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.
Garlic farming in Kenya has gained significant traction as farmers seek high-value crops with strong market demand. With the right knowledge, quality garlic seedlings, and proper agronomic practices, farmers can achieve high yields and profitability. Onion Doctor, a leading expert in onion and garlic farming, provides essential services to support farmers in optimizing their garlic production.
Why Garlic Farming in Kenya?
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a high-value crop with increasing demand both locally and internationally. The health benefits of garlic, its use in cooking, and its medicinal properties make it a lucrative agribusiness. Here are key reasons to venture into garlic farming in Kenya:
- High market demand and good prices
- Requires less space compared to other crops
- Suitable for various climatic conditions
- Can be intercropped with other vegetables
Best Climatic and Soil Conditions for Garlic Farming
For optimal garlic production, the following conditions should be met:
- Climate: Garlic thrives in cool to moderate temperatures (12-24°C) with adequate sunlight.
- Soil: Well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 5.5 to 6.8.
- Altitude: Ideal growing conditions are found at altitudes of 500m-1800m above sea level.
Step-by-Step Guide to Successful Garlic Farming
- Land Preparation
- Clear the land and plow deeply to loosen the soil.
- Incorporate well-decomposed manure to improve fertility.
- Seed Selection and Planting
- Choose high-quality garlic bulbs from a trusted supplier like Onion Doctor.
- Break the bulbs into cloves and plant them 2.5 cm deep, spacing them 10 cm apart in rows 20 cm apart.
- Irrigation and Water Management
- Garlic requires moderate but consistent watering, especially during the vegetative stage.
- Drip irrigation, offered by Onion Doctor, is the most efficient method to optimize water use and improve yields.
- Weed and Pest Management
- Regular weeding is essential to reduce competition for nutrients.
- Common pests include thrips and nematodes, which can be managed through organic or recommended pesticides.
- Fertilization and Crop Nutrition
- Apply well-balanced fertilizers, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, to enhance growth.
- Conduct soil testing, a service provided by Onion Doctor, to determine the nutrient needs of your farm.
- Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
- Garlic is ready for harvest 4-5 months after planting when leaves start drying and turning yellow.
- Cure garlic by drying it in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks to enhance shelf life.
Why Choose Onion Doctor for Your Garlic Farming Needs?
Onion Doctor is committed to supporting garlic and onion farmers in Kenya by offering:
- High-quality garlic and onion seedlings
- Soil testing and farm planning services
- Drip irrigation installation and maintenance
- Agronomic support and farm management
- E-extension and on-farm training for optimized yields
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.