Welcome to the spicy and aromatic world of garlic farming in Kenya! If you are looking to dive into a lucrative and rewarding agribusiness, garlic farming in Kenya is a fantastic choice. Known as Kitunguu Saumu in swahili, garlic is a high-value crop with soaring demand for its culinary and medicinal uses. Whether you are a seasoned farmer or a beginner with a green thumb, garlic farming in Kenya offers immense potential for profit and growth. In this blog, brought to you by Onion Doctor, we will explore the essentials of garlic farming in Kenya, focusing on water requirements and the best irrigation systems to ensure your garlic thrives. Get ready to unlock the secrets of successful garlic farming in Kenya.
WATER REQUIREMENTS FOR GARLIC FARMING IN KENYA
Garlic is a thirsty crop, especially during its early growth stages but it is also sensitive to overwatering. Striking the right balance is a key to producing healthy, plump bulbs. Here is what you need to know about water requirements for garlic farming in Kenya:
- Early Growth Stages: Garlic needs consistent moisture during germination and vegetative growth .Aim for an inch of water per week to support root and leaf development.
- Bulb Formation: As garlic enters the bulb formation stage, water needs remain steady but should be reduced slightly to avoid waterlogging. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, especially in poorly drained soils.
- Pre-Harvest: About 3 weeks before harvest, stop irrigation to allow bulbs to mature and cure naturally. This helps improve storage quality.
BEST IRRIGATION SYSTEM FOR GARLIC FARMING IN KENYA
- DRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEM
Drip irrigation is the go -to method for garlic farming in Kenya due to its efficiency and precision.
- Advantages: Water Efficiency, Uniform Water Distribution, Weed Control, Fertigation Capability, Labor Savings.
- Disadvantages: Installation can be expensive. Emitters can clog, requiring regular maintenance. Plastic components may degrade under prolonged sunlight.
2. SPRINKLER IRRIGATION
This method uses sprinklers to simulate rainfall, covering large areas.
Advantages: Simpler setup compared to drip systems. Lower initial investment.
Disadvantages: Higher evaporation rates, especially in hot climates. Wet foliage can promote fungal diseases. Water distribution can be uneven.
3.RAINHOSE IRRIGATION
Rain hoses release water through small holes, creating a rain-like effect.
- Advantages: Uniform Water Distribution. Simple to install and operate
- Disadvantages: Higher water usage compared to drip systems. Water distribution can be affected by wind.
4.SUB SURFACE IRRIGATION
Involves burying irrigation lines below the soil surface to deliver water directly to the root zone.
- Advantages: Water Conservation, Weed Reduction, Enhances nutrient uptake by plants.
- Disadvantages: High Installation Cost ,Difficult to detect and repair leaks.
5. BASIN IRRIGATION
Basin irrigation is a traditional surface irrigation method employed in garlic farming, particularly in regions of Kenya with flat terrain and clay-rich soils. This technique involves creating shallow basins or plots enclosed by low earthen ridges (bunds) to retain water, allowing it to infiltrate the soil and reach the garlic roots.
- Advantages: Simplicity and Low Cost, Effective Water Distribution ,Soil Moisture Retention ,Erosion Control.
- Disadvantages: Labor Intensive ,Land Utilization, Soil Salinity Risk, Not Suitable for All Soil types, Disease Susceptibility.
Contact us for: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Germinated garlic cloves, Farm planning services, Soil testing, training on onion and garlic growing, 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. You can also check out our social media handles for daily updates on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oniondoctorke?_t=ZM-8wmsTu0qumO&_r=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oniondoctorke?igsh=MTVoaHF3aWUydTJzaQ==Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/16SwgYn2dG/ Youtube:https://youtube.com/@oniondoctorke?si=u5Jnd-r0qU9UDYqL and Twitter: https://x.com/OnionDoctorKe?t=FR3JXlS_oN1vjjUgAtfyzg&s=09