Growing Onion in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Onion (soil-match score 6/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Onion's preferred 6–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.53 g/kg, P 38.3 mg/kg, K 420 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Onion, which favours sandy loam. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Onion's minimum of 500 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 45/kg) and a typical 3,500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Onion crop here can gross roughly KES 157,500 per acre.