Growing Onion in Bomet
Soil suitability analysis based on Bomet's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Bomet is moderately suited to Onion. Bomet's soil (pH 6.02, slightly acidic) gives Onion a suitability score of 66/100. Match fertilizer to Bomet's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Bomet County is a solid choice for Onion, with a soil-match score of 66/100. Local soils average pH 6.02 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 6–7 band Onion prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.38 g/kg), phosphorus (23.6 mg/kg) and potassium (237 mg/kg) all meet Onion's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Onion prefers sandy loam soils, while Bomet is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Onion's full potential is about 6,000 kg/acre (~KES 420,000/acre at KES 70/kg), but at Bomet's 66/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,950 kg/acre (~KES 346,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Bomet soil | Onion needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.02 | 6–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.38 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 23.6 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 237 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,500 mm | 500–1,000 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,900 m | 0–2,000 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag