Growing Mint in Kisumu
Soil suitability analysis based on Kisumu's nutrient profile
Kisumu County is a solid choice for Mint, with a soil-match score of 69/100. At an average pH of 5.54 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Mint's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.91 g/kg, P 12.5 mg/kg, K 166 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Mint prefers loam soils, while Kisumu is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Mint's full potential is about 4,000 kg/acre (~KES 400,000/acre at KES 100/kg), but at Kisumu's 69/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 3,450 kg/acre (~KES 345,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kisumu soil | Mint needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.54 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| 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 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 700–1,400 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,150 m | 500–2,200 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag