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Onion farming in Kenya offers immense potential for commercial and small-scale cultivation. With strategic regions, a diverse range of onion varieties, and the support of Onion Doctor, you can embark on a rewarding journey into onion cultivation. In this article, we explore the best practices for planting, nurturing, and harvesting onions in Kenya.
Thriving Onion Farming Regions in Kenya Onion farming in Kenya is adaptable to a wide array of locations, but some regions excel. The top-performing areas for onion cultivation include Makueni County, Kieni, Meru, Karatina, Naivasha, Kajiado, Emali, Oloitoktok, and Kakamega. Onions, revered for their flavor, are an integral component of Kenyan cuisine and offer numerous nutritional benefits.
Planting, Caring, and Harvesting Onions in Kenya Onions are a lucrative crop suitable for both commercial and small-scale farming. A well-managed acre of land can yield between 20-25 tonnes of onions, contingent on environmental factors, soil type, and onion variety. Onions flourish in well-drained sandy, loamy soils with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Ideal temperatures for onion growth range from 13°C to 24°C, especially during germination.
Exploring Kenyan Onion Varieties Kenya boasts an array of onion varieties, each with unique traits and market prospects. The Red Creole Onion Variety stands out for its deep red color, disease resistance, and potential for exports. Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety offers high yields and disease resistance for local markets. Bombay Red Onion Variety, with its long shelf life, caters to export demand.
Hybrid Onion Varieties in Kenya Kenya also features hybrid onion varieties known for their adaptability and disease resistance. Some popular hybrid varieties include Red Nice F1, Rasta F1, Red Coach F1, Malbec F1, Red Passion F1, Neptune F1, Red Connect F1, Rosa F1, Ruby F1, Red Pinoy F1, Sivan F1, and Jambar F1. These hybrids are resilient against perennial pests and diseases, providing a robust onion crop.
Onion Nursery Bed Preparation Onions are initially planted in a raised seedbed for germination before being transplanted into the main field. To prepare your seedbed:
Create raised seedbeds, 1.2m wide with your desired length.
Incorporate 20 liters per square meter of organic fertilizer into the soil.
Water the raised seedbed one day before sowing seeds.
Create evenly spaced rows of 10-15cm.
Field Preparation for Onion Farming One month before transplanting onion seedlings, plow the land and rake it to achieve fine particles. Incorporate 20-25 tonnes per hectare of ripe animal manure into the field. Mixing the organic fertilizer thoroughly with the soil ensures optimal moisture retention and rigidity. Make furrows in the prepared soil for planting, adding organic manure to the planting holes.
Transplanting Onion Seedlings After six weeks of germination, your onion seedlings should be ready for transplanting. These seedlings should be approximately 12 to 15cm tall. Thoroughly water the seedbed a day before transplanting to prevent root damage. Uproot the seedlings from the seedbed using a shovel, and trim the leaves and roots for better water retention. Plant the seedlings with 30cm spacing between rows and 8 to 12cm between seedlings. This arrangement promotes early maturation and high yields.
Harvesting Onions in Kenya Onions are usually ready for harvesting after four to five months (90-150 days) from sowing seeds, contingent on the onion variety and climatic conditions. Careful management and environmental conditions can lead to yields of 30 to 40 tons of onions per hectare. Harvest onions when you observe that 50 percent of the crop has withered and dried. Premature harvesting can lead to early spoilage. When harvesting, trim the entire stem, remove excess leaves and roots. Dry the onions in a well-ventilated, moisture-free area. Properly dried onions can be stored for three to six months in suitable conditions.
Onion Doctor offers comprehensive support to smallholder farmers across Africa. Their services encompass quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Farm planning, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value packs, Farm management, E-extension, and on-farm training. Partner with Onion Doctor to optimize your onion yields and maximize profits in Kenya’s farming landscape.