Growing Potato in Nairobi
Soil suitability analysis based on Nairobi's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Nairobi is moderately suited to Potato. Nairobi's soil (pH 6.85, near-neutral) gives Potato a suitability score of 71/100. Match fertilizer to Nairobi's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Nairobi County is a solid choice for Potato, with a soil-match score of 71/100. At an average pH of 6.85 the soil sits above Potato's preferred 4.8–6.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 1.1 g/kg, P 22.1 mg/kg, K 236 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Potato prefers sandy loam soils, while Nairobi is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Potato's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 304,000/acre at KES 38/kg), but at Nairobi's 71/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 7,100 kg/acre (~KES 269,800/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Nairobi soil | Potato needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.85 | 4.8–6.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.1 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 22.1 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 236 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 900 mm | 700–1,500 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 1,500–3,000 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag