
Garlic Farming in Kenya
Garlic, locally known as Kitunguu Saumu, is a high-value crop in Kenya. Known for its rich aroma and numerous health benefits, garlic farming has become an attractive venture for farmers in Kenya. With the right knowledge, certified seed cloves, fertile soil, and proper water management, garlic farming can offer strong returns. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to start garlic farming in Kenya, from planting to harvesting and marketing.
Health Benefits of Garlic
Garlic is highly valued for its numerous health benefits, which drive its demand in Kenya and globally:
Boosts Immunity: Helps defend against bacterial and viral infections, commonly used to treat colds and flu.
Supports Heart Health: Improves blood circulation, reduces blood pressure, and lowers cholesterol levels.
Rich in Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that may inhibit cancerous tumor growth.
Garlic Varieties in Kenya
In Kenya, garlic varieties are classified into two main types:
Softneck Varieties: Commonly grown in Kenya, such as the Africa Giant, Arusha Giant, and Rwanda Giant, with white to purple colors.
Hardneck Varieties: Less common in Kenya, but well-suited to cooler climates.
Ideal Growing Regions for Garlic in Kenya
Garlic thrives in regions with low humidity, moderate rainfall, and stable temperatures. Key garlic-growing regions in Kenya include Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Machakos, Embu, Meru, Laikipia, Nakuru, Narok, Kajiado, and Bomet. These areas offer the right climate for healthy garlic growth and high yields.
Ecological Requirements for Garlic Farming
To grow garlic successfully, consider the following ecological conditions:
Climate: Garlic grows best in temperate climates, with ideal temperatures between 24°C and 30°C.
Altitude: An altitude range of 500 to 2000 meters above sea level is optimal.
Soil: Garlic thrives in well-drained, fertile loam or black cotton soil with a pH of 5.5–6.8. Testing the soil can help detect any deficiencies or soil-borne diseases.
Garlic Propagation and Planting Techniques
Garlic is grown from individual cloves, and it’s essential to source certified seed cloves to minimize pest and disease risks. Here’s a guide to planting garlic:
Field Preparation: Plough and harrow the land until fine tilth is achieved.
Soil Enrichment: Mix compost or animal manure into the soil a few days before planting for nutrient enrichment.
Planting: Space rows 25 cm apart, with cloves planted 15 cm apart within rows, root-end down.
Germination: Cloves usually germinate within 7–10 days. Ensure consistent watering and apply mulch if necessary.
Fertilizer and Manure Application for Optimal Growth
For high yields, garlic requires specific nutrients:
Before Planting: Apply organic compost or manure to provide nitrogen.
During Growth: Four weeks after planting, use organic foliar fertilizers rich in phosphate and potassium every 10 days to support leaf and bulb growth.
Watering, Mulching, and Weeding for Healthy Garlic Plants
Garlic needs regular irrigation, particularly during dry seasons. Drip irrigation is highly effective for garlic farming as it conserves water and ensures adequate soil moisture. Regular weeding minimizes competition for nutrients, and mulching with dry grass or leaves helps retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
Pest and Disease Management in Garlic Farming
Garlic naturally repels pests due to its strong aroma, but it may still encounter certain pests and diseases:
Pests: Red ants, thrips, and aphids are common pests that affect garlic.
Diseases: Leaf rust and downy mildew are prevalent garlic diseases.
Preventative measures, including regular weeding, field scouting, and sanitation, are crucial. If infestations occur, organic pesticides and fungicides can be used to protect the crop.


Harvesting and Post-Harvest Care
Garlic is typically ready for harvest around four months after planting when the leaves turn brown. Carefully dig up the plants and separate the bulbs. Curing is essential to extend garlic’s shelf life; let the bulbs dry in a warm, ventilated area for around a month. Properly cured garlic can be stored for up to six months.
Marketing and Profit Potential for Garlic in Kenya
Garlic commands high prices in Kenya, ranging from Ksh150 to Ksh250 per kilogram, with individual heads selling for Ksh10 to Ksh50. With an initial investment of around Ksh75,000 on a quarter-acre plot, farmers can yield 1.2 to 1.5 tonnes of garlic, potentially earning between Ksh120,000 and Ksh150,000. With a growing demand for garlic and much of the supply being imported, garlic farming offers a lucrative opportunity for Kenyan farmers.
Conclusion
Garlic farming in Kenya presents a profitable agribusiness for farmers who follow best practices in planting, care, and harvesting. By meeting ecological requirements and focusing on quality, farmers can achieve high yields and strong returns in the garlic market. With its health benefits, culinary value, and high demand, garlic remains a lucrative crop with the potential for significant profit for Kenyan farmers.