Growing Mango in Embu

Soil suitability analysis based on Embu's nutrient profile

Mango can be grown in Embu County, but the soil scores 50/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.1 the soil is moderately acidic, below Mango's preferred 5.5–8.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.04 g/kg), phosphorus (12.6 mg/kg) and potassium (194 mg/kg) all meet Mango's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Mango prefers sandy soils, while Embu is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At current prices (about KES 10/kg) and a typical 2,800 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Mango crop here can gross roughly KES 28,000 per acre.

50Suitability score

Soil match analysis

NutrientEmbu soilMango needsStatus
pH5.15.58.5Adjust
Nitrogen1.04 g/kgmin 0.5 g/kgOK
Phosphorus12.6 mg/kgmin 6 mg/kgOK
Potassium194 mg/kgmin 150 mg/kgOK

Recommended seed varieties

Apple MangoCoastal/Dryland
KALRO/HCDA · 1000-1200 days · 40-60 tons/acre
Most popular domestic variety; sweet and juicy.
Tommy AtkinsCoastal/Dryland
KALRO/HCDA · 1000-1200 days · 50-80 tons/acre
Export quality; good shelf life; disease tolerant.

Economics

Market priceKES 10/kg
Expected yield2,800 kg/acre
Estimated revenueKES 28,000/acre

Preferred textureSandy

Fertilizer prices

DAP
KES 2,500(6,500)
CAN
KES 2,500(4,500)
NPK 17:17:17
KES 2,500(5,600)
Urea
KES 2,500(5,500)
Lime
KES 1,500(1,800)

Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag