A Glimpse into the World of Garlic Farming.

Garlic farming is becoming more popular in Kenya and for a good reason. Garlic is in high demand in local markets, restaurants and even for export. It is known for its strong flavour and health benefits, making it a valuable crop for farmers looking to make good returns. But what does it really take to get started?

To begin garlic farming, you will need a small piece of land, quality garlic seeds (also called cloves), farm tools and some basic knowledge of soil health. One acre of land can cost anywhere from KES 80,000 to KES 120,000 to prepare and plant, depending on the area and whether you are renting or own the land. You will also need to factor in costs for irrigation, fertilizers and labour. Most garlic types take about 5 to 6 months to mature and with proper care, farmers can make a decent profit sometimes more than KES 500,000 per acre in a good season.

   

As the garlic market grows, so does the need for traceability. Buyers today want to know where their food comes from, how it was grown and whether it is safe to eat. Traceability helps track the entire journey of the garlic from the farm to the market. If you can prove your garlic is grown responsibly, without harmful chemicals and meets certain standards, you will likely attract better buyers and higher prices. It also protects farmers by building trust and reducing the risk of market rejection.

In the end, garlic farming is not just about growing a crop; it is about growing a business, and, in this business, traceability could be the difference between being just another farmer or becoming a trusted supplier in a growing industry.