How would
we even get to enjoy the kitchen delicacies without onions? Onion farming is
one of the most underrated practices that has a potential of fetching millions
of money. Many Kenyans for a long time have been enjoying the presence of this
gem in their kitchens without really putting much thought to it in terms of
monetary value. I mean, why would we be enjoying something soo good and fail to
think that we can farm it and make money as well.
Onion farming in Kenya.
Onions
thrive in various regions of Kenya that offer diverse micro climates that allow
for all year-round cultivation. These areas include Nakuru, Kitale, Eldoret,
Embu, Meru, Bungoma, Nanyuki, Limuru etc.
Ideal climatic conditions for growth of onions in Kenya.
Onions
thrive best in well-drained soils that provide a conducive environment for
onion cultivation by preventing waterlogged conditions, promoting aeration,
supporting root development, and facilitating nutrient availability. A soil pH
range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for the growth of onions. Onions prefer full
sunlight exposure and cool temperatures between 13 to 24 degrees Celsius for
optimal growth. Adequate and constant water supply is essential as well.
Step by step process for planting onions.
Onions
can be grown from sets, seeds, or seedlings. A set is a small onion bulb that
is planted instead of a seed to produce a mature bulb and is usually have had
been planted before in a previous season. Planting onions involves several
steps such as.
Mixed varieties of onion sets.
1.
Preparing the soil
Preparing
the soil for planting onions involves choosing a well- drained area with a sand
loamy texture, testing the soil pH, and adjusting it accordingly to a range
between 6.0 and 7.5. This step also involves incorporating organic matter, such
as compost or well-rotted manure to improve on the soil fertility and
structure. After all that is done, till the land to loosen up the soil while
removing existing weeds and grass to reduce competition for nutrients.
2.
Planting materials
Choose
quality onion sets, seeds, or seedlings from reputable sources like Richfarm Kenya. Call or Whatsapp 0724698357/0723213602 to make your order. When selecting,
assess the available varieties and choose based on your culinary preferences, think
of the local climate and growing conditions as some regions may favour one
planting material over the other, also consider the maturity period and how
quickly you would want to harvest. For example, sets mature more quickly than
onions grown from seeds.
3.
Actual planting
The
best time to plant onions in Kenya is before the onset of the rains, around
late February to March. Onions require a lot of water to grow up so proper
timing when planting is important. You should plant the sets, seeds/seedlings
about an inch deep with a spacing of around 12-18 inches apart.
4.
Watering
Water
the onions consistently especially during the early stages of growth and bulb
formation. To maintain consistent moisture, you can consider taking up drip
irrigation which is efficient in delivering water directly to the root zone
while minimizing water contact with the foliage, reducing the risk of fungal
diseases.
5.
Mulching
Mulching
is a practice that involves covering the topsoil around a plant with a layer of
materials such as leaves, grass etc. It helps retain moisture, suppress weeds,
and maintain more stable soil temperatures.
6.
Pests and diseases
Onions
are prone to a number of pests and diseases such as onion maggots, downy
mildew, bolting onions, thrips, pink root etc. Managing onion diseases involves
combining preventive measures and targeted interventions.
7.
Harvesting
The
most awaited time of the whole process is now here. Your onions are ready and
it’s now time to harvest. This is approximately 3 to 4 months or less after
planting depending on the variety. Harvest when the tops have fallen over and
started to dry, it indicates that the bulbs have stopped growing and are likely
mature. The outer skin of mature onions is papery and has a colour for that
particular onion variety.
You can harvest your onions manually or through machines. Hand harvesting in as much as it
can be tiresome is much better as it allows for careful handling of the bulbs,
reducing the risk of damage. Manual harvesting involves lifting the layer of
soil around the onion with a garden fork or shovel and then lifting the bulb by
hands.
Common onion varieties grown in Kenya.
In
Kenya, several onion varieties are cultivated to suit different preferences and
growing conditions. Onion varieties are classified in to two, local varieties
and hybrid onion varieties.
a)
Local onion varieties
§ Red
Creole
§ Bombay
Red
§ Texas
Grano
§ Red
Pinoy
b)
Hybrid onion varieties
§ Red
Passion F1
§ Red
Nice F1
§ Red
Coach F1
§ Jambar
F1
Economic potential of onion farming.
Onion
farming possesses considerable economic potential due to its high demand and
versatility. Onions are highly consumed and are a staple ingredient in many
global dishes, ensuring a consistent market demand. Additionally, onions can be
cultivated year-round in different regions, contributing to a steady income.
The versatility of onions extends to value-added products such as pickles,
sauces hence creating opportunities for you as a farmer to add value to their produce.
Engaging in onion export further contributes to the agricultural economy,
offering income opportunities for farmers.
Health benefits.
As
we look towards food security and profit making in onion farming, we do not
overlook the health benefits associated with onions. Onions provide numerous
health benefits and incorporating them in a balanced diet is a flavourful way to
harness these health benefits and enhance overall nutritional intake.
Onions
are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids which help combat stress and reduce
the risk of chronic diseases. Compounds in onions exhibit anti-inflammatory
properties that potentially aid in the prevention of inflammatory conditions.
Onions decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases by promoting lower blood
pressure and reducing cholesterol levels. The presence of Vitamin C and B6 in
onions supports a healthy immune system, enhancing the body’s ability to fight
off diseases.
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