Garlic Farming in Kenya.

How can we mention garlic without mentioning its distinctive pungent flavour and aroma in a number of worldwide cuisines?

Garlic Onions

Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum and locally known as ‘Saumu’ in Kenya is a bulbous plant that belongs to the onion family. It has a spherical or slightly elongated bulb that encloses multiples cloves in a papery white skin. The colour of the garlic cloves may vary from off-white to pale yellow in colour depending on the variety and growing conditions as well.

Garlic farming in Kenya has emerged as a promising agricultural venture offering lucrative opportunities for farmers across the country. It demand both domestically and internationally has been on the rise and is set to reach Usd 539.35 million this year. Countries such as Europe, Middle East and Asia form the basis of Kenya’s garlic export market.

Kenya’s diverse climate provides favorable conditions for garlic cultivation. Regions such as Nakuru, Nyandarua, Baringo, Laikipia, Embu, Meru, Muranga, Bomet, Narok are ideal for garlic cultivation due to their moderate temperatures and well-distributed rainfall.

Brief process for planting garlic.

Selecting garlic bulbs-Choose healthy garlic bulbs for planting. They should be firm and free from damage or disease.

Preparing the planting site-The site should be well drained with full sunlight exposure. You should loosen the soil by digging to a depth of 15 to 20cm and remove any weeds or debris on that area. Mix up the soil on the site with compost or aged manure so as to improve on the soil fertility.

Planting the garlic cloves- Carefully select the individual cloves from the garlic bulbs and plant them with the pointed end facing upward and the flat end downward. The cloves should have a spacing of about 4 to 6 inches apart in rows that are spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart. Plant the cloves to a depth of 1 to2 inches, pressing them gently in the soil.

Mulching and watering- After planting, apply a layer of mulch to the soil and water thoroughly to provide enough moisture for germination and early growth.

Garlic has a relatively short growing cycle of about six to eight months. It is typically ready for harvest when the top begins to dry and yellow. The bulbs are dug up using garden forks or trowel. The short growing cycle of garlic ensures multiple harvests in a year and creates a steady income for garlic farmers. With proper land preparation and maintenance, garlic farming can offer attractive returns due to the high yields that translate into substantial profits.

If Kenyan farmers unlock the full potential of garlic cultivation, we will be able to contribute to the country's food security and economic development.