Growing Lentils in Busia

Soil suitability analysis based on Busia's nutrient profile

Lentils can be grown in Busia County, but the soil scores 46/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.29 the soil is moderately acidic, below Lentils's preferred 5.5–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (0.91 g/kg), phosphorus (16.6 mg/kg) and potassium (175 mg/kg) all meet Lentils's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Lentils, which favours sandy loam. At current prices (about KES 180/kg) and a typical 600 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Lentils crop here can gross roughly KES 108,000 per acre.