The 10 Most Profitable Onion Variety In Kenya

Onion farming in Kenya has become increasingly popular due to the high demand for onions in the country and in the international market. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, onions are one of the top five most traded vegetables in Kenya, and the country exports about 10% of its onion production to neighboring countries such as Uganda and Tanzania.

One of the reasons why onion farming is profitable in Kenya is because onions have a high yield per acre compared to other crops. For instance, with the right variety and farming techniques, farmers can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. This high yield potential translates to higher profits for farmers.

Another factor that contributes to the profitability of onion farming is the high demand for onions in the Kenyan market. Onions are a staple ingredient in most Kenyan households, making them a must-have crop for farmers. Additionally, the high demand for onions in the international market means that farmers can earn more by exporting their produce.

To achieve maximum profitability, farmers need to invest in good farming practices such as proper land preparation, irrigation, fertilization, and disease control. They also need to choose the right variety of onions that are suited for their area and target market. This is where the list of the ten most profitable onion varieties in Kenya comes in handy.

1. Jambar F1 Onion Variety

The Jambar F1 Onion variety is one of the most profitable onion varieties in Kenya. This variety is known for its uniformity in size, high yield, and disease resistance. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The Jambar F1 Onion variety is ideal for both small-scale and large-scale farming.

It is a hybrid variety that is bred through a cross between two different onion varieties to produce a plant with desirable traits.

This onion variety is suitable for farmers who are looking for high yields and good quality onions. The Jambar F1 Onion Variety takes approximately three months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. It is also resistant to diseases such as purple blotch and fusarium wilt, which are common onion diseases in Kenya.

The Jambar F1 Onion Variety produces large, round bulbs that are attractive and have a sweet flavor. The bulbs are uniform in size and shape, making them easy to market. Additionally, this variety has a long shelf life, which makes it ideal for storage and transportation.

To grow the Jambar F1 Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

2. Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety

The Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety is another profitable variety in Kenya. This variety is known for its deep red color, which makes it a favorite among consumers. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The Red Pinnoy F1 Onion variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the high-end market.

This hybrid variety is a cross between two different onion varieties, resulting in a plant with desirable traits such as high yield potential, disease resistance, and good storage qualities.

The Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are uniform in size and shape, making them easy to market. This variety is also resistant to diseases such as downy mildew and purple blotch, which are common onion diseases in Kenya.

One of the unique features of the Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety is its red color. This makes it an attractive choice for farmers who want to target the gourmet market, where the demand for colorful vegetables is high. The red color of the bulbs is due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are natural pigments that also provide health benefits to consumers.

To grow the Red Pinnoy F1 Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

3. Bombay Red Onion Variety

The Bombay Red Onion Variety is a profitable variety that is grown in Kenya. This variety is known for its long shelf life, making it a favorite among traders. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The Bombay Red Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the export market.

It is an open-pollinated variety, meaning that it can be grown from seeds produced by the parent plant.

This variety takes approximately 120-150 days to mature and can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are large and round, with a diameter of up to 10 cm, making them attractive and easy to market. The Bombay Red Onion Variety is also known for its strong flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a robust onion taste.

The Bombay Red Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target the local market, where the demand for large and flavorful onions is high. It is also a good option for farmers who want to store their onions for an extended period, as this variety has good storage qualities.

To grow the Bombay Red Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the challenges of growing the Bombay Red Onion Variety is its susceptibility to diseases such as downy mildew and purple blotch. Farmers should, therefore, practice good disease management practices such as crop rotation, use of disease-free seeds, and timely application of fungicides to prevent and control the spread of diseases.

4. Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety

The Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety is another profitable variety in Kenya. This variety is known for its high yield and resistance to diseases. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the local market.

It is an open-pollinated variety that is widely grown in the United States and other countries with a similar climate to Kenya.

This variety takes approximately 110-120 days to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are large and round, with a diameter of up to 15 cm, making them attractive and easy to market. The Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety is also known for its sweet flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a mild onion taste.

The Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target the local market, where the demand for large, sweet onions is high. It is also a good option for farmers who want to store their onions for an extended period, as this variety has good storage qualities.

To grow the Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the challenges of growing the Texas Grano 502 Onion Variety is its susceptibility to diseases such as downy mildew and purple blotch. Farmers should, therefore, practice good disease management practices such as crop rotation, use of disease-free seeds, and timely application of fungicides to prevent and control the spread of diseases.

5. Red Passion F1 Onion Variety

The Red Passion F1 Onion Variety is a profitable variety that is grown in Kenya. This variety is known for its deep red color and high yield. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 35 tonnes per acre. The Red Passion F1 Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the high-end market.

It is known for its beautiful red color, strong flavor, and firm bulbs.

This variety takes approximately 120-150 days to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are large and round, with a diameter of up to 8 cm, making them attractive and easy to market. The Red Passion F1 Onion Variety is also known for its strong flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a robust onion taste.

The Red Passion F1 Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target the local market, where the demand for large and flavorful onions is high. It is also a good option for farmers who want to reduce their production costs, as this variety is resistant to common onion diseases such as downy mildew and purple blotch, reducing the need for expensive chemical treatments.

To grow the Red Passion F1 Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the advantages of growing the Red Passion F1 Onion Variety is its excellent disease resistance, reducing the need for costly chemical treatments. However, farmers should still practice good disease management practices such as crop rotation and use of disease-free seeds to prevent and control the spread of diseases.

6. Early Texas Grano Onion Variety

The Early Texas Grano Onion Variety is a profitable variety that is grown in Kenya. This variety is known for its high yield and early maturity. It takes approximately three months to mature and can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The Early Texas Grano Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the local market.

It is an open-pollinated variety that is widely grown in the United States and other countries with a similar climate to Kenya.

This variety takes approximately 100-110 days to mature, making it an excellent choice for farmers who want to harvest their onions early and get their produce to the market before the peak season. The bulbs are large and round, with a diameter of up to 15 cm, making them attractive and easy to market. The Early Texas Grano Onion Variety is also known for its sweet flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a mild onion taste.

The Early Texas Grano Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target the local market, where the demand for large, sweet onions is high. It is also a good option for farmers who want to avoid peak season competition and get their produce to the market early.

To grow the Early Texas Grano Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the challenges of growing the Early Texas Grano Onion Variety is its susceptibility to diseases such as downy mildew and purple blotch. Farmers should, therefore, practice good disease management practices such as crop rotation, use of disease-free seeds, and timely application of fungicides to prevent and control the spread of diseases.

7. Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety

The Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety is another profitable variety in Kenya. This variety is known for its deep red color and high yield. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the high-end market.

It is known for its deep red color, strong flavor, and high yields, making it a profitable onion variety to grow.

This variety takes approximately 120-150 days to mature, and it can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are round, with a diameter of up to 8 cm, and they have a deep red color, making them attractive and easy to market. The Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety is also known for its strong flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a robust onion taste.

The Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target both the local and international markets. The deep red color of the bulbs is highly sought after in the international market, where it is used in various culinary dishes. This variety is also resistant to common onion diseases such as downy mildew, purple blotch, and Fusarium, reducing the need for expensive chemical treatments and increasing profitability.

To grow the Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the advantages of growing the Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety is its excellent disease resistance, reducing the need for costly chemical treatments. This variety is also tolerant to various environmental conditions such as heat and drought, making it an excellent choice for farmers in different agro-ecological zones.

8. Red Creole Onion Variety

The Red Creole Onion Variety is a profitable variety that is grown in Kenya. This variety is known for its deep red color and resistance to diseases. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The Red Creole Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the export market.

It is a hybrid onion variety that is widely grown in various agro-ecological zones in the country.

This variety takes approximately 100-120 days to mature, and it can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are round, with a diameter of up to 7cm, and they have a deep red color, making them attractive and easy to market. The Red Creole Onion Variety is also known for its mild flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a subtle onion taste.

The Red Creole Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target the local market, where the demand for mild-flavored onions is high. It is also a good option for farmers who want to avoid diseases that commonly affect onion crops in Kenya. This variety is highly resistant to various onion diseases, such as downy mildew, purple blotch, and Fusarium, reducing the need for expensive chemical treatments and increasing profitability.

To grow the Red Creole Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the advantages of growing the Red Creole Onion Variety is its excellent disease resistance, reducing the need for costly chemical treatments. This variety is also tolerant to various environmental conditions such as heat and drought, making it an excellent choice for farmers in different agro-ecological zones.

9. Red Grano Onion Variety

The Red Grano Onion Variety is another profitable variety in Kenya. This variety is known for its deep red color and high yield. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The Red Grano Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the high-end market.

It is known for its large size, mild flavor, and excellent storage quality, making it a profitable onion variety to grow.

This variety takes approximately 110-130 days to mature, and it can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are large, with a diameter of up to 10cm, and they have a deep red color, making them attractive and easy to market. The Red Grano Onion Variety is also known for its mild flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a subtle onion taste.

The Red Grano Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target both the local and international markets. The large size of the bulbs makes them ideal for export to international markets, where they are used in various culinary dishes. This variety is also known for its excellent storage quality, which allows farmers to store the bulbs for up to six months without losing quality or flavor.

To grow the Red Grano Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the advantages of growing the Red Grano Onion Variety is its excellent storage quality, which allows farmers to store the bulbs for up to six months without losing quality or flavor. This variety is also tolerant to various environmental conditions such as heat and drought, making it an excellent choice for farmers in different agro-ecological zones.

10. Bombay White Onion Variety

The Bombay White Onion Variety is a profitable variety that is grown in Kenya. This variety is known for its mild flavor and long shelf life, making it a favorite among traders. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The Bombay White Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the export market.

It is known for its attractive white color, mild flavor, and excellent storage quality, making it a profitable onion variety to grow.

This variety takes approximately 120-150 days to mature, and it can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The bulbs are round, with a diameter of up to 7cm, and they have a bright white color, making them attractive and easy to market. The Bombay White Onion Variety is also known for its mild flavor, which makes it popular in dishes that require a subtle onion taste.

The Bombay White Onion Variety is suitable for farmers who want to target both the local and international markets. The white color of the bulbs makes them ideal for export to international markets, where they are used in various culinary dishes. This variety is also known for its excellent storage quality, which allows farmers to store the bulbs for up to six months without losing quality or flavor.

To grow the Bombay White Onion Variety, farmers need to prepare the soil well by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. The plants should be spaced at least 10cm apart to allow for proper growth and to reduce competition for nutrients. Farmers should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.

One of the advantages of growing the Bombay White Onion Variety is its excellent storage quality, which allows farmers to store the bulbs for up to six months without losing quality or flavor. This variety is also tolerant to various environmental conditions such as heat and drought, making it an excellent choice for farmers in different agro-ecological zones.

In conclusion, onion farming in Kenya can be a profitable venture if done correctly. The ten onion varieties discussed above are among the most profitable onion varieties in Kenya. However, it is essential to note that the profitability of onion farming also depends on other factors such as soil type, climate, and farming techniques. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with an agricultural expert before choosing a particular onion variety for your farm. With the right variety and farming techniques, you can earn a substantial income from onion farming in Kenya.

Frequently asked questions about onion varieties in Kenya with their corresponding answers:

1. What are the different onion varieties grown in Kenya? There are several onion varieties grown in Kenya, including Red Creole, Bombay Red, Red Pinoy, Texas Grano 502, Early Texas Grano, and Jambar F1, among others.
2. Which is the most profitable onion variety to grow in Kenya? The profitability of onion varieties depends on various factors, including market demand, yield potential, and production costs. Some of the most profitable onion varieties in Kenya include Jambar F1, Red Pinoy F1, and Red Creole.
3. How long does it take for onion varieties to mature in Kenya? The time it takes for onion varieties to mature in Kenya varies depending on the variety, but generally, it takes between 100 to 150 days.
4. What is the yield potential of onion varieties in Kenya? The yield potential of onion varieties in Kenya varies depending on various factors, including soil type, climate, and farming practices. However, some onion varieties have higher yield potentials than others, such as Jambar F1 and Red Pinoy F1.
5. Which onion variety is suitable for export in Kenya? Several onion varieties in Kenya are suitable for export, including Red Grano, Bombay Red, and Bombay White.
6. Which onion variety has the best storage quality in Kenya? Several onion varieties in Kenya have good storage quality, including Red Grano, Bombay White, and Red Creole.
7. How do I choose the best onion variety to grow in Kenya? When choosing an onion variety to grow in Kenya, you need to consider various factors, including market demand, yield potential, and production costs. It’s essential to select a variety that is suitable for your farming conditions and meets market requirements.
8. How do I plant onion varieties in Kenya? To plant onion varieties in Kenya, you need to prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensuring proper drainage. You should also provide adequate irrigation and apply appropriate fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and high yields.
9. How do I manage pests and diseases in onion varieties in Kenya? Pests and diseases can be a significant challenge when growing onion varieties in Kenya. It’s essential to adopt proper farming practices, such as crop rotation, use of resistant varieties, and timely application of pesticides to manage pests and diseases effectively.
10. How do I harvest onion varieties in Kenya? To harvest onion varieties in Kenya, you need to wait until the bulbs have matured fully. You can then uproot the onions from the ground and dry them under the sun for a few days before storage.
11. How do I store onion varieties in Kenya? Onion varieties in Kenya require proper storage to maintain their quality and flavor. You can store them in a cool, dry place with good ventilation to prevent rotting and spoilage.
12. Can I grow onion varieties in greenhouses in Kenya? Yes, you can grow onion varieties in greenhouses in Kenya. This method allows farmers to control the growing environment, which can lead to higher yields and quality.
13. How much land do I need to grow onion varieties in Kenya? The land required to grow onion varieties in Kenya depends on several factors, including the variety and farming practices. However, onion farmers typically use between 0.5 to 1 acre of land.
14. Which onion variety is suitable for rainy seasons in Kenya? Several onion varieties are suitable for rainy seasons in Kenya, including Red Creole, Red Pinoy, and Bombay Red.
15. Can I grow onion varieties organically in Kenya? Yes, you can grow onion varieties organically in Kenya. Organic farming practices include the use of natural fertilizers, crop rotation, and pest control using natural methods.
16. Which onion variety has the highest demand in Kenya? The demand for onion varieties in Kenya varies depending on various factors such as season, location, and market trends. However, Red Creole, Red Pinoy, and Jambar F1 are among the onion varieties with high demand in Kenya.
17. Can I grow onion varieties in containers in Kenya? Yes, you can grow onion varieties in containers in Kenya. This method is suitable for urban farmers or farmers with limited space. However, you need to ensure the container has adequate drainage and provide sufficient nutrients and water.
18. Which onion variety is suitable for small-scale farmers in Kenya? Several onion varieties are suitable for small-scale farmers in Kenya, including Early Texas Grano, Bombay Red, and Red Creole. These varieties have high yield potential and are relatively easy to grow.
19. How do I market onion varieties in Kenya? Marketing onion varieties in Kenya requires proper planning and networking. You can sell your produce directly to consumers, restaurants, or retailers. It’s also essential to keep up with market trends and demand to ensure profitability.
20. How do I access onion varieties in Kenya? Onion varieties in Kenya are available through various seed suppliers and agricultural input stores. It’s essential to source seeds from reputable suppliers and ensure they are certified to guarantee quality and high yields.