Growing Wheat in Bungoma
Soil suitability analysis based on Bungoma's nutrient profile
Bungoma County is a challenging environment for Wheat (soil-match score 36/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.56 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Wheat's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen and phosphorus — measured at N 1.12 g/kg, P 15.7 mg/kg, K 161 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Wheat, which favours clay. Wheat's full potential is about 2,000 kg/acre (~KES 100,000/acre at KES 50/kg), but at Bungoma's 36/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 900 kg/acre (~KES 45,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Bungoma soil | Wheat needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.56 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.12 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 15.7 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 161 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,400 mm | 450–950 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 1,800–3,000 m | Low |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag