Growing Soybeans in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Soybeans (soil-match score 5/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Soybeans's preferred 5–7 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 Soybeans's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Soybeans prefers loam soils, while Mandera is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Soybeans's minimum of 600 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Soybeans's full potential is about 700 kg/acre (~KES 52,500/acre at KES 75/kg), but at Mandera's 5/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 44 kg/acre (~KES 3,300/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.