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.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | 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 |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag