Growing Pigeon Peas in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Pigeon Peas (soil-match score 11/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Pigeon Peas's preferred 5–8 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 Pigeon Peas's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Pigeon Peas, which favours sandy. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Pigeon Peas's minimum of 400 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 75/kg) and a typical 500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Pigeon Peas crop here can gross roughly KES 37,500 per acre.