Growing Coffee (Robusta) in Kisumu
Soil suitability analysis based on Kisumu's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Kisumu is moderately suited to Coffee (Robusta). Kisumu's soil (pH 5.54, slightly acidic) gives Coffee (Robusta) a suitability score of 55/100. Match fertilizer to Kisumu's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Coffee (Robusta) can be grown in Kisumu County, but the soil scores 55/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. Local soils average pH 5.54 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5–6.5 band Coffee (Robusta) prefers, so no lime is usually required. The main gap is nitrogen and potassium — measured at N 0.91 g/kg, P 12.5 mg/kg, K 166 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. Coffee (Robusta) prefers loam soils, while Kisumu is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Coffee (Robusta)'s full potential is about 950 kg/acre (~KES 76,000/acre at KES 80/kg), but at Kisumu's 55/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 653 kg/acre (~KES 52,240/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kisumu soil | Coffee (Robusta) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.54 | 5–6.5 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 0.91 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 12.5 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 166 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 1,500–2,500 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 1,150 m | 0–1,200 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag