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garlic farming in kenya

garlic farming in kenya

Last updated on June 9th, 2023 at 08:04 pm

This article focuses on garlic farming in Kenya.

  • Garlic is a useful plant called Kitunguu Saumu.
  • It thrives in the best conditions and usually grows in areas such as Nakuru, Meru and Narok.

Types of garlic grown in Kenya


There are three types of garlic in Kenya. They understood;

  • Softneck garlic (commonly grown varieties).
  • Garlic is strong.
  • Elephant garlic.


conditions for growing garlic

The ideal temperature is between 12 and 24 degrees Celsius. 500 to 2000 m above sea level.
Works well in areas with low rainfall.

Deep, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.8.


propagation and planting

It is propagated or grown using clove seeds.

Clove seeds can be purchased from authorized seed companies or authorized dealers in the country.

200 to 300 kg of clover seed is enough per acre.

how to plant garlic:

Dig a hole about 25 cm deep and plant one clove of garlic.

The root should fall when the tip should face the hole, then cover the clove with soil.

Cloves should be planted in rows 60 cm apart.

Water the lines with a little water.

Make sure you don’t overwater the cloves so they don’t rot before they sprout.

Garlic seeds should be protected from excessive or harsh conditions by mulching.

A layer of mulch should be used.

Harvesting Garlic

Garlic takes about 4-6 months to be ready to harvest.

As a guide to harvest, you can see the calf.

Check to see if the leaves have turned brown.

After harvesting, leave the garlic dry for about three weeks.

During all that time, the garlic should be stored in a well-ventilated room.

One acre of land can produce up to 5000 kilograms of garlic depending on the variety grown and the climate.

Garlic market in Kenya


The market for garlic in the country is good because its demand is very high. When demand is high, one kilo costs Kshs 300.

It is usually from May to September.

When demand is low, one kilo is worth Kshs 150.

Garlic is sold locally in open markets, supermarkets and grocery stores.

A farmer can also provide facilities such as schools, hospitals, hotels and restaurants.

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