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Growing onions in a kitchen garden can be a rewarding experience. Onions are relatively easy to grow and require minimal space, making them suitable for small gardens or even containers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow onions in a kitchen garden:
Varieties: We have varieties that do well in hot low altitude areas such Neptune f1, Redcoach F1 ,Jambar F1 and varieties that do well in colder high altitude areas such as Russet F1,Malbec F1. Broadly, short day varieties do well in cooler areas while long day varieties do well in hotter areas.
- Prepare the soil: Onions prefer well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Loosen the soil and remove any weeds or rocks. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve the soil’s fertility.
- Start with onion seeds or seedlings: The onion seeds take six weeks before they are ready for transplanting. On the other hand, seedlings are ready for transplanting after 45 days since the seeds were sown in bed. • If using seedlings: Plant them at a depth of 1-1.5 inch with an inter-plant spacing of 12cm and 18cm inter-row spacing. • If using seeds: Sow the seeds thinly in rows, about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Once they germinate and grow a few inches tall, thin the seedlings to maintain a spacing of 4-6 inches.
- Watering: Three or four driplines per bed. Onions require consistent moisture, but they shouldn’t be overwatered. Drip irrigation will help to prevent waterlogging and to do away with rotting of the bulbs. We Install Drip irrigation system to our clients.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or dried grass clippings, around the onions. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps the onion bulbs clean.
- Fertilization: Onion’s benefit from a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use compost or well-rotted manure as a natural fertilizer. We offer a fertilizer program at a competitive cost.
- Weed control: Keep the onion bed free from weeds that compete with the plants for nutrients and water. Regularly remove any weeds by hand or use a hoe, taking care not to damage the onion bulbs.
- Harvesting: Onions are ready for harvest when the tops (foliage) turn yellow and begin to flop over. Gently lift the onions from the soil using a fork or your hands. Allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area for a couple of weeks until the outer skin becomes papery. Time rage: three months to mature.
- Storing: Once the onions are thoroughly dry, remove any remaining soil or debris, and trim the roots and tops. Store the onions in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Mesh bags or wooden crates work well for storage.
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.