Growing Soybeans in Garissa
Soil suitability analysis based on Garissa's nutrient profile
Garissa County is a challenging environment for Soybeans (soil-match score 10/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.96 the soil sits above Soybeans's preferred 5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.61 g/kg), phosphorus (37.7 mg/kg) and potassium (407 mg/kg) all meet Soybeans's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Soybeans 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 Soybeans's minimum of 600 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 75/kg) and a typical 550 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Soybeans crop here can gross roughly KES 41,250 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Garissa soil | Soybeans needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.96 | 5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.61 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 37.7 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 407 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag