Growing Radish in Turkana
Soil suitability analysis based on Turkana's nutrient profile
Turkana County is a challenging environment for Radish (soil-match score 14/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.95 the soil sits above Radish's preferred 6–7.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.41 g/kg, P 38.5 mg/kg, K 417 mg/kg against this crop's medium/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Radish, which favours sandy loam. Turkana receives approximately 300 mm/year — well below Radish's minimum of 500 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Radish's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 320,000/acre at KES 40/kg), but at Turkana's 14/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 1,400 kg/acre (~KES 56,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Turkana soil | Radish needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.95 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.41 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 38.5 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 417 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 300 mm | 500–1,000 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 400 m | 500–2,500 m | Low |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag