Growing Aloe Vera in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Aloe Vera (soil-match score 33/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Aloe Vera's preferred 6–8 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.53 g/kg), phosphorus (38.3 mg/kg) and potassium (420 mg/kg) all meet Aloe Vera's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Aloe Vera, which favours sandy loam. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Aloe Vera's minimum of 250 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Aloe Vera's full potential is about 12,000 kg/acre (~KES 480,000/acre at KES 40/kg), but at Mandera's 33/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,950 kg/acre (~KES 198,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.