Growing Dolichos in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Dolichos (soil-match score 1/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Dolichos's preferred 5–7.5 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 Dolichos's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Dolichos, which favours sandy loam. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Dolichos's minimum of 400 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 120/kg) and a typical 500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Dolichos crop here can gross roughly KES 60,000 per acre.