Growing Onion in Nyeri
Soil suitability analysis based on Nyeri's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Nyeri is moderately suited to Onion. Nyeri's soil (pH 5.23, strongly acidic) gives Onion a suitability score of 60/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Nyeri County is a solid choice for Onion, with a soil-match score of 60/100. At an average pH of 5.23 the soil is moderately acidic, below Onion's preferred 6–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen and phosphorus — measured at N 1.09 g/kg, P 15.5 mg/kg, K 192 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. Onion prefers sandy loam soils, while Nyeri is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Onion's full potential is about 6,000 kg/acre (~KES 420,000/acre at KES 70/kg), but at Nyeri's 60/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,500 kg/acre (~KES 315,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Nyeri soil | Onion needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.23 | 6–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.09 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 15.5 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 192 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 500–1,000 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–2,000 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