Spring Onion Farming in Kenya: A Profitable Venture

Spring onion farming is a lucrative agribusiness in Kenya. Though its initial investment is low, it fetches a lot of money.

Many people have realized how profitable this onion variety is. So spring onions are now cultivated in many parts of Kenya.

Are you ready to take advantage of this fresh opportunity? 

Let’s get started!

Introduction to Spring Onion Farming in Kenya

As earlier said, spring onion farming is gaining traction in Kenya. But what makes these slender green onions so special?

Well, they are special in different ways.

Spring onions are also known as green onions or scallions, They are a quick-maturing crop. They are grown in various regions across Kenya, from Nakuru to Meru.

Since they require a low initial investment, so they give quick returns on investment.

Difference between spring onions and bulb onions

• Spring onions are harvested young before the bulb fully develops
• They have a milder, fresher flavor compared to mature bulb onions
• The entire plant is edible, from the white base to the green tops

Importance in Kenyan diet and market

• Essential ingredient in many Kenyan dishes, from salads to stews
• Growing demand in urban areas for fresh, locally-grown produce
• Popular in restaurants and hotels for garnishing and flavoring

Nutritional value and culinary uses

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
• Good source of folate and potassium
• Low in calories, making them popular in health-conscious diets
• Versatile in cooking: raw in salads, cooked in stir-fries, or as a garnish

Pro Tip: Consider growing spring onions alongside other quick-maturing crops like lettuce or radishes for efficient land use and diverse income streams.

Climatic and Environmental Requirements

Before you venture into this agribusiness, get to know the ideal growing conditions.

I say so because success in spring onion farming hinges on with understanding the ideal growing conditions.

The ideal climate

• Temperature: 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
• Humidity: Moderate levels (50-70%)
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

Best regions in Kenya for spring onion farming

1. Nakuru
2. Kiambu
3. Kajiado
4. Meru

Soil requirements

• Type: Well-drained sandy loam or loamy soils
• pH level: 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Fertility: Rich in organic matter and essential nutrients

Water requirements

• Consistent moisture is crucial for good yield
• 25-30 mm of water per week

Pro Tip: If your soil is heavy clay, consider adding sand and organic matter to improve drainage and aeration. 

This will promote better root development and prevent waterlogging.

Land Preparation

You need to do a good job here. Land preparation is the foundation of your agribusiness. So make sure to prepare your land properly.

Let’s look at other aspects involved in land preparation.

1. Clearing and plowing

• Remove weeds and crop residues
• Plow to a depth of 15-20 cm to loosen the soil

2. Harrowing

• Break up clods and level the land
• Improves soil structure and water retention

3. Soil testing

• Conduct a soil test to check pH and nutrient levels
• Adjust soil pH if necessary (lime for acidic soils, sulfur for alkaline soils)

4. Adding organic matter

• Incorporate well-rotted manure or compost (2-3 kg per square meter)
• Improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability

5. Creating raised beds or rows

• Make raised beds 10-15 cm high and 1 meter wide
• Improves drainage and soil warming

Pro Tip: If farming on a slope, create contour ridges to prevent soil erosion and conserve water. 

This is especially important for maintaining consistent moisture levels for spring onions.

Seed Selection and Nursery Management

Everything begins with seed selection. A yield depends on the quality of the seed you grow. 

This clearly explains why you must select your seed wisely.

You should also take good care of your nursery. Nursery management is important for a successful spring onion crop.

Choosing high-quality seeds

Popular varieties in Kenya:

• Evergreen Hardy White: Resistant to cold, good for year-round production
• White Lisbon: Fast-growing, mild flavor

Sources of certified seeds in Kenya

• Kenya Seed Company
• East African Seed
• Simlaw Seeds

Setting up a nursery bed

1. Prepare a fine, level seedbed
2. Mix in well-rotted compost or manure
3. Create shallow furrows 10-15 cm apart
4. Sow seeds thinly in the furrows, covering lightly with soil
5. Water gently and apply a thin layer of mulch

Nursery care

• Keep soil consistently moist
• Provide partial shade to protect seedlings
• Thin seedlings when they reach 5 cm tall

Transplanting

• Transplant when seedlings are 10-15 cm tall (usually 3-4 weeks after sowing)
• Choose a cloudy day or late afternoon for transplanting
• Space seedlings 10-15 cm apart in rows 20-30 cm apart

Pro Tip: Start your nursery in stages (every 1-2 weeks) to ensure a continuous supply of spring onions throughout the growing season. 

This staggered approach allows for consistent harvesting and market supply.

Direct Sowing vs. Transplanting

Spring onions can be grown using two main methods: direct sowing and transplanting. Each has its advantages and considerations.

Direct Sowing

• Seeds are planted directly in the field where they will grow to maturity
• Advantages

• Less labor-intensive
• No transplant shock
• Suitable for large-scale production
• Disadvantages

• Higher seed requirement
• More vulnerable to pests and diseases in the early stages
• This may result in uneven growth

Transplanting

• Seedlings are first grown in nursery beds, then transplanted to the field
• Advantages

• More efficient use of seeds
• Better control over early growth conditions
• Allows for selection of strongest seedlings
• Disadvantages

• More labor-intensive
• Potential transplant shock
• Requires additional space for nursery

Ideal spacing

• Between plants: 10-15 cm
• Between rows: 20-30 cm

Best practices for healthy growth

• Water thoroughly after transplanting or directly sowing
• Apply a light mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Monitor closely for signs of stress or pest issues in the first few weeks

Pro Tip: For small-scale farmers, a combination of both methods can be beneficial. 

Start with transplants for an earlier harvest, while direct sowing a portion of your crop for succession planting.

Planting Spring Onions

I’ll talk about the importance of planting onions properly. Do you want a bumper harvest?

Well, the secret is simple. Just plant your spring onions properly.

Look at all aspects involved.

Optimal planting time

• In Kenya, spring onions can be planted year-round with proper management
• For rainfed farming, align planting with the onset of rains (March-April or October-November)
• For irrigated farming, you can plant at any time, avoiding extremely hot or cold periods

Spacing

• Plant seedlings or sow seeds 10-15 cm apart within rows
• Leave 20-30 cm between rows
• This spacing allows for good air circulation and easy management

Watering after planting

• Water thoroughly immediately after planting to ensure good soil contact
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Weed control

• Apply organic mulch (e.g., straw, dried grass) around plants
• Benefits: moisture conservation, weed suppression, temperature regulation
• Manual weeding in the first few weeks is crucial for establishing healthy plants

Pro Tip: If you’re new to spring onion farming, start with a small plo. For example, 1/8 acre to gain experience before scaling up. 

This allows you to learn the intricacies of the crop without overwhelming risk.

Fertilization and Nutrient Management

Apply the right fertilizer and in right quantities. Remember, proper nutrition is important for healthy plants and producing high-quality spring onions.

Recommended fertilizers

1. Base fertilizer (before planting)

• Well-decomposed manure or compost (2-3 kg per square meter)
• Phosphorus-rich fertilizers like DAP (Diammonium Phosphate)

2. Top dressing

• Nitrogen-rich fertilizers like CAN (Calcium Ammonium Nitrate) 3-4 weeks after planting

Organic alternatives

• Compost: Rich in nutrients and improves soil structure
• Vermicompost: Excellent source of balanced nutrients
• Fish emulsion: Quick-acting liquid fertilizer, rich in nitrogen

Fertilizer application timing

• Before planting: Incorporate base fertilizer into the soil
• 3-4 weeks after planting: Apply first top dressing
• Subsequent top dressing every 2-3 weeks until 2 weeks before harvest

Importance of balanced fertilization

• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to soft, overly leafy growth
• Ensure adequate phosphorus for strong root development
• Potassium helps improve overall plant health and stress resistance

Pro Tip: Use foliar feeding with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks to supplement soil fertilization. 

This can help address minor nutrient deficiencies quickly.

Irrigation and Water Management

Make sure you irrigate your water consistently. 

Consistent irrigation makes your spring onion grow well and produce high-quality bulbs.

Importance of water management

• Ensures steady growth and prevents stress
• Critical for maintaining tender, flavorful shoots
• Helps prevent bolting (premature flowering)

Irrigation methods

1. Drip irrigation: Benefits

• Water conservation (up to 50% less water use compared to furrow irrigation)
• Reduced disease pressure by keeping foliage dry
• Precise water delivery to the root zone

2. Furrow irrigation

• Suitable for small-scale farmers
• Cost-effective but less water-efficient
• Requires proper land leveling for even water distribution

Watering frequency

• Young plants: Light, daily watering
• Established plants: Deep watering 2-3 times a week
• Adjust based on weather conditions and soil type

Water requirements

• 25-30 mm of water per week throughout the growing season
• Increase slightly during hot, dry periods

Pro Tip: Install a simple rain gauge or soil moisture sensor to help determine when to irrigate and how much water to apply. 

This can prevent both under-watering and over-watering, which are common issues in spring onion farming.

Pest and Disease Management

Pest and disease control are extremely important. Pests can lower your yield if not careful. They can make you lose your investment overnight.

Look at the common pests and diseases. 

Common pests

1. Thrips

• Identification: Tiny insects that cause silvery patches on leaves
• Control: Use of blue sticky traps, neem-based insecticides

2. Onion maggots

• Identification: Small white maggots that feed on roots and stems
• Control: Crop rotation, soil solarization, beneficial nematodes

3. Aphids

• Identification: Small, soft-bodied insects clustered on new growth
• Control: Insecticidal soaps, ladybugs as natural predators

Major diseases

1. Downy mildew

• Symptoms: Yellow patches on leaves, grayish-purple mold
• Prevention: Good air circulation, avoiding overhead irrigation
• Control: Copper-based fungicides, removing infected plants

2. Purple blotch

• Symptoms: Purple lesions on leaves
• Prevention: Crop rotation, proper spacing
• Control: Fungicide application, removing infected plant material

3. Fusarium rot

• Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, rotting stems
• Prevention: Use of disease-free seeds, crop rotation
• Control: Soil solarization, removing and destroying infected plants

Preventive measures

• Use resistant varieties when available
• Practice crop rotation (avoid planting onions or related crops in the same area for 2-3 years)
• Maintain proper plant spacing for good air circulation
• Keep the field clean of debris and weeds

Pro Tip: Implement an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program that combines cultural, biological, and chemical control methods for sustainable pest management. 

Regular scouting of your field can help catch issues early before they become major problems.

Weed Management

Just like pests and diseases, weeds should be avoided at all costs. They steal valuable nutrients that are meant for your crops.

So weed management reduces competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight. It also prevents weeds from harboring pests and diseases.

In addition, weed management improves air circulation around plants.

Effective weed management techniques.

Manual weeding

• The most common method for small-scale farmers
• Be gentle to avoid damaging shallow spring onion roots
• Most crucial in the first 4-6 weeks after planting

Mulching

• Apply organic mulch (e.g., straw, dried grass) around plants
• Benefits: Suppresses weed growth, conserves soil moisture, regulates soil temperature
• Apply mulch after plants are established (about 2-3 weeks after planting)

Herbicide options

• For large-scale farmers, pre-emergence herbicides can be used
• Post-emergence herbicides should be used with caution to avoid crop damage
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations

Organic weed control methods

• Crop rotation to disrupt weed life cycles
• Use of cover crops between seasons to suppress weed growth
• Flame weeding for row crops (requires special equipment)

Pro Tip: Implement a “stale seedbed” technique by preparing the bed 2-3 weeks before planting, allowing weeds to germinate, then removing them before planting your spring onions. 

This can significantly reduce weed pressure during the critical early growth stage.

Crop Management

As you may be aware, proper crop management promotes healthy plants and produces higher yields.

What are these effective crop management techniques?

Well, there are many. But let’s look at the best ones.

Pruning or thinning

• Remove yellowing or diseased leaves promptly
• Thin out overcrowded plants to improve air circulation
• Use thinned plants as early harvest or for replanting

Maintaining plant spacing

• Ensure plants maintain 10-15 cm spacing as they grow
• Remove any volunteers (self-seeded plants) that disrupt spacing

Regular monitoring

• Walk through your field at least twice a week
• Check for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies
• Monitor soil moisture levels and adjust irrigation as needed

Soil management

• Lightly cultivate soil between rows to improve aeration
• Be careful not to disturb shallow roots
• Top up mulch as needed to maintain 2-3 cm thickness

Pro Tip: Keep a detailed crop management diary. Record planting dates, fertilizer applications, pest issues, and harvests. 

This information will be invaluable for improving your practices season after season.

Harvesting Spring Onions

If you do the right thing in this area, you will produce high-quality spring onions and continue producing it for a long time.

Time to maturity

• Spring onions are typically ready for harvest 2-3 months after planting
• Harvest when plants reach 30-40 cm in height and stems are 1-2 cm in diameter

Signs of Harvest Readiness

• Bright green, upright leaves
• White to pale green stems
• No signs of bolting (flower stalk formation)

Harvesting techniques

1. Gently loosen the soil around the plants with a fork
2. Pull plants straight up, holding them near the base
3. Shake off excess soil without damaging roots
4. For continuous production, harvest every other plant, allowing others to grow larger

Post-harvest handling

• Rinse plants gently to remove soil
• Trim roots to about 1 cm in length
• Remove any yellowed or damaged outer leaves
• Bundle 8-12 plants together for market sale

Pro Tip: For the freshest product, harvest spring onions in the cool morning hours. 

If selling to local markets, harvest just before market day to ensure maximum freshness and appeal to customers.

Post-Harvest Handling and Storage

Did you know that post-harvest handling is important? Proper harvest handling maintains the quality and extends the shelf life of your spring onions.

Let’s look at what is involved in this area.

Cleaning and preparation

1. Gently wash spring onions in cool, clean water to remove soil
2. Trim roots to about 1 cm in length
3. Remove any yellowed or damaged outer leaves
4. Pat dry or use a salad spinner to remove excess water

Sorting and grading

• Sort based on size and quality
• Remove any damaged or diseased plants
• Group into uniform bundles for consistent pricing

Temporary storage

• Store in a cool, shaded area immediately after harvest
• Ideal temperature: 0-2°C (32-36°F)
• Relative humidity: 95-100%
• Use perforated plastic bags or containers to maintain humidity while allowing air circulation

Transportation

• Use clean, ventilated crates for transportation
• Avoid overpacking to prevent crushing
• Transport during cooler hours of the day if possible
• For longer distances, consider using refrigerated transport

Pro Tip: If you don’t have access to cold storage, you can create a simple evaporative cooler using wet burlap sacks and a shaded, well-ventilated area. 

This can help maintain freshness for an extra day or two.

Marketing Spring Onions

Spring onions are in high demand in urban markets. So marketing this type of onion will not be a big deal.

Major markets in Kenya

• Wakulima Market, Nairobi
• Kongowea Market, Mombasa
• Wholesale markets in major towns (Nakuru, Eldoret)

Value addition opportunities

• Pre-packaged, cleaned spring onions for supermarkets
• Chopped and frozen spring onions for the food service industry
• Dried spring onion flakes for seasoning mixes

Pricing strategies

• Monitor market prices regularly
• Consider premium pricing for organic or high-quality produce
• Offer bulk discounts for large orders

Direct sales vs. contract farming

• Direct sales at local markets offer higher margins but require more time
• Contract farming with hotels or supermarkets provides stable income but may have stricter quality requirements

Pro Tip: Build relationships with multiple buyers to reduce dependency on a single market channel. 

This helps mitigate risk and can lead to better price negotiations.

Costs and Profitability of Spring Onion Farming in Kenya

Let’s do some calculations to see how much a farmer can earn.

Breakdown of costs (per acre)

1. Land preparation: KES 5,000 – 8,000
2. Seeds/Seedlings: KES 10,000 – 15,000
3. Fertilizers: KES 15,000 – 20,000
4. Pesticides and fungicides: KES 8,000 – 12,000
5. Labor (planting to harvest): KES 30,000 – 40,000
6. Irrigation: KES 10,000 – 15,000 (varies based on method)
7. Post-harvest handling: KES 5,000 – 8,000

Total cost is approximately KES 83,000 – 118,000 per acre

Yield estimates

• Average yield: 8,000 – 12,000 bundles per acre
• Each bundle contains 8-12 plants

Market price estimates

• Local market: KES 20 – 40 per bundle (varies seasonally)
• Premium markets (e.g., high-end restaurants): KES 50 – 80 per bundle

Profitability analysis: Assuming an average yield of 10,000 bundles per acre and an average price of KES 30 per bundle.

Gross Revenue: 10,000 bundles x KES 30 = KES 300,000 Total Costs: KES 118,000 (using the higher end of our estimate) Net Profit: KES 182,000 per acre

Return on Investment (ROI) = (Net Profit / Total Costs) x 100 = (182,000 / 118,000) x 100 = 154%

This indicates a potentially high return on investment, making spring onion farming an attractive venture.

Pro Tip: Start with a smaller area. For example, 1/4 acre to gain experience and minimize initial investment risks. Reinvest profits to expand gradually.

Challenges in Spring Onion Farming in Kenya

Spring onion farming is profitable. But it has potential challenges.

Let’s explore some of these challenges.

Pests and diseases

• Challenge: Thrips, onion maggots, and diseases like downy mildew can impact yields
• Management: Implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM), use resistant varieties, practice crop rotation

Weather-related challenges

• Challenge: Unpredictable rainfall, drought, or excessive heat can affect crop growth
• Management: Use of irrigation systems, mulching, and consideration of protected cultivation (e.g., shade nets)

Price volatility

• Challenge: Spring onion prices can fluctuate based on supply and demand
• Management: Diversify market channels, consider contract farming, and plan production to target high-price seasons

Post-harvest losses

• Challenge: Spring onions are highly perishable
• Management: Invest in proper post-harvest handling techniques, improve storage conditions, and ensure quick market delivery

Access to quality seeds and inputs

• Challenge: Counterfeit seeds and adulterated inputs can lead to crop failure
• Management: Source from reputable suppliers, consider joining farmer groups for bulk purchasing

Pro Tip: Join a local farmers’ association to share experiences, pool resources, and advocate for supportive policies in the vegetable farming sector.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

I advise new farmers to adopt sustainable practices in spring onion farming. These practices are good for the environment.

They also improve your farm’s viability.

Sustainable farming techniques

1. Organic farming

• Use of organic fertilizers and pesticides
• Benefits: Improved soil health, reduced environmental impact, potential for premium pricing

2. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• Combining biological, cultural, and chemical control methods
• Benefits: Reduced pesticide use, better pest control, cost savings

3. Water conservation

• Drip irrigation systems
• Mulching to reduce evaporation
• Rainwater harvesting
• Benefits: Water conservation, reduced costs, improved crop health

4. Soil conservation

• Crop rotation to maintain soil fertility
• Minimum tillage practices
• Cover cropping between seasons
• Benefits: Improved soil structure, reduced erosion, enhanced fertility

Reducing environmental impact

• Proper disposal of chemical containers and unused pesticides
• Use of bio-pesticides and natural predators for pest control
• Composting farm waste to reduce landfill impact and create natural fertilizer

Pro Tip: Consider getting organic certification for your spring onion farm. 

While it requires an initial investment, it opens up premium markets and increases your profits in the long run.

Future Outlook for Spring Onion Farming in Kenya

The future of spring onion farming in Kenya looks bright. It has several promising trends and opportunities.

There is growing interest in fresh, locally sourced produce. This increase in health consciousness has been driving the local demand.

Export potential

• Opportunities in East African Community (EAC) countries
• Growing demand in Middle Eastern countries for fresh herbs and vegetables
• Potential for air-freighted exports to European markets

Technological innovations

• Precision farming techniques for optimal resource use
• Improved seed varieties with better yield and disease resistance
• Greenhouse and hydroponic systems for year-round production

Government and private sector initiatives

• Focus on horticulture as a key area for agricultural growth
• Investments in irrigation infrastructure
• Support for value addition and agro-processing

Opportunities for scaling and enhancing profitability

• Value addition through processing (e.g., pre-packaged, ready-to-use spring onions)
• Adoption of protected cultivation for off-season production
• Exploration of organic farming for premium markets

Pro Tip: Stay informed about emerging agricultural technologies and market trends. 

Even small-scale farmers can benefit from simple tech solutions like smartphone apps for pest identification or market price information.

Actionable Tips for Getting Started

1. Seed Selection

• Start with proven varieties like Evergreen Hardy White or White Lisbon
• Source seeds from reputable suppliers like Kenya Seed Company or East African Seed
• Consider hybrid varieties for better disease resistance and yield

2. Irrigation Practices

• Invest in a simple drip irrigation system from the start
• Install a water tank for consistent supply during dry spells
• Use mulch to conserve soil moisture and reduce water needs

3. Market Research

• Visit local markets and supermarkets to understand pricing and demand
• Connect with restaurants and hotels to learn about their spring onion needs
• Join local farmer groups or cooperatives for market information and collective bargaining power

Start small and grow your business as you gain experience and market share. You could be Kenya’s next spring onion farmer success story!