Which county is best for Watermelon farming in Kenya?

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

What soil pH does Watermelon need?

Watermelon 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 Watermelon in Kenya?

A well-managed Watermelon crop yields about 15,000 kg/acre. At a market price of approximately KES 10/kg, gross revenue per acre is around KES 150,000.

Best counties to grow Watermelon in Kenya

All 47 counties ranked by soil and climate suitability for Watermelon — scored against pH 6–7.5 target, medium nitrogen, medium phosphorus, medium potassium, plus rainfall (300–700 mm) and altitude (0–1500 m) requirements.

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

Quick answer

The best counties for Watermelon in Kenya are Kajiado, Baringo, Machakos, based on soil and climate suitability. Watermelon grows best at pH 6–7.5; these rank highest across all 47 counties on ShambaIQ's soil scoring.