Which county is best for Barley farming in Kenya?

Based on soil and climate suitability analysis, the top counties for Barley are Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nakuru. Scores combine soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium against Barley's nutrient requirements, plus a rainfall and altitude multiplier that penalises counties outside the crop's climate range.

What soil pH does Barley need?

Barley grows best between pH 6 and 7.5. Counties whose soils fall outside this range will need lime (if acidic) or sulphur (if alkaline) before planting.

What is the expected yield per acre for Barley in Kenya?

A well-managed Barley crop yields about 1,600 kg/acre. At a market price of approximately KES 42/kg, gross revenue per acre is around KES 67,200.

Best counties to grow Barley in Kenya

All 47 counties ranked by soil and climate suitability for Barley — scored against pH 6–7.5 target, medium nitrogen, high phosphorus, medium potassium, plus rainfall (500–1000 mm) and altitude (2000–3000 m) requirements.

Click any county to see the full fertilizer plan, planting calendar, and seed varieties.

Quick answer

The best counties for Barley in Kenya are Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nakuru, based on soil and climate suitability. Barley grows best at pH 6–7.5; these rank highest across all 47 counties on ShambaIQ's soil scoring.