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. Onion farming in Kenya presents a lucrative opportunity for farmers seeking profitability in agriculture. At Onion Doctor, we understand the intricacies involved in achieving success in onion cultivation. Our expertise extends from market linkages to on-farm guidance, ensuring a bountiful harvest. Discover the keys to prosperity by following our comprehensive approach to onion farming in Kenya. Essential Steps for Profitable Onion Farming: Embarking on a successful onion farming venture requires meticulous planning and execution. Onion Doctor provides invaluable assistance in various crucial stages: Land Preparation: Prepare your land effectively with our expert guidance on soil health and structure before and during planting. We optimize your soil for maximum yield potential.  Transplanting and Weeding Strategies: Proper labor planning during transplanting and weeding is critical. Onion Doctor offers strategies to ensure efficient labor management, enhancing your overall farm productivity.  Post-Harvest Handling Procedures: Maximize profits by implementing effective post-harvest handling procedures. Onion Doctor provides insights into preserving the quality of your bulbs, ensuring a profitable gain during harvest. Contact Onion Doctor for a quotation and unlock the full potential of your onion farm The Lucrative Onion Market in Kenya: Understanding the onion market is pivotal for success. In Kenya, the demand for onions is vast, making it an excellent investment. Target the following markets for optim Diverse Consumer Base: Kenyan households widely incorporate onions into their daily meals, creating a consistent Target Institutions and Hotels: Institutions, schools, hotels, and restaurants represent lucrative markets due to their substantial onion consumption. Focus your marketing efforts on these high-dem Managing Market Fluctuations: Given the fluctuating prices in the onion market, Onion Doctor provides market linkages and insights to help you navigate market dynamics successfully. Health Benefits of Onions Besides being a profitable venture, onions boast numerous health benefits, making them a valuable addition to the diet. Incorporate these advantages into your marketing strategy:  Immune Health and Tissue Repair: Highlight the high vitamin C content in onions, promoting immune health and tissue repair.  Heart Health: Emphasize the presence of quercetin, an antioxidant that reduces heart disease risk factors such as high blood pressure. Antibacterial Properties: Share research findings on onion extracts inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, contributing to overall health.  Gut Health and Cancer Protection: Promote onions as a source of fiber, prebiotics, and alliums, supporting gut health and reducing the risk of certain cancers. Onion Doctor is dedicated to supporting smallholder farmers across Africa. Our services, including quality seedlings, farm planning, soil testing, irrigation solutions, agronomic support, and on-farm training, empower farmers to optimize yields and achieve maximum profits. Partner with Onion Doctor to transform your onion farming venture into a thriving and sustainable success.

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. Organic onion farming in Kenya has been gaining popularity due to the increasing demand for organic produce both locally and internationally. Organic farming is a sustainable agricultural practice that emphasizes the use of natural methods to grow crops without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). key aspects to consider when it comes to organic onion farming in Kenya: Onion doctor offers an Organic Feeding Program and Guide from Nursery- Harvesting time. For further information feel free to reach us. 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. The best way to know the fertilizers to use in onion farming is through soil testing. Soil testing enables a farmer to know the soil composition and the required corrections for effective onion production. However there is a basic guide on fertilizer application that we will dive into in this article. Onion Doctor provides Soil testing services at competitive prices. Be sure to contact us for a quote. Onions require a high source of nitrogen. A nitrogen-based fertilizer (ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate) should be applied at the rate of one cup per twenty feet of row. The first application should be about three weeks after planting and then continue with applications every 2 to 3 weeks. Potassium is necessary for good photosynthetic activity, migration, and utilization of synthetic carbohydrates. Its deficiency causes the yellow-green leaves, tops, and small bulbs to dry out. Onion cultivation requires 100 kg nitrogen, 50 kg phosphorus, and 50 kg potash Fertilization regime Fertilizer application for Onion should therefore start by first week after transplanting, with an NPK regime for establishment of the crop. 40% of the N, and K as well as Calcium requirements should then be applied by the 3rd-4th week during the first Top- dress. The second Top-dressing should then be done at the Bulbing stage. Onion Nutrition All basal fertilizers (e.g. DAP, CAN, etc.) and manure should be mixed with HUMIPOWER at the rate of 1kg Humipower into 50kg fertilizer or 1 ton of manure. Humipower helps to improve on the nutrient uptake by the crop, stimulates growth, improves soil structure, and adds organic matter to the soil among other benefits. OPTIMIZER 10ml/20l should be sprayed at all stages in order to boost crop’s immunity, manage stress, and improve the general performance of the crop. It supplies both macro and micro nutrient elements and growth hormones. Fertilizer application timing has a significant effect on crop yields. Proper timing of the fertilizer application increases yields, reduces nutrient losses, increases nutrient use efficiency and prevents damage to the environment. Once the neck starts feeling soft do not apply any more fertilizer. This should occur approximately 4 weeks prior to harvest. 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. White onion is a type of onion that is characterized by its white skin and white flesh. It is a common ingredient in many cuisines around the world due to its pungent, slightly sweet flavor and versatility in cooking. White onions are low in calories and fat, and are a good source of several essential nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. White onions are usually round or oval in shape and have a firm, crunchy texture. They have a strong, pungent flavor when raw, but become sweeter and milder when cooked. White onions are often used in a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, and sauces. They can also be caramelized or roasted to add flavor to a dish. In addition to their culinary uses, onions have also been used for medicinal purposes. They have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Properties in White Onion It might act as an antioxidant. It might be antimicrobial. It might safeguard the heart. It might be anti-parasitic. It might have the potential to help against lung diseases. It might lower the blood sugar levels. It might possess the cholesterol-lowering property. 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 verdant landscapes of Kenya, garlic farming stands as a testament to agricultural prowess. Fertilization plays a pivotal role in ensuring a healthy crop and maximizing yields. Onion Doctor’s Expertise in Fertilization: The cornerstone of successful garlic farming is a meticulous feeding program. Onion Doctor steps in as a guide, offering detailed feeding programs and comprehensive training on timely fertilizer application throughout the season. Smallholder farmers can benefit from this expertise by reaching out to Onion Doctor for a competitive quotation based on their acreage. Balanced Nutrition for Quality Onions: Quality onions demand a balanced approach to nutrition. Initiating the process with manure improves organic matter and soil structure. Soil test analyses play a crucial role in determining the required quantity of manure or nutrients. Fertilizer application should commence in the first week or during transplanting for optimal results. Precision in Fertilizer Application: Precision is key in fertilizer application. Overuse can lead to plant overgrowth, delayed maturity, and soft bulbs. Onions, with their shallow root system, require timely application in close proximity to the rooting system. Methods such as drilling furrows along drip lines or using fertigation systems ensure effective nutrient delivery without causing root damage. Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Dynamics: Understanding the dynamics of essential nutrients is crucial. Onions prefer nitrate nitrogen and require more nitrate N-source fertilizer. Late-season excess nitrogen can lead to delayed maturation and double centers. Phosphorus is crucial for early root growth and uniform crop establishment. Potassium becomes vital during bulb development, ensuring proper expansion. Critical Role of Calcium and Boron: Calcium and boron play critical roles in enhancing shelf-life and preventing rot in garlic bulbs. Foliar fertilization can effectively deliver these essential elements. Adhering to good agricultural practices becomes paramount, especially given the shallow root system, necessitating meticulous water and nutrient management. Onion Doctor’s Holistic Support: As a grand finale, the article emphasizes Onion Doctor’s role in supporting smallholder farmers across Africa. From providing quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings to offering farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation, and comprehensive agronomic support, Onion Doctor ensures 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. 1. First organized cultivation of onions started in Asia some 5,500 years ago. They quickly spread around the world, and became popular for their medicinal value 2. The onion was worshiped by ancient Egyptians. They believed that its spherical shape and concentric rings symbolized eternity. They used to cover the tombs of their rulers with onion pictures and onions played a vital role in burial rituals. They believed that onions would help the dead succeed in the afterlife. 3. Onions are very healthy to eat. They are filled with complex sugars that keep our metabolism healthy, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, beta carotene, folate (one of the B vitamins), and they have no fat. 4. One average sized onion has 30 calories. 5. Onions have been around since the Bronze Age! The oldest know onion harvest dates back to around 5,000 BC, over 7,000 years ago! 6. Largest onion ever grown weighted around 5kg. 7. Even cavemen ate onions! That’s right, our prehistoric ancestors were eating onions long before farming was even invented. They were a staple of the prehistoric diet. Wild onions grew throughout the world, and while on the hunt for meat, early humans munched on the delicious roots along their journey. Young, raw onions were the preferred snack, so we’re pretty sure they hadn’t invented onion rings at that point. 8. Is the onion a superfood? The health benefits of onions are more understood today and there are numerous benefits to keeping them in your diet. First off, they are low calorie, low carbohydrate and fat-free. But more impressively, onions are rich in antioxidants, including the flavonoid quercetin which is known to aid heart health. 9. Strong odor of onions can make us cry (various sulfuric compounds), but you can prevent that effect by employing several tactics. Some of the most popular ones are chewing gum, eating bread (calms the nerves sometimes), lighting a candle, cut onions under the cold running water or splashing a little white vinegar on the cutting board before starting to work with onions. 10. Onions are currently 6th most popular vegetable crop in the world, judging only by its production. 11. Athletes and soldiers in ancient civilizations used onion as a source of power. They believed that eating (Greek soldiers or athletes) or rubbing it on the skin (roman gladiators) can give them more strength and speed of movement. 12. You can get rid of onion breath by eating fresh parsley. 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 dynamic landscape of onion farming, the key to a bountiful harvest lies in understanding the nuanced needs of these heavy feeders with shallow root systems. Essentials of Soil Fertility for Onions: Onions demand meticulous soil fertilization to achieve top-quality yields, particularly in regions where rapid growth precedes bulb formation triggered by decreasing day lengths. Implementing proper soil fertility programs is vital to provide onions with the nutrients they require for robust development. Onion Doctor’s Feeding Program: Onion Doctor takes a proactive approach by offering specialized feeding programs for onions. The expertise extends beyond providing fertilizers; farmers receive training on the precise incorporation of fertilizers, including the when and how, ensuring optimal yields at the end of the season. For more information, farmers are encouraged to reach out to Onion Doctor at a highly competitive cost. Utilizing Organic Matter: The role of organic matter in onion farming cannot be overstated. Onions, being heavy feeders, thrive in soils with high organic content. This section emphasizes the significance of incorporating organic matter into the soil, offering practical advice on preparing the soil well in advance for maximum effectiveness. Maintaining Optimal Soil pH Levels: Soil pH plays a crucial role in nutrient availability to plants. Onions have an ideal pH range of 6.5 to 8.0, and this section guides farmers on the importance of maintaining the right pH levels. A soil testing recommendation is emphasized, providing actionable steps to modify soil pH. Balancing Nitrogen, Potassium, and Phosphorus: Onions have moderate nitrogen requirements, but nitrogen remains crucial due to their weak, shallow root systems. The article delves into the balanced application of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, providing specific fertilizer recommendations to meet these nutrient needs. Onion Doctor’s Comprehensive Support: Onion Doctor stands as a beacon of support for smallholder farmers across Africa. From quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings to farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation, and on-farm training, Onion Doctor covers every aspect of onion and garlic farming. This holistic approach aims to empower farmers, optimize yields, and ensure 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. 1. For hair growth: Onion juice is one of the best home remedies to fight hair fall and boost hair growth. Onions contain sulfur that boosts collagen production in the tissues and helps in the re-growth of hair. Hair fall is also often caused due to the absence of high sulfur proteins which leads to breakage and makes your hair strands fragile. 2. Repel insects and soothe bites: This may sound a bit revolting as no one really likes the smell of onion, but rubbing a slice of it on your skin acts as a natural insect repellent. Not only this, onion juice can also help in soothing the pain caused by insect bites. Onions slices are often rubbed on bee stings to soothe the pain and prevent swelling. 3: Additional flavor: Don’t throw away the onion peels. They are rich in fiber and antioxidants such flavonoids, quercetin, and phenolic compounds. Steep the onion peels in water for five-seven minutes and then use this water in your soups and stews. This adds a wonderful flavor to your curries and gravy-dishes. 4: Clean rusty knives: Have lots of rusty knives lying around in the kitchen? Here’s how you can clean them. Slice an onion and rub it all over the knife and on the rusted part. Rust is made up of hydrogen ions, and onions contain a chemical called sulphanilic acid that reacts with these hydrogen ions to break up rust and make your knives shine again. 5. Remedy for a sore throat: Onions are a great natural remedy for a sore throat. To treat a dry or painful throat, sip some onion tea. You can make this by steeping some onion peels in water (1 cup of water will require peels form 1/2 an onion). Bring it to a boil, remove the onion peel and then drink up to get relief. Onion peels contain natural nutrients to fight cold, flu and cough. 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. Onion farming in Kenya is a lucrative venture that thrives in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils with an ideal pH range of 5.8 to 6.8. This versatile crop can be cultivated throughout the year, thanks to the accessibility of irrigation. Ideal Conditions and Year-Round Cultivation: Onions flourish in temperatures between 13 – 35 degrees centigrade, making them suitable for growth in most parts of Kenya. To enhance production in hotter regions like Ukambani and the Coastal area, investing in a greenhouse with drip irrigation is crucial. Greenhouses regulate temperatures, and irrigation ensures a consistent water supply, especially in dry areas. Requirements and Varieties: Beyond land, essential requirements for onion farming include DAP Fertilizer and seedlings. Precision matters – 1 kg of seedlings per acre and 20 grams of DAP Fertilizer per square meter. Highlight the significance of choosing the right seed variety; in Kenya, popular hybrid varieties like Red Creole, Red Pinnoy, Jambar 1, and Red Bombay are available. The Jambar F1 variety is particularly favored for its high yield and larger onion size. Challenges and Solutions in Onion Farming: a. Rains or Excess Watering: Address the challenge of water logging due to excess rain by emphasizing suitable planting seasons. Promote raised beds and the use of drip irrigation to prevent waterlogging. b. Diseases: Highlight common onion diseases like Downy Mildew and effective solutions such as herbicides.  c. Pests: Discuss prevalent pests like maggots and nematodes, advocating for accredited pesticides.  d. Weeds: Emphasize the importance of weed control through physical removal or herbicide use.  Harvesting Best Practices: Guide farmers on optimal harvesting times – dry seasons for bulb onions with a shiny membranous cover and when foliage withers. For spring onions, harvesting is ideal when they reach 15 centimeters in height and 1.5 centimeters in thickness. Onion Doctor’s Support for Farmers: Highlight Onion Doctor’s role in supporting smallholder farmers across Africa. Mention services such as quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, value packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training.

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 processing is gaining importance worldwide. Processed onion is mainly in the form of dehydrated onion, canned onion and onion pickle.  Examples of value-added onion products include minimally processed onions like frozen onion rings, onion paste, dehydrated onion flakes, onion powder, onion oil, onion vinegar, onion salt, onion sauce, pickled onion, vacuum-packed onion, onion wine and beverages. Dehydration is widely used in onions to reduce the onion’s moisture content of about 86% to 7% or less for efficient storage and processing. Minimally processed: Onions are peeled and/or cut onions which retain its freshness. Availability of minimally processed onions to cook or ready to use purpose reduces the overall food preparation time. Alternatively, onions are used by way of frozen onion rings where the raw onions are sliced into rings, freeze dried and stored in a suitable packaging material under low temperatures. The frozen onion rings have a long storage life of 12 months and can be readily used for direct consumptions or for adding to soups and dressings Onion oil: Onion oil results from distillation of minced onions. It has a flavour strength 500 times that of the dehydrated product. Onion contains exceedingly small quantity of oil. This can be extracted by solvent extraction method or super critical fluid extraction technique. Oil is used as a flavoring substance, preservative and as a medicine. As the oil contains specific pungent aroma, encapsulation of oil is also done to reduce the pungent flavor while consuming. Dehydrated onion flakes: Are made from the dried onions and can be grounded to powder that dissolves more than the flakes. Dehydration in to flakes reduces bulk to store and transport besides increasing shelf life. Flakes are prepared by peeling, cutting, pretreating and drying using different drying techniques such as sun/solar, hot air/vacuum oven, microwave, fluidized bed, freeze drying and infra-red. Pretreatment before drying improves quality of dried product, prevents browning, accelerates drying rate and retains volatile compounds. Selection of proper drying technique is important to maintain quality of the product and make profit. Onion dehydration involves the following basic steps: Harvesting Transporting to the processing plant Curing Washing Slicing, Dehydration in a solar/mechanical/oven dryer Milling Packaging Dehydrated onion powder: Is prepared by grinding the dried onions, i.e. dehydrated onion flakes. Powder dissolves very easily and reconstitute quickly compared to flakes. It is a common ingredient in seasoned salt and spice mixes, such as royco seasoning. Some varieties are prepared using toasted onion. The dehydrated flakes and powder are used in the preparation of baked products like bread and pizza, seasoning, soups, sauces, salad sprinkles, among other uses. Dehydration decreases water activity of the material, reduces microbiological activity, and minimizes physical and chemical changes during its storage and extends the shelf-life. Dehydration  improves food stability of semi-perishable crops like the onion. 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.