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Health Benefits of Garlic
- Boosts the Immune System: Enhances defense against bacterial and viral infections, effective for treating flu and common colds.
- Promotes Cardiovascular Health: Improves blood circulation and reduces blood pressure.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Inhibits the growth of cancer tumors.
- Reduces Cholesterol Levels: Helps maintain healthy cholesterol in the body.
Garlic Varieties in Africa
1. Soft Neck Garlic: Predominantly grown in Kenya, including varieties like Africa Giant, Arusha Giant, and Rwanda Giant. These varieties range in color from white to purple.
2. Hard Neck Garlic: Less common but still an option for specific growing conditions.
Ideal Growing Regions for Garlic in Kenya
Garlic thrives in regions with low humidity, moderate rainfall, and consistent temperatures. The best areas for garlic farming include:
- Central Kenya: Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, Kirinyaga
- Eastern Kenya: Machakos, Embu, Meru
- Rift Valley: Laikipia, Nakuru, Narok
- Other Regions: Kajiado, Bomet
Optimal Ecological Conditions for Garlic Cultivation
- Temperature: 24°C to 30°C
- Altitude: 500 to 2000 meters above sea level
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile loam or black cotton soil with pH 5.5 to 6.8
- Recommendation: Conduct soil testing to enhance garlic bulb production and manage soil-borne diseases.
How to Plant Garlic for Maximum Yields
- Field Preparation: Plow and harrow the land for a fine tilt.
- Manure Application: Mix the soil with organic manure before planting.
- Planting: Sow garlic cloves 15 cm apart within 30 cm rows.
- Watering & Mulching: Keep the soil moist and add mulch to retain moisture.
Manure, Fertilizer, and Irrigation Tips
- Fertilizer Application: Use organic foliar fertilizers every 10 days after 4 weeks of planting.
- Irrigation: Drip irrigation is highly recommended for consistent water supply.
- Mulching & Weeding: Mulch with dry leaves or grass to reduce moisture loss and prevent weeds.
Managing Pests and Diseases in Garlic Farming
While garlic naturally repels many pests, common threats include red ants, thrips, and aphids. Diseases like leaf rust, white rot, and mildew can also affect garlic. Use organic pesticides and maintain good field hygiene to mitigate these risks.
Harvesting, Curing, and Storing Garlic
Garlic is ready for harvest in about 4 months when leaves turn brown. Cure harvested bulbs in a warm, dry place for a month. Properly cured garlic can last up to 6 month
Onion Doctor: Your Partner in Onion and Garlic Farming
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