Growing Mango in Embu
Soil suitability analysis based on Embu's nutrient profile
Possible but challenging — Embu is only marginally suited to Mango. Embu's soil (pH 5.1, strongly acidic) gives Mango a suitability score of 44/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Embu County is a challenging environment for Mango (soil-match score 44/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. 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. Mango's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 80,000/acre at KES 10/kg), but at Embu's 44/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,400 kg/acre (~KES 44,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Embu soil | Mango needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.1 | 5.5–8.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.04 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 12.6 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 194 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,300 mm | 500–1,200 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,400 m | 0–1,200 m | High |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag