Growing Tomato in Busia
Soil suitability analysis based on Busia's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Busia is moderately suited to Tomato. Busia's soil (pH 5.29, strongly acidic) gives Tomato a suitability score of 66/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Busia County is a solid choice for Tomato, with a soil-match score of 66/100. At an average pH of 5.29 the soil is moderately acidic, below Tomato's preferred 6–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — measured at N 0.91 g/kg, P 16.6 mg/kg, K 175 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Tomato, which favours loam. Tomato's full potential is about 15,000 kg/acre (~KES 750,000/acre at KES 50/kg), but at Busia's 66/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 12,375 kg/acre (~KES 618,750/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Busia soil | Tomato needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.29 | 6–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.91 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 16.6 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 175 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,400 mm | 600–1,400 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,200 m | 0–1,800 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