Onion farming is a profitable venture and if done correctly, a farmer can make up to Sh800,000 per acre after three months.
However, the yield per acre is highly determined by the onion variety planted. Hybrid varieties give a high yield per acre and are the most suitable for commercial onion farming.
Neptune F1 is one of the high-yielding onion varieties that can give a farmer a decent income.
The onion variety has a high demand in the market thanks to its superior characteristics, such as good taste and a long shelf life of up to six months.
Sold by Amiran Kenya, this variety can yield above 15 tonnes in 90-120 days after transplanting and is adaptable to most dry and wet weather.
Six most profitable crops per acre that have made several Kenyans millionaires
Furthermore, it has uniform medium bulbs loved by most buyers and a very good deep red internal colour.
According to Grace Awuor, an onion farmer in Machakos County, for a farmer to get the desired onion yields, they should farm them in well-drained soil and expose them to sunlight for at least six hours per day.
”Water them regularly and apply fertilizer, as advised by experts, every few weeks to boost their growth. You can also utilize organic matter such as mulch or compost manure. Spread your onions to avoid overcrowding and enhance their growth.’’ Says Awuor.
This onion variety is suitable for farmers who are looking for high yields and good-quality onions. The Neptune F1 Onion Variety takes approximately three months to mature.
It has also shown a strong resistance to Pink root disease. When planting, 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.
