Growing Maize in Garissa

Soil suitability analysis based on Garissa's nutrient profile

Garissa County is a challenging environment for Maize (soil-match score 13/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.96 the soil sits above Maize's preferred 5.5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.61 g/kg, P 37.7 mg/kg, K 407 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Maize prefers loam soils, while Garissa is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Garissa receives approximately 250 mm/year — well below Maize's minimum of 500 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 38/kg) and a typical 1,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Maize crop here can gross roughly KES 38,000 per acre.