Onion Farming in Kenya, Varieties, Planting, Care, Yield, and Profits: A Comprehensive Guide

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) 2014 report, Tanzania imports 50% of Kenya's red onions. Kenyan farmers have been working hard to meet demand and close the gap, but there is still room for more supply. Because local production is insufficient, the Red Bulb Onion is a very appealing commercial investment for the Kenyan market at the moment.

The most common types of onions grown in Kenya are bulb onions and spring onions. Karatina, Oloitoktok, Naivasha, Kieni, Emali, and Mai Mahiu are the best farming areas.

It takes 3 to 4 months for bulb onions to mature. Because bulb onions can be harvested between January and February, short rains are ideal. 

Local farmers can benefit during this time period because there is a limited supply of onions from Tanzania at this time of year. The price of these onions rises after the long rains of March, and farmers who harvest after this time make good profit margins.

Spring onions are simple to grow. You could even grow them in your kitchen garden. They are commonly used as a seasoning in soups or in vegetable salads. Spring onions have several health benefits, including lower blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels.

Because of their longer shelf life and sweet flavor, bulb onions are more popular than spring onions. There are currently two varieties of bulb onions on the market. Tanzanian onions are small, thin, and firmly layered, with a strong pungent odor. The second is a large loosely held variety grown locally in Kenya.

Conditions for Onion Farming

Onions thrive in well-drained, fertile, sandy loam soils that are not compacted. The optimal pH range is 5.8 to 6.8. Onion farming is a worthwhile endeavor because it is possible to grow onions all year through irrigation. It is recommended that soil tests be performed by accredited laboratories.

Onions grow best in temperatures ranging from 13 to 35 degrees Celsius. This means that onions can be grown in the majority of Kenya. To maximize production in areas such as Ukambani and some parts of the Coastal area, however, a greenhouse and drip irrigation are required. Because these areas are hot, greenhouses will optimize the temperatures, and irrigation will provide much needed water. Onions are a summer crop. 

The majority of Ukambani and the Coastal region are extremely dry.

Apart from land, which is obvious, other requirements include DAP fertilizer and seedlings. 1 kg of seedlings can be used in 1 acre, while 20 grams of DAP fertilizer is applied per square meter.

 

It should be noted that different seed varieties perform differently under different conditions. Red Coach F1 and Malbec F1 are two common hybrid varieties available in Kenya. The Red Coach F1 seed variety is the most popular in Kenya because it produces a high yield and its onion size and color are ideal for Kenyan markets.
 

Challenges facing Onion Farming in Kenya

Excessive rain or watering: Excessive rain or watering can cause crop waterlogging. If the rain in your area is excessive, concentrate on growing the crop during the brief rains. You can also raise the beds to ensure that the water drains away from the field. Keep your onions from getting too wet. Drip irrigation is the best type of irrigation for onions. Overhead irrigation should be avoided because it promotes the growth of fungi.
 

Diseases: Common diseases that affect onions include Downy Mildew, Bacterial Soft Rots, Pink/White Root, Botrytis, and Rusts. Use the best Fungicides from www.greenlife.co.ke to get rid of the diseases.

Pests: Common pests that attack onions include maggots, thrips, nematodes and the leaf miner. Use the best pesticides from www.greenlife.co.ke to get rid of the pests.

Weeds: Weeds are a big challenge in onion farms. Use Commander 240EC from www.greenlife.co.ke at 10-14 days after transplanting your onions and get rid of all weeds (grass and broadleaves) till harvesting.

Harvesting onions

Harvesting is most effective during the dry season. Keep a calendar and record the important dates to ensure that you harvest at the appropriate time. Bulb onions are ready to harvest when the foliage withers and forms a shiny membranous cover around the bulbs. Spring onions are ready to harvest when they reach 15 centimeters in height and 1.5 centimeters in thickness.

The bulbs are harvested by pulling them and then chopping off the leaves. The bulbs are then sun-dried before being stored.
 

Step-by-step guide for onion farming in Kenya

It is critical to prepare the soil for onion farming in order to ensure a successful harvest. Here are some soil preparation tips for your onion farm:

1. Choose the right location. Onion plants need full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid planting onions in low-lying areas where they may be susceptible to rot. 
2. Test the soil. Before planting, it’s important to test the soil to ensure it’s rich in nutrients. For example, onion plants require a pH level between 5.8 and 6.8. 
3. Amend the soil. If necessary, add the soil with compost or any other organic matter to improve drainage and provide nutrients. 
4. Till the soil. Once the location and soil are prepared, it’s time to till the soil to loosen it up and create a bed for planting.
5. Plant your onions. Now that the soil is loose and fertile, it’s time to plant your onions! Be sure to space them evenly, so they have room to grow.

When is the best time in Kenya to plant onions?
 

In Kenya, the rainy season is the best time to plant onions. This is due to the fact that onions require a lot of water to grow properly. Kenya's rainy season typically lasts from April to June.

What is the best time to water your onions in Kenya?

Watering onions is an important part of the onion production process. If there is insufficient water, the onions will not develop properly. If you use too much water, the onions will rot. The important thing is to keep the soil moist but not soggy. During the growing season, onions are typically watered every 3-5 days. However, during extended periods of dry weather, the frequency may need to be increased.

Onions can be watered to moisten the soil if a drip irrigation system is in place. If you're not sure when to water your onions, look at the top layer of soil. It is time to water if the soil feels dry.
 

How do you set up drip irrigation for your Kenyan onion farm?
 

Drip irrigation is an efficient way to water your Kenyan onion farm. You can reduce water waste and increase crop yields by applying water directly to the roots of your plants. Depending on the size and layout of your farm, installing drip irrigation can be a simple or complex process. Here are some pointers and ideas for setting up drip irrigation for your Kenyan onion farm:

1. Choose the right type of drip irrigation system. There are many different types of drip irrigation systems available on the market. First, you must select a system appropriate for your farm’s climate and soil conditions.
2. Design your drip irrigation system. Once you have selected the right system for your farm, you need to design it effectively and efficiently. This includes deciding where to place emitters, how many emitters to use, and what type of tubing to use.
3. Install your drip irrigation system. Once you have designed your system, it’s time to install it. This involves digging trenches or installing raised beds, running tubing, and connecting emitters.
4. Test your drip irrigation system. Once you have installed your system, it’s important to test it to ensure it works properly. This includes checking for leaks and making sure each emitter is working correctly.
5. Maintain your drip irrigation system. Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your drip irrigation system working properly. This includes regular cleaning.

How to control weeds in Onions in Kenya?

Weeding is an important cultural practice in Kenya for onion production. Onions are extremely sensitive to weed competition, and even a few weeds can significantly reduce yield. To prevent yield loss, weeds must be removed early and frequently. There are various methods for controlling weeds in onions. Mechanical control, which includes hand weeding, hoeing, and using a tine weeder, is one method.
 

This method is time-consuming, but it can be effective if used on a regular basis. Chemical control, which involves the use of herbicides, is another method of weed control. Herbicides can be used prior to, following, or during the growing season. Some herbicides are pre-mixed, whereas others must be mixed with water before application. Weed control is best accomplished through a combination of mechanical and chemical methods.
 

In Kenya, how do you thin onion plants?
 

In Kenya, onion plant thinning is an important part of the growing process. It enables the plants to concentrate their efforts on producing fewer but larger onions. Thinning also aids in the prevention of overcrowding and promotes air circulation, lowering the risk of fungal diseases. To thin onion plants, carefully remove excess seedlings around each plant's base with your fingers or a small gardening tool. Make sure to leave enough space between plants for them to grow. Thinned seedlings can be transplanted to other areas of the garden or discarded.
 

In Kenya, how do you mulch onion plants?
 

In Kenya, mulching is an important part of onion plant care. In the onion field, a thick layer of mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool. Mulching onion plants is best done after the soil has been freshly tilled and before planting.

Choose an organic material such as straw, hay, leaves, or grass clippings as mulch for your onion plants. Plastic and synthetic materials should be avoided because they can overheat the soil and damage the roots. Apply a 5 to 7-cm layer of mulch around each plant, taking care not to pile it too close to the stem. Mulching onion plants is one method for ensuring a plentiful harvest.
 

In Kenya, which fertilizer is best for onions?
 

Onions in Kenya can be fertilized with a variety of fertilizers, but not all are equally effective. In general, the best onion fertilizer in Kenya is high in nitrogen and low in phosphorus. This fertilizer will aid in the promotion of vigorous growth and large bulb size. However, it is critical to select a fertilizer that is well-suited to your area's specific soil and climate conditions. DAP fertilizer is a popular type of onion fertilizer in Kenya.

This fertilizer, which is composed of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is well-known for its ability to promote rapid growth. NPK fertilizer is another popular option. This type of fertilizer contains a higher proportion of phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen fertilizer. These two nutrients are necessary for healthy onion growth, but in high concentrations, they can be toxic.
As a result, it is critical to select an NPK fertilizer specifically designed for onions in Kenya. Whatever fertilizer you choose, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Overfertilization can harm your onions, so stick to the recommended application rates.
 

In Kenya, where do onions grow best?
 

Onions are a popular crop in Kenya and can be grown in a variety of locations. However, they thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Onions require at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Onions prefer nutrient-rich, organic-rich soil that drains well.

If your soil is not draining well, you can improve it by adding organic matter like compost or manure. Kenya is a large country with a variety of climate zones. Onions can be grown in most of these zones, but they thrive in areas that have warm weather for the majority of the year.
 

How profitable is onion farming in Kenya

According to recent studies, onion farming in Kenya can be quite profitable. Onions are one of the most widely grown crops in the country, and farmers can make a good living by selling them. Onions are generally simple to grow and require little care. They can be grown in a variety of soil types and climate conditions, making them an excellent choice for Kenyan farmers. Onions also have a long shelf life, which means they can be stored and sold all year.

Onion farming can provide good returns for farmers in terms of profitability. A farmer with one acre of land, for example, can earn around KES 30,000 to 40,000 per year from onion sales. If the farmer can sell his onions at a higher price, his profit margin will increase even more. Onion farming is a profitable venture for Kenyan farmers in general. Farmers can earn a good living from onion sales with little investment or effort.
 

In Kenya, how long does it take for an onion to mature?
 

In Kenya, onions take four to six months to mature. This is due to Kenya's favorable climate and soil type for onion cultivation. The length of the maturing process, however, may differ depending on the variety of onions planted.
 

Which is the best onion variety in Kenya?

In Kenya, a wide range of onion varieties with distinct flavors and textures are grown. We can narrow it down to a few possibilities. Red onion is one of Kenya's most popular onion varieties. The sharp, spicy flavor of red onions is well known throughout the country. They are frequently used in cooking to impart a rich flavor to dishes.

The white onion is another popular onion variety in Kenya. White onions have a milder flavor and a more delicate texture than red onions. They're frequently served raw in salads or as a garnish on dishes. Finally, yellow onion is another common variety grown in Kenya. Yellow onions taste slightly sweeter than other types of onions.
 

Common onion pest and diseases in Kenya?

In Kenya, onions are susceptible to a variety of common pests and diseases. Whiteflies - these small insects can infest onion plants, causing them to produce fewer onions. They can also infect plants with viruses.

• Aphids – these small, sap-sucking insects can damage onion plants and reduce yields. They can also transmit viruses to plants.
• Thrips – these small, winged insects feed on onion leaves and flowers, causing them to turn brown and wither. They can also transmit viruses to plants.
• Onion maggots – the larvae of flies, these pests burrow into onion bulbs, causing them to rot.
• Downy mildew – this fungal disease affects the leaves of onion plants, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die.
• Fusarium root rot – this fungal disease affects the roots of onion plants, causing them to rot and eventually die.

How can I grow onions faster in Kenya?

You can speed up the growth of onions by doing a few things. First, make sure your onions are planted in well-drained soil. They also require full sun to thrive, so choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Next, give your onions a boost by watering them regularly with good fertilizers every few weeks.

You can also amend the soil with organic matter or compost, such as compost or manure. Finally, if your onions are crowding each other, thin them out. This will allow them to grow bigger and faster. You should be able to grow delicious onions in no time if you follow these tips and ideas!
 

How and When to harvest onions in Kenya? 

Kenya has a tropical climate with two rainy seasons per year. Although onion cultivation is possible all year, the best time to plant onions is during the first rains, which typically fall in late March or early April. The second rains fall between late October and mid-November. Harvesting onions in Kenya typically occurs four months after planting, though this varies depending on the onion and location.

Onions are ready to harvest when the leaves begin to yellow and fall over. Farmers use a hoe to loosen the soil around the plant before harvesting onions. They then lift the onion by the stem, taking care not to damage the bulb. Before being sold, onions are typically sun-dried for a few days.

How many onions can you harvest from one plant in Kenya?

The answer is determined by a number of factors, including the type of onion grown and the conditions on your farm. You can expect to harvest 10 to 15 onions per plant on average. However, if you grow a larger variety of onions or if your farm's conditions are ideal, you could harvest up to 20 onions from each plant.

 

The yield of onions per acre in Kenya

The National Horticultural Research Institute estimates that the average yield of onions per acre in Kenya is between 35 and 40 tonnes. However, yields can vary greatly depending on the onion variety, soil type, weather conditions, and farming practices used. Small-scale farmers, for example, may only achieve yields of 10-20 tonnes per acre using traditional methods, whereas large-scale farmers using modern techniques can achieve yields of up to 60 tonnes per acre.

How many tons of onions do you get per acre in Kenya?

Onions are a staple in Kenyan cuisine and are widely grown across the country. Kenya's average onion yield per acre ranges between 10 and 20 tons. However, this can vary depending on the onion variety, soil type, and climate.

Where to sell onions in Kenya?

Kenya is a well-known fresh produce exporter, and onions are one of the country's main exports. Depending on the quantity to be sold and your preferred method of sale, there are several ways to sell onions in Kenya. Wholesale markets are the most common way for onions to be sold in Kenya. These are usually found in major cities like Nairobi, and onion sellers can take their produce there to sell to wholesalers.

This is frequently the best option for those who have a large quantity of onions to sell because it allows them to reach a large number of potential buyers. Online platforms are another option for selling onions in Kenya. 
 

Farmers and other producers can list their products for sale on some websites, and buyers can browse these listings and purchase items that interest them. This is a good option for those who have fewer onions to sell because it allows them to reach a global audience of potential buyers.

Finally, direct sales are another option for selling onions in Kenya. This entails locating buyers who are interested in your onions and selling them directly to them. This can be accomplished through personal contacts or by advertising your onions for sale in local newspapers or on the internet. This option is often best for those who have fewer onions to sell because it allows for more price and payment method flexibility.
 

In Summary

Kenya has a large number of farmers who grow onions. For the past few years, Kenyan farmers have been able to produce a good crop of onions. You can make good money in the onion cultivation sector if you have a good onion farming business plan.