Which county is best for Maize farming in Kenya?

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

What soil pH does Maize need?

Maize grows best between pH 5.5 and 7. 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 Maize in Kenya?

A well-managed Maize crop yields about 1,800 kg/acre. At a market price of approximately KES 45/kg, gross revenue per acre is around KES 81,000.

Best counties to grow Maize in Kenya

All 47 counties ranked by soil and climate suitability for Maize — scored against pH 5.5–7 target, high nitrogen, high phosphorus, medium potassium, plus rainfall (500–1600 mm) and altitude (0–2500 m) requirements.

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

Quick answer

The best counties for Maize in Kenya are Nakuru, Narok, Uasin Gishu, based on soil and climate suitability. Maize grows best at pH 5.5–7; these rank highest across all 47 counties on ShambaIQ's soil scoring.