Long rains 2026 Kenya:What to plant by county and agroecological zone
Kenya's long rains (March–June 2026) are the primary planting window for over 70 percent of smallholder farmers. The decisions made in the first two weeks of March determine household food security and farm income for the next six months. This guide provides ShambaIQ's county-specific recommendations calibrated against soil data and historical rainfall patterns.
Kenya's long rains (March–June 2026) are the primary planting window for over 70 percent of smallholder farmers. The decisions made in the first two weeks of March determine household food security and farm income for the next six months. This guide provides ShambaIQ's county-specific recommendations calibrated against soil data and historical rainfall patterns.
What to plant by agroecological zone \u2014 long rains 2026
| Zone | Counties | Onset window | Primary crops | Intercrop option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highland (> 1,800m) | Nyandarua, Nyeri upper, Meru upper | Late March–April | Potato, Wheat, Maize (H614D) | Beans after potato |
| Upper Midland | Nakuru, U. Gishu, Trans Nzoia | Late March–Early April | Maize (DK8031), Wheat | Maize + beans intercrop |
| Midland (1,200–1,500m) | Kakamega, Nandi, Kisii, Embu | Early–Mid April | Maize (DK777), Beans, Tea | Maize + beans intercrop |
| Lower Midland | Machakos, Makueni highland | Mid March–April | Maize (DUMA 43), Sorghum | Maize + cowpea |
| Semi-Arid | Kitui, Kajiado, Baringo lower | When rains arrive | Sorghum, Cowpeas, Green grams | Sorghum + pigeon peas |
| Coastal | Kilifi, Kwale, Mombasa | March 15–20 | Cassava, Cowpeas, Coconut | Cassava + cowpea |
Pre-season preparation checklist
Check soil pH with ShambaIQ — 4 weeks before planting
If liming is needed, it must be done 3–4 weeks before planting. Checking pH on planting day means it is too late for the current season.
Buy certified seed from KEPHIS-registered agrovets
Counterfeit seed is rampant before planting season. Buy from known dealers, check packaging hologram, and verify lot numbers against KEPHIS database.
Apply lime if pH below 5.8 for maize or 5.5 for beans
Lime incorporated 3–4 weeks before planting ensures pH correction has begun before seed goes in. Late lime application produces no benefit in the current season.
Prepare zai pits or tied ridges in ASAL zones
Water harvesting structures must be ready before rains arrive. Building them during the rains wastes the first critical rainfall events — often the most reliable of the season.
Order Rhizobium inoculant if planting beans
Inoculant has a limited shelf life and is often out of stock at peak planting time. Order in advance and store in a cool, dark place.
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