Growing Broccoli in Homa Bay
Soil suitability analysis based on Homa Bay's nutrient profile
Homa Bay County is a challenging environment for Broccoli (soil-match score 26/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.27 the soil is moderately acidic, below Broccoli's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — measured at N 1.05 g/kg, P 13.8 mg/kg, K 147 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Broccoli, which favours loam. At 1200 m, the county sits below Broccoli's preferred altitude range (1800–2800 m), which limits yield potential due to heat stress. At current prices (about KES 90/kg) and a typical 5,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Broccoli crop here can gross roughly KES 450,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Homa Bay soil | Broccoli needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.27 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.05 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 13.8 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 147 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag