A farmer residing in Joska, Machakos County, is counting losses after ignoring the weather patterns during the harvesting period, which led to financial losses amounting to millions.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, Grace Awour revealed that she settled on onion farming in 2019 to maximise on profits as one acre of land can yield around 40 tonnes from a 2-acre farm.
In particular, she decided to plant the Neptune breed, a high-yielding variety that produces firm red bulbs and has a high extended shelf life, lasting up to six months.
Awuor planted in September 2019, hoping the produce would yield in December that year.
Awour invested her time and money in securing the land in Joska, learning about the best management practices in onion farming and ways to acquire a profitable yield.
The farmer had already budgeted for the profit, expecting that it was a guaranteed return on investment.
Things, however, took a turn when long rains began on the first week of December 2019 and lasted for three weeks.
She lamented how she had not factored in the weather pattern despite the amount of research she had conducted.
Joska was one of the areas affected by the floods, as the government had to evacuate trapped families using helicopters. Other affected areas included Kamulu, Athi River, Muselele and Ruai.
Further, the land in Joska lacked a good drainage system, causing the water to flood and destroy the crops, thus leaving the farmer to grapple with millions that went down the drain.
"If I could reverse time, I would go for a smaller piece of land. I would rather maximise on what I have and increase production to have a continuous yield," she stated.
She also advised farmers to consult an expert if in doubt to guide them, especially when venturing into farming for the first time.
"From my perspective, you would rather specialise instead of jump from crop to crop. You will take care of your crop well when you specialise because your biggest benefit is being in the market everyday," she explained.
Awour noted that the loss made her venture into potato farming and also set up field days where she engages with other farmers on some of the best management practices.
Advice
For onions to produce better yields, 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.
