulb Onions: Maturity: Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Harvest Time: Short rains are ideal for bulb onions as they can be harvested between January and February. During this period, local farmers benefit due to the low supply of onions from Tanzania. After the long rains of March, the prices of these onions increase, providing farmers who harvest after this period with good profit margins. Spring Onions: Ease of Planting: Spring onions are easy to plant and can even be grown in a kitchen garden. Uses: Commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Health Benefits: Include lowering blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Varieties of Bulb Onions: Imported Variety: Small, thin, and firmly layered onions with a strong pungent smell from Tanzania. Local Variety: Big, loosely held onions grown locally in Kenya. Challenges Facing Onion Farming in Kenya: Rains or Excess Watering: Impact: Too much rain or excess watering can waterlog the crop. Solution: Focus on growing during the short rains, raise beds for better drainage, and avoid excessive watering. Drip irrigation is the best method for onions, while overhead irrigation should be avoided as it causes fungal diseases. Diseases: Common diseases include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Control: Use herbicides to manage these diseases. Pests: Common pests include maggots, thrips, nematodes, and the leaf miner. Control: Use pesticides from accredited brands. Weeds: Impact: Weeds compete for nutrients, light, and space and can harbor pests and diseases. Control: Remove weeds physically or use herbicides. Conduct 2-3 weeding sessions per season. Conditions for Onion Farming: Soil: Well-drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Climate: Ideal temperatures range between 13 – 35 degrees centigrade, making most parts of Kenya suitable. In hotter regions like Ukambani and some coastal areas, investing in a greenhouse and drip irrigation is necessary. Planting Onions from Seeds: Nursery Bed Preparation: Make a raised nursery bed 1m wide and of any desired length. Apply well-decomposed manure at 15kg per square meter and mix with DAP fertilizer at 20 grams per square meter. Make shallow furrows 15cm apart, mix the seeds with dry ash, sand, or soil at a ratio of 1:3, plant the seeds, cover lightly with soil, and apply mulch. After planting, irrigate liberally for the first 10 days and continue watering regularly. Transplanting: Transplant seedlings 6 weeks after planting when they have a pencil-thick base, a height of approximately 15cm, and 3-5 well-formed leaves. Two weeks before transplanting, reduce shade to improve seedling survival in the field. Harvesting Onions: Timing: The best time for harvesting is during the dry season. Record essential dates to ensure timely harvesting. Bulb Onions: Ready for harvesting once they form a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or when the foliage withers. Spring Onions: Ready for harvesting when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Process: Harvest by pulling the bulbs, chopping off the leaves, and drying the bulbs in the sun before storing. Onion Doctor: Supporting smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training to optimize yields and achieve maximum profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Planting Onions Onion Seedlings: Onion seedlings are first established in a nursery. Preparation of the nursery is done as follows: Make a raised nursery bed 1 meter wide and any desired length. Apply well-decomposed manure at a rate of 15 kg per square meter. Mix DAP at a rate of 20g per square meter. Make shallow furrows 15cm apart and mix the seeds with sand to help spread the seeds. Drill the seeds and cover lightly with soil, then apply mulch. After drilling the seeds, mix 10g of Loyalty, 100g of Pyramid, and 20mls of Optimizer with water, and apply the solution in the nursery. This mixture helps control early pests and diseases and also breaks the seed dormancy. Transplanting: Transplanting is done 6 weeks after germination. Transplant the seedlings when they have a pencil-size thickness and are 15cm in length. The seedlings should also have 3-5 well-formed leaves. Weed Control: Keep the onion field free from weeds as they act as alternate hosts for pests and diseases and compete for nutrients. Chemical control of weeds is the most ideal method in an onion field. This is done by applying a selective herbicide known as Commander two weeks after transplanting. Once sprayed, the herbicide will kill all the weeds that have already germinated and also suppress further germination of weeds. Pests and Diseases Management Thrips: Thrips suck sap from the onion crop. Attacked leaves turn silvery white and affect bulb formation. Control: Alternate Profile and Alonze at the rate of 30mls/20 liters and 5mls/20 liters respectively. Leaf-Eating Caterpillar: Control: Alternate Escort and Profile at the rate of 30mls and 10mls per knapsack respectively. Diseases: 1) Downy Mildew: Affected leaves turn yellow and die from the tip downwards. Control: Alternate Absolute with Fortress Gold at the rate of 10g and 50g per knapsack respectively. 2) Purple Blotch: Characterized by water-soaked lesions on the leaves that quickly develop with white centers. Control: Spray Tower/Fortress Gold at the rate of 50g per knapsack. Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training for farmers to optimize yields and achieve maximum profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Onion Farming in Kenya: Types and Ideal Locations The major types of onions farmed in Kenya are bulb onions and spring onions. The best areas suited for farming include Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu. Bulb onions take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Short rains are great for bulb onions since they can be harvested between January and February. Local farmers benefit during this time as there is low supply of onions from Tanzania. After the long rains of March, the price of these onions hikes, and farmers who harvest after this period make good profit margins. Spring onions are easy to plant and can even be grown in your kitchen garden. They are commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Health benefits of spring onions include lowering blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of the two types, bulb onions are more popular due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Currently, there are two different varieties of bulb onions in the market: the small, thin, firmly layered onion with a strong pungent smell from Tanzania and the big, loosely held variety grown locally in Kenya. Conditions for Onion Farming Onions perform well in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils with an ideal pH of 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthy venture as it’s possible to grow onions throughout the year via irrigation. Soil testing with accredited laboratories is advised. Ideal temperatures for onions are between 13 – 35 degrees centigrade, allowing them to grow in most parts of Kenya. To maximize production in hot areas such as Ukambani and the Coastal region, one needs to invest in a greenhouse and drip irrigation. Greenhouses optimize temperatures, and irrigation provides the much-needed water. Onions are a cool-season crop. In terms of requirements, apart from land, other essentials include DAP fertilizer and seedlings. 1 kg of seedlings can be used per acre, while 20 grams of DAP fertilizer is applied per square meter. Different seed varieties perform differently under various conditions. Common hybrid varieties in Kenya include Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1. The most popular seed variety is Red Coach F1 due to its high yield and ideal size and color for the Kenyan markets. Onion Doctor provides quality seedlings, soil testing, and farm planning services to help optimize your farming conditions. Challenges in Onion Farming in Kenya Rains or Excess Watering: Too much rain or excess watering can waterlog the crop. If the rain in your area is too much, focus on growing the crop during the short rains. Raise the beds to ensure water flows out of the field. Avoid excessive watering of your onions. The best type of irrigation is drip irrigation. Overhead irrigation should be avoided as it causes fungal diseases. Diseases: Common diseases affecting onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use the best fungicides to manage these diseases. Onion Doctor offers agronomic support to help manage and prevent diseases effectively. Pests: Common pests attacking onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes, and the leaf miner. Use pesticides from accredited brands to manage these pests. Onion Doctor provides pest control solutions to protect your crops. Weeds: Weeds are a significant challenge in onion farms. Use Commander 240EC 10-14 days after transplanting your onions to eliminate weeds (grass and broadleaves) until harvesting. Regular weeding ensures your onions get the nutrients and space they need to grow. Harvesting Onions The best time to harvest is during the dry season. Keep a calendar and record essential dates to ensure timely harvesting. Bulb onions are ready for harvesting once they form a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs or when the foliage withers. Spring onions are ready when they are 15 centimeters tall and 1.5 centimeters thick. Harvest by pulling the bulbs and then chopping off the leaves. Dry the bulbs in the sun before storing them. Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, value packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training. These services help farmers optimize yields and achieve maximum profits.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Onion Farming in Kenya: Types and Varieties There are two main types of onions grown in Kenya: bulb onions and spring onions. Of the two, bulb onions are more popular due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Prices of onions fluctuate depending on the season and variety planted. The price fluctuation is mainly attributed to the importation of onions from Tanzania, where the cost of production is lower. Timing is therefore key if a farmer wishes to reap from their produce. The best time to plant is between November and May, as onions fetch high prices due to low supply from Tanzania. The best areas suited for growing onions in Kenya are Kajiado, Narok, Kieni, Karatina, Oloitoktok, Kakamega, and Naivasha, among others. Onions do well in well-drained fertile soils rich in humus with a pH ranging from 5.8-6.5. The common varieties grown in Kenya include Jambar F1, Islero, Red Creole, Red Passion, and Red Pinnoy. All varieties in Kenya prefer warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 15-30 degrees Celsius. An acre requires 1-1.5kg of onion seeds depending on the variety and the spacing. The spacing normally affects the size of the bulb onions. Onion Farming in Kenya: Seedling Establishment Onions can be grown by direct seeding, which requires intensive management, or by first establishing a nursery bed. Just like other vegetables planted in a nursery bed, site selection is key to proper planning for the production of healthy and vigorous growing seedlings. The site should be in a secure environment, near a water source, and preferably near the crop production site. It should be raised to a height of about 15cm to encourage drainage, 1m width for easy workability, and the length of your own desire depending on the number of seeds to be sowed. Shallow drills are made 2cm deep and 15cm apart after leveling, and seeds are sowed singly. This is achieved by mixing sand and onion seeds in a ratio of 3:1. Cover the nursery bed using agro-nets or dry grass free of weeds, pests, and diseases. Immediately after sowing, watering should be done twice per week depending on the moisture level. In most cases, the seeds sprout after seven days. The crop in the nursery should be established for 4-6 weeks and transplanted when pencil-sized in thickness, 10 to 15cm tall, and have 3-5 true leaves. Onion Doctor provides high-quality onion seedlings and advice on seedling establishment to ensure optimal growth. Onion Farming in Kenya: Transplanting It’s always wise to do a soil test before planting to know the status of nutrients in the soil, which will guide you on nutrient application for onion production. A serious farmer should prepare the land to a fine tilth and add well-decomposed manure. Depending on the soil test, one can consider using DAP during planting and top-dress using CAN at week four. Frequent scouting for crop nutrition is paramount, and mitigation measures should be taken immediately. To prevent transplanting shock, do the exercise early in the morning, late in the evening, or when the weather is cloudy. It’s ideal to trim the shoot and root (3 inches for shoots and 0.5 inch for roots) before seedling placement to minimize moisture loss and seedling shock during and after transplanting. The ideal spacing is 8-10cm between the seedlings and 15cm for inter-row distance to allow better bulb development. Spacing is also determined by the variety planted and soil fertility. Onion Doctor offers soil testing and transplanting guidance to help farmers optimize their yields. Onion Farming in Kenya: Watering and Irrigation Too much rain or excessive watering can waterlog the crop. If the rain in your area is too much, focus on growing the crop during the short rains. You can also raise the beds to ensure the water flows out of the field. Avoid excessive watering of your onions. The best type of irrigation for onions is drip irrigation. Overhead irrigation should be avoided as it causes fungal diseases. Onion Doctor provides drip irrigation installation and maintenance services to help manage your watering needs efficiently. Onion Farming in Kenya: Pest and Disease Control Common diseases that affect onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use herbicides to get rid of the diseases. Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, onion flies, red spider mites, nematodes, and the leaf miner. Use pesticides from accredited brands to get rid of the pests. Frequent scouting for pests and diseases is important for early detection, prevention, and control. Onion Doctor offers agronomic support and pest control solutions to ensure healthy crops. Onion Farming in Kenya: Weeding The land should be free of weeds, which compete for nutrients, light, and space and harbor pests and diseases. Weeds should be removed occasionally either physically or through the use of herbicides. In one season, there should be at least 2-3 weeding sessions. Onion Farming in Kenya: Harvesting Once transplanting is done, one should prepare to harvest after 4-5 months depending on the variety. Top leaves will yellow and begin to fall over, an indication they are ready for harvesting, which should coincide with dry and hot weather. Curing of the onions is done by uprooting every single stem and leaving it to dry, after which leaves and roots are cut off with a sharp knife. A good harvest offers 20-25 tonnes per acre depending on the variety. Onion Doctor provides farm management services and harvesting tips to maximize your yield. About Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance,

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Onion Farming in Kenya: Preparation and Fertilizing Onions require full sun, good soil drainage, and soil rich in nitrogen. Choose a location that gets plenty of direct sun and where your onion plants will not be shaded by other crops. Onions grow best on raised beds or raised rows at least 4 inches high and 20 inches wide. Pull and remove all visible weeds. The soil should be loose and crumbly. If it’s compacted, work in compost to improve aeration and drainage. Onions are heavy feeders and require consistent feeding to produce big, solid bulbs. At planting time, prepare the soil first with compost and also work in a good source of granular, high nitrogen fertilizer. As plants grow and begin to bulb up, plan to supplement feed every few weeks with a high nitrogen liquid fertilizer such as fish emulsion. Be sure to apply all fertilizers according to suggested rates or quantities. For expert guidance and quality fertilizers, consider consulting Onion Doctor. Onion Farming in Kenya: Planting Rows should be made 12-18 inches apart. If you want the onions to grow to mature bulbs, plant them 4-6 inches apart and 1 inch deep (and no deeper, as this will inhibit their ability to bulb). If you prefer to harvest some earlier as green onions, space them 2 inches apart and pull every other onion during the growing season, leaving the rest to grow to maturity. When the ground starts to crack as the onions push the soil away, the bulbing process has begun. Stop fertilizing at this point. Do not heap soil up around the bulbing onions; it’s normal and beneficial for much of the onion bulb to be above the ground as they mature. Onion Doctor offers high-quality onion seedlings and planting advice to ensure optimal growth. Onion Farming in Kenya: Watering Water thoroughly after planting and regularly thereafter – onions require about 1 inch of water per week. The closer to harvest, the greater the need for regular watering. They have shallow roots, so don’t let the soil at the base of the plants become dry and cracked. If an onion plant fails to receive enough water, it will not make a large bulb. Overwatering is equally problematic – if leaves develop a yellow tinge, cut back on watering. Drip irrigation is a good way to stay on top of onions’ water needs and helps discourage foliar diseases. Onion Doctor provides drip irrigation installation and maintenance services to help manage your watering needs efficiently. Onion Farming in Kenya: Weeding Weed control is especially important early in the growing season to prevent competition for nutrients. When the onions start to bulb up, push the mulch back so that they get good air circulation. Pest and Disease Control The most common conditions that affect onions are blight, purple blotch, and thrips. They are caused by fungus and are more common during periods of high moisture. Blight appears as small white spots surrounded by a greenish halo. Purple blotch causes a purplish discoloration of leaves. Proper plant spacing helps increase airflow and reduces both blight and purple blotch. Thrips are sucking insects that sometimes attack onion plants, causing the leaves to turn grey or silvery. Thrips are barely visible as tiny yellow or dark specks about 1 mm long. Organic controls for thrips include safer soap or Pyrethrin. They can hide in weeds, so be sure to weed your garden patch after harvest and control weeds in the onion bed throughout the growing season. For pest and disease management, Onion Doctor offers expert agronomic support. Onion Farming in Kenya: Harvesting Proper treatment at harvest maximizes the amount of time you’ll be able to store your onions. When the tops of the onions turn brown or yellow and fall over, it’s time to harvest. Ideally, the plant will have about 13 leaves at this point. Pull the onions early in the morning on a sunny day and shake off excess soil. Dry the onions in the sun for two days. To prevent sunscald, lay the tops of one row over the bulbs of another. For harvesting tips and farm management services, Onion Doctor is here to help. About Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support

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 offers substantial profit potential, particularly when integrated with modern techniques such as drip irrigation. This article provides a comprehensive guide to onion farming in Kenya, emphasizing the benefits of partnering with Onion Doctor for optimal results. Growing Onions in Kenya Maturity and Harvest Period Bulb onions typically take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. The short rains season is ideal for cultivating bulb onions, allowing for harvests between January and February. During this period, local farmers benefit from reduced competition from Tanzanian imports. After the long rains of March, onion prices generally increase, enabling farmers to achieve higher profit margins. Ideal Conditions for Onion Farming For optimal growth, onions require well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.8. The ideal temperature for onion farming is between 13°C and 35°C, making most parts of Kenya suitable for cultivation. Onion farming can be a year-round venture with the use of irrigation. Soil Testing Conducting soil tests with accredited laboratories is recommended to determine specific nutrient requirements. This ensures the application of the correct type and amount of fertilizers. Drip Irrigation: Enhancing Onion Farming Drip irrigation is the most efficient method for onion farming in Kenya, especially in regions like Ukambani and the Coastal area, where temperatures are high and water is scarce. This system delivers water directly to the plant roots, reducing wastage and promoting healthy growth. Benefits of Drip Irrigation Water Efficiency: Drip irrigation significantly reduces water usage by delivering water directly to the plant roots. Disease Prevention: By avoiding water contact with foliage, drip irrigation helps prevent fungal diseases common in onions. Nutrient Management: Fertigation, or the delivery of nutrients through the irrigation system, ensures consistent nutrient supply to the plants. Required Inputs For successful onion farming using drip irrigation, you need: Land: Prepare the land, ensuring it is free from weeds. Seedlings: 1 kg of onion seedlings can be used per acre. Fertilizers: Apply 20 grams of DAP fertilizer per square meter. Irrigation System: Invest in a quality drip irrigation system suitable for your farm size. Popular Onion Varieties in Kenya Common hybrid onion varieties in Kenya include: Red Creole Red Pinnoy Jambar 1 Red Bombay The Jambar F1 variety is particularly popular due to its high yield and larger bulb size. Challenges and Solutions in Onion Farming Water Management Excessive rain or over-watering can lead to waterlogging. To mitigate this: Grow onions during the short rains if your region experiences heavy rainfall. Raise beds to enhance drainage. Use drip irrigation to control the amount of water delivered to the plants. Pests and Diseases Common diseases affecting onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Pests such as maggots, thrips, nematodes, and leaf miners can also pose threats. To manage these: Use appropriate fungicides and pesticides from accredited brands. Implement regular monitoring and integrated pest management practices. Weed Control Weeds compete with onions for nutrients and water. Conduct at least 2-3 weeding sessions per season, either manually or using herbicides. Harvesting Onions The optimal time for harvesting onions is during the dry season. Keep a detailed calendar to track planting and expected harvest dates. Bulb onions are ready when they form a shiny membranous cover or when the foliage withers. Harvesting involves pulling the bulbs, chopping off the leaves, and drying the bulbs in the sun before storage. Support from Onion Doctor Onion Doctor provides extensive support to smallholder farmers across Africa, including: Quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings. Farm planning services. Soil testing. Drip irrigation installation and maintenance. Agronomic support. E-extension and on-farm training. These services help farmers optimize yields and maximize profits, making Onion Doctor an invaluable partner in onion farming in Kenya.

Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service offerings include: Onion seedlings Garlic seedlings Farm planning services Soil testing Drip irrigation installation and maintenance Agronomic support Onion and Garlic value pack Farm management For free consultation, placing orders, or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or WhatsApp at +254703982228, or Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. Best Onion Seed Varieties for Increased Yields  Red Creole Onion Variety Characteristics: Red Creole onion seeds produce bulbs with deep red or burgundy-colored outer skin and white flesh. These onions are typically flattened or slightly rounded, ranging from small to medium in size. The outer skin is papery and thin, while the flesh is firm and juicy. Culinary Use: Red Creole onions are known for their mild, sweet flavor, making them versatile in the kitchen. They are excellent raw in salads, sandwiches, and salsas, adding vibrant color. They also hold up well when cooked, imparting a subtle sweetness to soups, stews, and stir-fries. Adaptability and Growing Conditions: Red Creole onions thrive in various climates, including temperate and subtropical regions. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and require full sun exposure. Using foliar fertilizer is recommended for regions with water stress, enhancing growth and yield. In Kenya, these onions can be grown in both highland and lowland areas with adequate irrigation and protection from waterlogging. Yield Potential: With proper cultivation practices, Red Creole onions can yield a substantial harvest. They also have good storage qualities, lasting several months under optimal conditions. After harvesting, it’s essential to cure the onions by drying them until the outer skins become dry and papery. Once cured, store them in a cool, dry place with adequate air circulation to prevent mold and decay. Disease Resistance and Pest Tolerance: Red Creole onions show resistance to common diseases like pink root and onion white rot. However, crop rotation and soil management practices are crucial. Regular monitoring for pests such as onion thrips and onion maggots helps prevent infestations. Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety Characteristics: Texas Grano 502 onions have large, round bulbs with golden-yellow outer skin and white flesh. They are known for their firm, crisp texture and mild, sweet flavor. Culinary Uses: These onions are versatile and suitable for raw consumption in salads, sandwiches, and salsas. They add a sweet crunch to dishes and are ideal for soups, stews, and sautés. Adaptability and Growing Conditions: Texas Grano 502 onions adapt well to various climates and growing conditions. They thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and full sun exposure. Adequate irrigation is necessary to promote bulb development and prevent moisture stress. Yield Potential: Texas Grano 502 onions are renowned for their high yield potential, producing large, uniform bulbs. Proper cultivation practices can result in a significant harvest, making them economically attractive for farmers. These onions store well for several months if cured and stored properly. Disease Resistance and Pest Tolerance: This variety exhibits resistance to diseases like pink root and onion white rot. Crop rotation and soil management are essential to minimize disease pressure. Regular monitoring for onion pests is crucial to prevent crop damage. Bombay Red Onion Variety Characteristics: Bombay Red onions feature deep red or purplish outer skin with white to pinkish flesh. They are typically rounded with flattened tops and range from small to medium in size. Culinary Uses: Known for their strong, pungent flavor, Bombay Red onions add depth to dishes. They are excellent for cooking, where their bold flavor mellows and sweetens when caramelized, enhancing soups, stews, curries, and savory dishes. Adaptability and Growing Conditions: Bombay Red onions thrive in temperate climates, particularly in Kenya’s highland regions. They require well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and full sun exposure. Adequate irrigation and proper spacing are essential for optimal bulb development. Yield Potential: Under optimal conditions, Bombay Red onions can yield 15 to 20 tons per hectare. Proper soil preparation, fertilization, irrigation, and pest control can significantly increase yield. Storage and Shelf Life: These onions store well for several months if properly cured and stored. Drying them in a well-ventilated area until the outer skins are dry and papery is essential before storage. Disease Resistance and Pest Tolerance: Bombay Red onions resist common diseases like pink root and onion white rot. However, proper crop management practices are necessary to maintain healthy crops. Tropicana F1 Onion Variety Characteristics: Tropicana F1 onions are hybrids known for their uniform bulb size, high yield potential, and disease resistance. They have round to slightly flattened bulbs with golden-brown outer skin and white flesh. Culinary Uses: These onions are versatile, suitable for salads, soups, stews, and stir-fries. They have a crisp texture and sweet taste, making them ideal for raw and cooked dishes, including onion rings and slices. Adaptability and Growing Conditions: Tropicana F1 onions grow well in tropical and subtropical climates, making them suitable for cultivation in Kenya. They require well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and full sun exposure. Adequate irrigation and spacing are essential. Yield Potential: With yields ranging from 25 to 30 tons per hectare under optimal conditions, Tropicana F1 onions are highly productive. Proper soil preparation, irrigation, and pest control are key to maximizing yield. Storage and Shelf Life: Tropicana F1 onions store well for several months if properly cured and stored. Ensuring the outer skins are dry and papery before storage is critical to prevent mold and decay. Disease Resistance and Pest Tolerance: This variety resists common diseases like pink root and onion white rot. They also tolerate pests such as onion thrips and onion maggots, although regular monitoring and management are still necessary. Boost Your Onion Farming with Onion Doctor Onion Doctor supports smallholder farmers across Africa by providing quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, and more. Our goal is to help farmers optimize yields and maximize profits through expert guidance and innovative solutions. Whether you’re growing Red Creole, Texas Grano