Growing Pawpaw in Trans Nzoia

Soil suitability analysis based on Trans Nzoia's nutrient profile

Trans Nzoia County is a challenging environment for Pawpaw (soil-match score 33/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.93 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Pawpaw's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.68 g/kg), phosphorus (27.3 mg/kg) and potassium (213 mg/kg) all meet Pawpaw's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Pawpaw prefers sandy loam soils, while Trans Nzoia is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At 1900 m, the county sits above Pawpaw's preferred altitude ceiling of 1200 m, where frost risk and cold nights reduce the crop's productivity. Pawpaw's full potential is about 12,000 kg/acre (~KES 336,000/acre at KES 28/kg), but at Trans Nzoia's 33/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,950 kg/acre (~KES 138,600/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.