Garlic, commonly known as Kitunguu Saumu in Kenya, is a high-value horticultural crop widely cultivated in regions such as Nakuru, Meru, and Narok. With its rising demand both locally and internationally, garlic farming presents an excellent opportunity for Kenyan farmers.
Popular Varieties of Garlic in Kenya
- Softneck Garlic: The most commonly grown variety, known for its adaptability and high yield.
- Hardneck Garlic: Less common but favored for its flavor and ability to withstand cold conditions.
- Elephant Garlic: Larger cloves and milder flavor, grown for niche markets.
Ecological Requirements for Garlic Farming
Garlic thrives in the following conditions:
- Temperature: 12-24°C.
- Altitude: 500-2000m above sea level.
- Rainfall: Performs well in areas with low rainfall.
- Soil: Deep, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5-6.8.
Propagation and Planting
Seed Cloves
Garlic is propagated using seed cloves. Farmers are advised to purchase certified seed cloves from reputable dealers. For one acre, 200-300kg of seed cloves are required.
Planting Process:
- Dig trenches about 25cm deep.
- Sow single garlic cloves with the root end facing down and the pointed end facing up.
- Cover the cloves with soil.
- Space rows 60cm apart and water lightly to avoid rotting.
Mulching
Protect garlic seeds from harsh conditions by applying a thick layer of mulch. This helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weed growth.
Farm Management Practices
- Irrigation: Avoid overwatering to prevent rotting; moderate irrigation is sufficient.
- Weeding: Keep the field weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor and manage common pests such as thrips and diseases like white rot using recommended pesticides and fungicides.
Harvesting Garlic
Garlic matures in 4 to 6 months, depending on the variety and climatic conditions.
Harvesting Guidelines:
- Observe the foliage for browning, which signals readiness for harvesting.
- After harvesting, allow the garlic to dry for about 3 weeks in a well-ventilated room.
Yield: One acre can produce up to 5,000kg of garlic, depending on the variety and conditions.
Market for Garlic in Kenya
Garlic enjoys high demand in Kenya, with prices fluctuating based on the season:
- High Demand (May-September): Ksh 300 per kilo.
- Low Demand: Ksh 150 per kilo.
Garlic can be sold in:
- Open-air markets
- Supermarkets and grocery stores
- Institutions: Schools, hospitals, hotels, and restaurants.
Garlic farming in Kenya offers high returns, making it an ideal crop for farmers looking to diversify their agribusiness ventures. With proper planning and farm management practices, garlic farming can be both profitable and sustainable.
