Introduction to Onion farming in Kenya 2025
Onion farming in Kenya 2025 is one of the most profitable agribusiness ideas. Onions are used daily in homes, hotels, and restaurants. Demand is high throughout the year. With the right seeds, good soil, and proper care, farmers can earn big profits from onion farming in Kenya 2025.
Fig 1: Fresh red bulb onions in a basket
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Yield Estimator for Onion Farming in Kenya
On a well-managed farm, one acre of onions can give 15–25 tons in Kenya 2025.
Fig 2: Healthy onion farm with green leaves
Climate and Soil Needs for Onion Farming
- Temperature: 15°C–30°C
- Rainfall: 350–550 mm per season
- Altitude: 0–2000m above sea level
- Soil: Sandy loam, well-drained, rich in organic matter
- Soil pH: 6.0–6.8
Always do a soil test before planting.
Fig 3: Soil testing by an agronomist in the farm
Best Onion Varieties in Kenya
Popular onion varieties in Kenya 2025:
- Red Creole – sweet and red skin
- Texas Grano 502 – yellow, drought tolerant
- Bombay Red – pungent, grows well in highlands
- Tropicana F1 – hybrid, high yield, disease resistant
- Red Baron – deep red, bold taste
Fig 4: Different onion varieties displayed at a farm show
Onion Farming Profit Calculator 2025
- Cost per acre: Ksh 150,000–200,000
- Yield: 15–25 tons
- Selling price: Ksh 30–80 per kg
- Net profit: Up to Ksh 300,000 in 4 months
Where to Buy Quality Onion Seeds
Buy certified onion seeds from trusted suppliers like Kenya Seed Company, East African Seed Company, or licensed agro-shops.
Land Preparation and Planting Onions
- Plough soil 20–30 cm deep.
- Harrow until fine.
- Make raised beds 15–20 cm high.
- Plant spacing: 30 cm between rows, 10–15 cm between plants.
- Plant depth: 1–2 cm.
Fig 5: Farmer preparing raised onion beds
Onion Nursery Setup
- Make raised beds, 1 m wide.
- Mix soil with well-rotted manure.
- Make shallow furrows 15 cm apart.
- Sow seeds and cover lightly.
- Water daily.
- Mulch to protect seedlings.
Fig 6: Onion seedlings growing in a nursery bed
When to Transplant Onion Seedlings
Transplant at 6 weeks when seedlings are 15 cm tall and pencil-thick.
Transplanting Process
- Water seedlings before pulling.
- Transplant in rows 30 cm apart.
- Leave 10–15 cm between seedlings.
- Water immediately after planting.
Watering and Irrigation in Onion Farming
- Germination stage: Light, frequent watering.
- Vegetative stage: Moderate watering.
- Bulb stage: Reduce water to prevent rotting.
Best method: Drip irrigation.
Fig 7: Onion farm with drip irrigation pipes
Fertilizer and Nutrient Use in Onion Farming
- Before planting: Add compost or manure.
- At planting: Apply DAP.
- After 3–4 weeks: Top-dress with CAN.
- During bulb formation: Apply more CAN.
Mixing organic and inorganic fertilizers gives the best yield.
Weed, Pest, and Disease Control
- Weed by hand or use mulch.
- Control pests like thrips and caterpillars using safe sprays.
- Watch for diseases like downy mildew and purple blotch.
Fig 8: Onion leaf damaged by thrips
Harvesting and Storing Onions
- Onions are ready when 70–80% of tops fall over.
- Harvest carefully to avoid bruises.
- Cure onions in the sun for 3–4 days.
- Store in cool, dry, ventilated rooms.
Fig 9: Farmers curing onions in the sun
Market Prices and Profits in 2025
Onions sell well in markets across Kenya. Prices are higher in the dry season. Farmers who store onions well can make up to 50% more profit.
Challenges in Onion Farming and Solutions
- Unpredictable weather → Use irrigation.
- Pests and diseases → Plant resistant varieties.
- Price changes → Sell through cooperatives or bulk groups.
Business Plan for Onion Farming in Kenya
A good onion farming plan should include:
- Land cost or lease
- Seeds and fertilizer cost
- Irrigation system cost
- Labor costs
- Expected yield and sales price
Future of Onion Farming in Kenya 2025
The future is bright.
- Demand is rising in cities and hotels.
- Hybrid seeds give better yields.
- Irrigation makes all-year farming possible.
- Value addition like onion powder adds more profit.
Fig 10: Packaged onion powder in supermarket
Conclusion
Onion farming in Kenya 2025 is a money-making venture. With good soil, quality seeds, proper care, and smart marketing, farmers can earn up to Ksh 300,000 in just 4 months.
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