Growing Radish in Kakamega
Soil suitability analysis based on Kakamega's nutrient profile
Kakamega County is a challenging environment for Radish (soil-match score 41/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.63 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Radish's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is potassium — measured at N 1.01 g/kg, P 14 mg/kg, K 147 mg/kg against this crop's medium/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Radish prefers sandy loam soils, while Kakamega is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Radish's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 320,000/acre at KES 40/kg), but at Kakamega's 41/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,100 kg/acre (~KES 164,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kakamega soil | Radish needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.63 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.01 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 14 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 147 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,900 mm | 500–1,000 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 500–2,500 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag