Which county is best for Onion farming in Kenya?

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

What soil pH does Onion need?

Onion grows best between pH 6 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 Onion in Kenya?

A well-managed Onion crop yields about 6,000 kg/acre. At a market price of approximately KES 70/kg, gross revenue per acre is around KES 420,000.

Best counties to grow Onion in Kenya

All 47 counties ranked by soil and climate suitability for Onion — scored against pH 6–7 target, high nitrogen, high phosphorus, medium potassium, plus rainfall (500–1000 mm) and altitude (0–2000 m) requirements.

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

Quick answer

The best counties for Onion in Kenya are Nakuru, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, based on soil and climate suitability. Onion grows best at pH 6–7; these rank highest across all 47 counties on ShambaIQ's soil scoring.