Growing Butternut Squash in Homa Bay
Soil suitability analysis based on Homa Bay's nutrient profile
Homa Bay County is a solid choice for Butternut Squash, with a soil-match score of 71/100. At an average pH of 5.27 the soil is moderately acidic, below Butternut Squash's preferred 5.5–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is potassium — measured at N 1.05 g/kg, P 13.8 mg/kg, K 147 mg/kg against this crop's medium/medium/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Butternut Squash, which favours sandy loam. At current prices (about KES 40/kg) and a typical 8,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Butternut Squash crop here can gross roughly KES 320,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Homa Bay soil | Butternut Squash needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.27 | 5.5–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.05 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 13.8 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| 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