Which county is best for Macadamia farming in Kenya?

Based on soil and climate suitability analysis, the top counties for Macadamia are Bungoma, Busia, Kiambu. Scores combine soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium against Macadamia's nutrient requirements, plus a rainfall and altitude multiplier that penalises counties outside the crop's climate range.

What soil pH does Macadamia need?

Macadamia grows best between pH 4.5 and 6.5. 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 Macadamia in Kenya?

A well-managed Macadamia crop yields about 1,800 kg/acre. At a market price of approximately KES 110/kg, gross revenue per acre is around KES 198,000.

Best counties to grow Macadamia in Kenya

All 47 counties ranked by soil and climate suitability for Macadamia — scored against pH 4.5–6.5 target, medium nitrogen, medium phosphorus, medium potassium, plus rainfall (700–1500 mm) and altitude (900–2100 m) requirements.

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

Quick answer

The best counties for Macadamia in Kenya are Bungoma, Busia, Kiambu, based on soil and climate suitability. Macadamia grows best at pH 4.5–6.5; these rank highest across all 47 counties on ShambaIQ's soil scoring.