Growing Tree Tomato (Tamarillo) in Homa Bay

Soil suitability analysis based on Homa Bay's nutrient profile

Homa Bay County is a challenging environment for Tree Tomato (Tamarillo) (soil-match score 42/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.27 the soil is moderately acidic, below Tree Tomato (Tamarillo)'s preferred 5.8–7 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 Tree Tomato (Tamarillo), which favours loam. Tree Tomato (Tamarillo)'s full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 640,000/acre at KES 80/kg), but at Homa Bay's 42/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,200 kg/acre (~KES 336,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.