Growing Barley in Siaya

Soil suitability analysis based on Siaya's nutrient profile

Siaya County is a challenging environment for Barley (soil-match score 20/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.33 the soil is moderately acidic, below Barley's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is phosphorus and potassium — measured at N 1.2 g/kg, P 12.1 mg/kg, K 134 mg/kg against this crop's medium/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Barley, which favours loam. At 1200 m, the county sits below Barley's preferred altitude range (2000–3000 m), which limits yield potential due to heat stress. At current prices (about KES 42/kg) and a typical 1,100 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Barley crop here can gross roughly KES 46,200 per acre.