Growing Tomato in Kericho
Soil suitability analysis based on Kericho's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Kericho is moderately suited to Tomato. Kericho's soil (pH 5.94, slightly acidic) gives Tomato a suitability score of 60/100. Match fertilizer to Kericho's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Kericho County is a solid choice for Tomato, with a soil-match score of 60/100. At an average pH of 5.94 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Tomato's preferred 6–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.34 g/kg), phosphorus (23.7 mg/kg) and potassium (225 mg/kg) all meet Tomato's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Tomato prefers loam soils, while Kericho is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Tomato's full potential is about 15,000 kg/acre (~KES 750,000/acre at KES 50/kg), but at Kericho's 60/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 11,250 kg/acre (~KES 562,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kericho soil | Tomato needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.94 | 6–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.34 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 23.7 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 225 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,800 mm | 600–1,400 mm | High |
| Altitude | 2,000 m | 0–1,800 m | High |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag