Written by 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. Harvesting usually takes place after four to five months. Nevertheless, onion farming can be a profitable venture for Kenyan farmers. With the right knowledge and management practices, farmers can produce high-quality onions in demand by both local and export markets. 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. A bountiful harvest depends on taking good care of the field during growth, the weather, and the type of onion variety. Properly managed crops can produce 30 to 40 tons of onions per hectare. Therefore, you should start harvesting the onions when you notice that 50 percent of your crops are weak and dry. Early harvesting causes the onions to spoil early. When harvesting, prune the entire stem and cut off the excess leaves and roots. After harvesting, dry the onions in a moisture-free, well-ventilated area. Again, store well-dried onions in a moisture-free, well-ventilated place. Wet onions will rot if you try to keep them. If the weather is excellent and moist-free, you can store onions for three to six months. You can keep small onions longer than wider varieties. After harvesting onions, remember to incorporate crop rotation to preserve the soil for the next planting season. This also assists in pest control and diseases. 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 world of onion farming in Kenya, success hinges on proper guidance and timely actions. Onion Doctor is your trusted partner in achieving exceptional yields. Explore our expert insights and training to ensure your onion farming venture thrives. Contact us today at a competitive price for valuable information and resources. Are you looking to excel in onion farming in Kenya? Onion Doctor offers essential guidelines and training for transplanting, spacing, and timely cultivation, all aimed at optimizing your yield. Discover our drought-resistant, disease-free seedlings, known for their exceptional quality, guaranteeing maximum yields by season’s end. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your onion farming in Kenya. We’re here for you! Transplanting Seedlings for Maximum Yield: Your onion seedlings are ready for transplanting approximately 4 weeks (40 days) after germination or when they reach the same thickness as a pencil. To prepare your seedlings for the transition, follow these key steps: 7-10 days before transplanting, gradually reduce watering and remove any shading to help the seedlings acclimate to direct sunlight. Optimal transplanting times are early morning (6-10 am) or late afternoon (4-6 pm). Two hours prior to transplanting, water the nursery beds so you can remove each seedling with a small lump of soil. Select the healthiest and strongest seedlings for transplanting. Weaker ones can remain in the nursery longer to bolster their growth. Plant the seedlings with a 10 cm spacing between them, and maintain rows that are 30 cm apart. Plant each seedling in holes 1.5 cm deep, firming the soil around the seedling. Weed Management and Nutrient Optimization: Weeds can threaten your crop by siphoning water and nutrients while also providing hiding spots for pests and diseases. To safeguard your onions: Regularly remove weeds as soon as they appear in your onion bed. Consider using herbicides for efficient weed control. Always follow the product instructions and wear protective gear when applying herbicides. When your onions are thriving, apply 120 kg of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) per acre. You can purchase CAN from local agrovets. Onion Doctor: Your Partner in Success Onion Doctor stands firmly with smallholder farmers across Africa, including Kenya, providing top-notch, affordable resources and support. Our offerings encompass high-quality onion and garlic seedlings, onion seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, onion and garlic value packs, farm management, e-extension services, and on-farm training. Our mission is to empower farmers to optimize their yields and maximize their profits. Elevate your onion farming in Kenya with Onion Doctor’s expert guidance and resources. Contact us today to embark on a journey of agricultural success. Your success story begins with us, your trusted 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 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. If you’re a Kenyan onion farmer looking to maximize your crop’s yield, you’ve come to the right place. At Onion Doctor, we understand the importance of a well-executed strategy, from the nursery preparation stage to the final harvest. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve your onion farming potential. Explore our services, which include: Drip Irrigation Kit and Installation Services: Optimize water management with our efficient irrigation solutions. High-Quality, Drought-Resistant Seedlings: Start strong with our premium seedlings designed to thrive in Kenyan conditions Agronomical Support for Full and Half Seasons: Tailored guidance to suit your acreage and specific needs. We’re here to help you succeed. Ready to get started? Reach out to us for a personalized quotation. Achieving High-End Success in Bulb Onion Farming: Successful onion farming in Kenya requires meticulous management, from land preparation to the final harvest. The difference between harvesting below a ton per acre and reaping a bountiful 20 tons per acre lies in following the right practices. Land Preparation for Bulb Onion Farming: Bulb onions thrive in well-prepared soils with good drainage. Optimal conditions include loam soils or sandy loam. Avoid poor-quality soils like clay or those with hard pads, as they hinder nutrient uptake and result in thin bulbs. Address soil issues before planting by incorporating at least 20 tons of farmyard manure through deep ploughing. This not only softens the soil but also enhances fertility and water retention capacity. Planting Bulb Onion Seedlings: To ensure robust onion growth, adhere to these planting guidelines: Irrigate the onion farm both before and after transplanting to establish healthy seedlings. Maintain a planting spacing of 8cm by 15cm to encourage the development of good-sized bulb onions. Smaller spacing leads to smaller bulbs, while wider spacing produces larger bulbs. Weed your onion crop 3-4 weeks after transplanting, taking advantage of dry weather conditions to prevent the spread of fungal diseases. Be cautious when using selective herbicides, as they may impact production negatively. Fertilizer Application for Maximum Yield: Despite using manure, topdressing is essential for achieving a high yield. Follow this fertilization schedule for optimal results: Apply 150kgs of DAP fertilizer two weeks after transplanting to promote root and leaf development. Bulb formation begins in the second month; topdress with 150kg N.P.K 17.17.17 to ensure uniform bulb formation in your farm. In the third month, add 150 kg of CAN fertilizer to support bulb expansion. Combine proper irrigation with timely and appropriate fertilization for yields exceeding 10 tons per acre. Bulb Onion Harvesting and Curing: Fast-maturing onion varieties under proper management typically mature within 90-105 days of transplanting. Ensure onion curing by bending onion leaves around the neck. Effective curing allows the leaves and neck to dry, thereby improving the shelf life of your bulb onions. Onion Doctor is committed to supporting smallholder farmers across Africa, including Kenya. Our offerings include high-quality and affordable onion and garlic seedlings, farm planning services, soil testing, drip irrigation installation and maintenance, agronomic support, onion and garlic value packs, farm management, e-extension, and on-farm training. Partner with us to optimize your yields and maximize profits from your onion farming endeavors in Kenya.
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. If you are seeking Onion farming training in Kenya, look no further than Onion Doctor. We have all the necessary training resources you need. We are more than willing to come to you at a very competitive price. Reach out to us for a quote, and we will be delighted to take you through the journey of Onion Farming in Kenya. Here are some of the services we offer: 1. Agricultural Extension Services: Get in touch with us for our training programs. At Onion Doctor, we offer comprehensive training programs, workshops, and resources covering various agricultural practices, including onion farming. Our services aim to support and educate farmers in different regions of the country. 2. Agricultural Training Centers: Onion Doctor’s training center is conveniently located at Kiserian Isinya Road, where you will even have access to our farm tour. Additionally, we offer online training modules, making it easier for you to learn from the comfort of your home. Come and learn from the best and gain access to the finest workshop on onion farming. 3. Local Farmers and Garlic Growers: Our location on Kiserian-Isinya Road enables us to provide practical advice and firsthand knowledge about onion farming tailored to your area’s climate and conditions. We are highly flexible and can easily come to you at a very affordable price. 4. Workshops and Agricultural Events: Onion Doctor actively participates in agricultural events, fairs, and workshops where we offer informative sessions on onion farming. During these events, we collaborate with other experts, researchers, and farmers to share valuable knowledge and experiences. Throughout the training with Onion Doctor, feel free to ask any questions to clarify your doubts and ensure a smooth journey when you start farming. We eagerly await your participation! 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. To attain the highest Return On Investment, ensure to use the right onion variety, correct seed rate, proper irrigation, nutrition and spraying. Get your soil tested for optimum onion growth. Onion Doctor offers high-quality seed variety, Drip Irrigation and installation services, Feeding program and soil testing services. Feel free to reach to us for a quote. High-end success in bulb onion farming calls for good management from land preparation to harvesting. Harvesting below a ton in one acre is easy as harvesting 20 per acre. Land preparation for bulb onion farming. Bulb onions require deeply ploughed fertile soils with good drainage. Loam soils or sandy loam are the best. Bad ploughing and poor soils like clay or soils with hard pads lead to slow uptake of nutrients by bulb onions leading to the growth of thin bulbs. Onion Doctor offers trainings and guides on how to prepare land, soil testing, manure application and feeding program to ensure from planting till harvest nothing goes wrong. We offer our services at a very competitive price. Reach to us for a quote. Adding at least 20 tons of farmyard manure with deep ploughing is always recommended before planting. This softens the soil and improves fertility and water retention ability. The farm should have enough water for irrigation in the dry season. Insufficient water leads to bulb abortion, stunted growth and low yields of poor quality. Onion Doctor provides Drip irrigation and installation services, for adequate water passage to the roots. Bulb Onion Variety. Some of the best varieties include Neptune, African Red and Red Coach. Onion Doctor we offer these high-quality varieties for a competitive price. Reach to us for a quote. How to plant bulb onion seedlings: The onion farm should be irrigated before and after transplanting. 8cm by 15cm is the best planting spacing for good-sized bulb onions. A smaller spacing leads to a smaller size bulb onion while a bigger spacing gives large-sized bulb onions. Weeding should be carried out after 3-4 weeks of transplanting depending on weed size. Weeding should be done in dry weather to prevent the spread of fungal diseases. Fertilizer application: Despite using manure, topdressing is recommended for high yield. Top-dress with 100kgs of NPK 23:23:0 fertilizer two weeks after transplanting to boost roots and leafs development. Good irrigation with proper feeding with the right fertilizers at the right time is the secret to a high yield. Pests and Diseases management: Purple blotch, downy mildew and Rust are the common diseases in bulb onion farming. Rust is a fungal disease that causes oranged raised spots on the leaves while downy mildew causes light green to yellow angular spots on upper leaves surfaces. Affected leaves may turn yellow and die off from the tip downward. Most of these fungal diseases are spread by spores carried by wind, irrigation water or splashing rain. Spraying fungicides will help in controlling these fungal diseases. Thrips are the worst pests in bulb onion farming. They are common in dry seasons where they sack water on onion leaves in the second month of transplanting. If not controlled, thrips can cause over 30% yield loss. Early spraying insecticides helps in controlling and preventing thrips in onion fields. Bulb onion harvesting: Fast-maturing varieties under good management mature within 90-105 days of transplanting. Onion curing is done first by bending onion leaves around the neck. Good curing allows leaves and neck to dry improving bulb onion shelf life. Sorting follows where bulb onion is graded based on size and quality from Extra large size to smallest size 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. If you are concerned about your health, you will want to consider adding more onions to your diet. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties onions contain make consuming onions great for your heart health. Not only that, but they are also highly nutritious and delicious! This article will provide you with ten health benefits of onions. 1. Have Many Antioxidants: Antioxidants may help prevent cell damage by fighting free radical molecules. Free radicals are developed when the body is exposed to radiation or tobacco smoke. These molecules can cause diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. By eating onions you can help your body fight free radicals and improve your overall health. 2. Help with Blood Sugar Levels: If you have diabetes, onions are an excellent way to help keep your blood sugar levels steady. The flavonoids in onions work to keep the blood glucose levels stabilized. If levels are low, you might experience symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, headache, and many other signs. 3. Improved Digestive Health: Onions contain a high amount of prebiotics and fiber. In the body, this helps improve gut health by aiding in digestion, strengthening the immune system, and lowering inflammation. 4. Loaded with Nutrients: Onions are considered to be nutrient-dense food. This means that they contain a small number of calories and a large number of nutrients. They are a great source of potassium and manganese. Potassium helps to increase energy and your metabolism. Manganese helps the body create connective tissue, aids in bone health, and lowers the chance of forming blood clots. 5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Onions contain an antioxidant called quercetin. Quercetin is an anti-inflammatory and works to fight off inflammation within the body. It is great at lowering swelling, helping with arthritis, and treating bladder infections. 6. May Keep Certain Cancers at Bay :If you are concerned about your risk of developing cancer, you may want to consume more onions. Researchers found moderate consumption of onions appeared to reduce the risk of colorectal, laryngeal, and ovarian cancers. 7. Great Source of Vitamin C: Did you know that onions contain a high amount of vitamin C? Vitamin C is essential for your body to function properly. It helps the formation of blood vessels, improves your immune system, and builds cartilage. 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. Bulb onion farming is gaining popularity among Kenyan farmers, especially on a small scale. In this guide, we explore the growing trend of red bulb onion farming and how Onion Doctor’s expertise can elevate your onion cultivation experience. From land preparation to bulb harvesting, we’ve got you covered with essential tips and guidance. The Rise of Red Bulb Onion Farming in Kenya: Kenyan Farmers have been doing their best to address the demand and close the gap, but there is still more supply to be achieved. This makes the Red Bulb Onion a very attractive commercial investment for the Kenyan market at the moment, since local production is not enough. Here at Onion Doctor we train and guide farmers throughout the onion farming process. Onion Doctor’s services include: Land preparation, High quality drought resistance seedlings, Drip kit and Installation services , Feeding program. Feel free to reach to us for a very detailed quotation. Pros and Cons of Red Bulb Onion Farming: Importation of bulb onions from our neighboring countries reduces market availability for the locally produced onion. This discourages the small-scale farmers who have a lower competitive edge. Red bulb onions require certain conditioning. This include soil PH of 5.8-6.5, temperature of between 15-16c.suitable land, moderate short rainfall. At favorable weather conditions bed bulb onions take an average of 3-4 months to mature. The most suitable regions for farming in Kenya include parts of lower Eastern and Rift valley, as well as central part. Farmers in these regions make use of the short rains to harvest their onions between the months of January and February. During this time, they have a large market to supply since there is lower supply from Tanzania. Harvesting is done during dry season. This is when the onions form a shiny cover around the foliage or when the foliage withers. The bulbs are pulled from the ground then the leaves are chopped off, before onion been dried in the sunlight and stored. Red bulb onions have a longer shelf live and can be stored for up to 5 months. This is a good venture although farmers face a lot of challenges. Excess rainfall is the main threat. However, drip irrigation is the most ideal method of irrigation in such a case. Alternatively, farmers may decide to wait onset of short rains. Pests and disease also pose a threat to red bulb onion farming. With availability of herbicides and pesticides this should be controlled effectively. Red bulb has varieties which include; red create, Bombay red, Rio Grande, red pinary F1 and Red passion F1 just to mention a few. Red bulb onion farming presents a lucrative opportunity for Kenyan farmers, and with the right guidance from Onion Doctor, success is within reach. Explore our comprehensive services, and let us help you optimize yields and maximize profits in your onion farming venture. Contact Onion Doctor today for quality and affordable support tailored to your agricultural needs. 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. 1. Boosts immunity: Raw onions are an excellent source of vitamin C, which aids in enhancing the body’s immunity. Vitamin C assists in generating white blood cells that defend the body against bacteria and viruses, making raw onions essential in preventing common ailments like the cold and flu. 2. Promotes cardiovascular health: Onions are rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which assist in decreasing bad cholesterol levels in the body, leading to improved cardiovascular health. Consumption of raw onion also aids in enhancing blood circulation, reducing high blood pressure, and preventing the risk of heart disease. 3. Aids in digestion: Raw onions contain dietary fiber, which is crucial for proper digestion and elimination of waste from the body. The fiber enhances the absorption of nutrients and prevents various ailments like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and haemorrhoids. 4. Reduces inflammation: Quercetin-rich raw onions have anti-inflammatory properties that assist in reducing inflammation levels in the body. It aids in managing conditions like arthritis, asthma, and bronchitis. 5. Enhances bone health: Onions are an excellent source of sulphur-rich compounds that contribute to enhancing bone health. These compounds aid in promoting calcium absorption and preventing the risk of osteoporosis. 6. Boosts brain function: Raw onions contain sulphur compounds, which increase the production of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to improved memory, attention span, and concentration levels. 7.Regulates blood sugar levels: Raw onions contain chromium, a mineral crucial in regulating blood sugar levels. Chromium assists in improving insulin efficiency, leading to controlled blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes. 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. Explore the incredible world of onions, not just as a nutritional powerhouse but also as a lucrative venture for farmers. Discover the health benefits of incorporating onions into your diet and delve into the advantages of commercial onion farming, particularly in Kenya. Join us as we shed light on the many layers of onions – from their nutrient-rich composition to the thriving business opportunities they offer. Onions are great vegetable containing various vitamins, minerals and potent plant compounds that have been shown to promote health in many ways. People are using onions from the ancient times mainly due to their medicinal properties. They are often used to treat ailments like headaches, mouth sores and hearth disease. Depending on the variety, most of the onions are about 1% protein, 9% carbohydrates (including 4% sugar and 2% dietary fiber), 89% water and negligible amount of fat.[1] Onions contain low amounts of essential nutrients and have an energy value of 40 kilocalories in a 100 grams amount. Onions contribute savory flavor to dishes without contributing significant caloric content. Health Benefits of Onions: Onions are packed in various vitamins and minerals. And the medicinal properties of onions have been recognized since ancient times. However, here we are trying to describe about the top health benefits of onions. Onions are loaded with nutrients. They are low in calories but very high in vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of vitamin C, B and potassium. Consuming onions may help reduce heart disease risk factors (such as high blood pressure). Most of the onions are rich in antioxidants. Red onions are rich in anthocyanins, which are powerful plant pigments that may protect against heart disease, certain cancers and diabetes. A diet rich in allium vegetables (like onions) may have a protective effect against certain cancers. So, you can add onions to your daily diet. Consuming onions regularly may help reduce high blood sugar, due to the many beneficial compounds found in onions. Studies show that onion consumption is associated with improved bone mineral density. Onions have antibacterial properties. They prevent the growth of potentially harmful bacteria like E. coli and S. aureus. Onions are helpful and may help you to boost your digestive health. They are rich source of probiotics, which help to boost digestive health, improve bacterial balance in your gut and benefit your immune system. You can enjoy onions in many different ways. They can easily be added to savory dishes, including eggs, meat dishes, soups and baked goods. Advantages of Onion Farming Business: Large scale or commercial onion farming business is very old and popular in many countries throughout the world. Starting and operating commercial onion farming business is very easy and simple. Even the beginners can also start this business. Commercial onion farming is very profitable and a very good way to earn money. Here we are trying to describe the main benefits/advantages of commercial onion farming business. Growing onions is very easy and simple, even the beginners can also start commercial production. You can make good profit from onion farming business, because commercial onion production is profitable. You will be able to make very good profits within a very short period of time. Both demand and value of onions in the market are good. It is a very popular item in the vegetable market. So, you don’t have to worry much about marketing your products. Caring onion plants is very easy, and the plants generally grow very well. You will be able to care for the plants even if you are a beginner. Commercial onion farming is very profitable, so it can be a good employment source for the rural people. Especially for the educated unemployed people. Commercial production of onions doesn’t require high investment. And you will get back your invested money within a very short period of time. Onions are very nutritious and consuming them on a regular basis has many health benefits. You can enjoy fresh onions (if you like them) if you start your own onion farming business. Onions are not only a staple in our diets but also a gateway to health and prosperity. Whether you’re looking to enhance your well-being through onion consumption or considering a foray into the world of commercial onion farming, this guide has provided insights to help you peel back the layers. Contact Onion Doctor today for quality support and embark on a journey to optimize yields and achieve maximum profits in your onion farming venture. 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. Delve into the world of onion farming in Kenya, where the humble bulb onion takes center stage as a widely cultivated vegetable. Uncover the secrets to successful onion cultivation, from understanding onion types to the expertise of Onion Doctor. This guide, offers a thorough exploration of the onion farming landscape in Kenya. Understanding Onion Types in Kenya: The onion, belonging to the genus Allium, boasts various types, with bulb onions and spring onions taking precedence in Kenya. Bulb onions, requiring 3 to 4 months to mature, thrive during short rains and offer optimal harvests between January and February. Spring onions, easy to plant in kitchen gardens, contribute to salads and soups, providing health benefits. Despite their distinct characteristics, bulb onions remain more popular in Kenya due to their extended shelf life and delightful taste. Bulb onions; take 3 to 4 months to reach maturity. Short rains are great for bulb onions since they can be harvested between January and February. After the long rains of March, the price of these onions hike and farmers who harvest after these period make good profit margins. Spring onions; are easy to plant, you can even plant them at your kitchen garden. They are commonly used in vegetable salads or as seasoning in soups. Some of the health benefits of spring onions include lower blood sugar and decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Of the two types, bulb onions are more popular than the spring ones due to their long shelf life and sweet taste. Currently, there are two different varieties of bulb onions in the market. There is the small, thin and firmly layered onion that has a strong pungent smell from Tanzania. The second one is the big loosely held variety that is grown locally, in Kenya. Onions are categorized according to the color, size and shape. Onions can be harvested while still young; there is a perennial type of onion which is rarely attacked by insects or diseases. The onions can be planted by direct seed or by transplanting. The seedling stage requires planting of seedling in a seedling bed, the soil of the bed should be loose which takes 6 weeks for them to be ready for transplant. Transplanting method has a higher rate of succeeding than direct seeds; onions grow well in raised beds or rows at least 4 inches high, the onion should go 4 inches deep only a third of the bulb should be underground, if the onion is deeply planted the growth of the bulb will be restricted. The width between each onion should be 5 inches; the rows should be 12 to 17 inches apart. Select an open garden when planting to avoid being shaded by other plants. The soil should be loose and rich in nitrogen, compact and hard soil will interfere with bulb development, mix the soil with some nitrogen fertilizer at the time of planting, side dress the onion after every two weeks, make sure you repeat the dressing after every two weeks until the onion starts to bulb. How to Plant: To get the best results with onions you need to start them in a Nursery. Here is how to do this; Make a raised nursery bed 1 metre wide and any desired length. Apply well decomposed manure at a rate of 15kg per square metre. Mix and Apply DAP fertilizer at a rate of 20 grams per metre square Make shallow furrows 15 cm apart. Mix the seeds with dry ash, sand or soil at a ratio of 1:3 to help spread the small seeds. Plant the seeds and cover lightly with soil and apply mulches ( Grass or Polythene cover spread over the soil on the nursery bed) After planting irrigate the nursery bed liberally for the first 10 days and continue watering regularly. Germination of seeds will take about 7-10 days after which the mulches are removed and used to make a shade above the tender plants which have not fully developed. Transplanting of the seedlings takes place 6 weeks after planting seeds in the nursery. Transplant when the seedlings have pencil thick base and a height of approximately 15cm. Seedlings should have 3 to 5 well formed leaves at transplanting time. Two weeks before transplanting reduce the shade to improve seedling survival rate in the field. It takes about 4 months for onions to mature Conditions for Onion Farming Onions perform well in well drained, fertile, sandy loam, non-compacted soils. The ideal pH is 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthy venture since it’s possible to grow onions throughout the year via irrigation. The ideal temperatures onions need to grow are between 13 – 35 degrees centigrade. This means that onions can grow in most parts of Kenya. In terms of requirements, apart from land that is an obvious fact, other requirements are DAP Fertilizer and seedlings. 1 kg of seedlings can be used in 1 acre while 20 grams of DAP Fertilizer is applied per square meter. You should note that there are different seed varieties and they perform differently under different conditions. Common hybrid varieties available in Kenya include Red Creole, Red Pinnoy, Jambar 1 and Red Bombay. The most popular seed variety in Kenya is the Jambar F1 since it produces high yield and the size of its onions are bigger. Challenges facing Onion Farming in Kenya Rains or Excess Watering: Too much rains or excess watering can water log the crop. If the rain in your area is too much, focus on growing the crop during the short rains. You can also