Growing Lentils in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Lentils (soil-match score 1/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Lentils's preferred 5.5–7.5 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 Lentils's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Lentils, which favours sandy loam. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Lentils's minimum of 350 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 180/kg) and a typical 600 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Lentils crop here can gross roughly KES 108,000 per acre.