Tinaye Agere
Word from the Market
Cliff Chiduku
Onion is one of the most consumed vegetable crops not only in Zimbabwe, but across the globe.
Almost every meal includes onion, which makes it a vital crop. Since onions are consumed in many households in Zimbabwe, they will always be in demand.
Given this demand, coupled with the relative ease of cultivating the vegetable, onion production presents an opportunity that farmers need to exploit. In Zimbabwe, production is usually conducted in winter. The sowing period often runs from February to April, but it can be extended in areas where there is enough water. Onions usually thrive in a temperate climate with moderate rainfall and temperatures.
In Zimbabwe, onions can be grown in most regions, but the cooler areas such as those in Manicaland province are particularly suitable. Onion seeds can be sown directly into the field or started in seedbeds, whichever is convenient to the farmer. For direct sowing, plant seeds in rows spaced 30 centimetres (cm) apart, with seeds placed 1cm to 2cm deep, and between 10cm and 15cm apart. If you start with seedbeds, transplant seedlings into the field when they are about 10cm tall. Spacing of 30cm between rows and 10cm to 15cm between plants should be maintained. Farmers are encouraged to transplant seedlings in the morning or late afternoon to reduce transplanting shock.
After transplanting, farmers should ensure that seedlings are well-watered. They should also firm the soil around the plants to eliminate air pockets. Before planting, farmers should apply an appropriate basal fertiliser at a rate of 500kg per hectare. This helps provide essential nutrients that support growth of the plant.
The application of manure or compost to further enrich the soil can be a cheaper way of managing soil nutrient composition. It is also crucial for farmers to choose the correct variety depending on the soil type and the local climate.
Varieties such as Red Creole and White Creole are popular in Zimbabwe.
Ensure seeds are certified and free from diseases. New varieties from local companies, such as “Capricorn” from National Tested Seeds and “Goblin” from Charter Seeds, have taken the market by storm.
These varieties allow farmers to plant onions off the normal growing season. They can plant them towards the end of the year, around November to December.
Short-day varieties are either fresh or drying onions, depending on the genetics. Plant population ranges from 650 000 to 900 000 per hectare, depending on spacing and other production considerations. Plant population influences bulb size and, therefore, the final yield. Consumers generally prefer medium-sized bulbs. Dried onions can be kept for six months, depending on the variety’s shelf life and storage facilities.
Just like any other crop, onions require consistent moisture for optimal growth. Farmers should water the crops regularly and ensure the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged. During dry periods, increase the frequency of watering to prevent moisture stress.
Weed control is also crucial to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
Common pests affecting the crop include onion thrips, aphids and cutworms.
The use of appropriate insecticides or natural predators to manage these pests is recommended. Diseases such as downy mildew and bacterial rot can be controlled by practising good crop rotation, avoiding overhead irrigation and applying fungicides as needed.
Farmers can store their harvest for half a year in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.
Mesh bags or crates can be used to prevent moisture build-up.
Proper storage can extend the shelf life and prevent spoilage. Locally, mass markets such as Mbare Musika, other established vegetable markets and supermarkets can push volumes.
Farmers should also consider export markets, such as neighbouring Botswana, to sell their onions. Proper packaging and grading can enhance marketability and ensure a fair price for the produce.
Post-harvest losses are common in onion production due to inadequate drying facilities on most farms. In light of this predicament amongst many onion farmers, the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) is working on the creation of aggregation centres equipped with cold chain facilities and drying facilities.
It is expected that this intervention will go a long way in adding value to onion production and also quality of the produce.
Onion production in Zimbabwe is a viable agricultural venture. By selecting the right site, preparing the soil, following effective planting and crop management practices, and managing pests and diseases, farmers can achieve good yields. Post-harvest handling and strategic marketing further contribute to the success of the onion farming endeavour. With the right approach, onion farming can be a profitable and rewarding agricultural pursuit in Zimbabwe.
Word from the Market is a column produced by AMA to promote market-driven production of agricultural crops. Feedback: [email protected] or WhatsApp +263781706212.
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