Growing Coffee (Arabica) in Wajir
Soil suitability analysis based on Wajir's nutrient profile
Wajir County is a challenging environment for Coffee (Arabica) (soil-match score 0/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.4 the soil sits above Coffee (Arabica)'s preferred 5–6 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.52 g/kg, P 39.3 mg/kg, K 396 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Coffee (Arabica) prefers loam soils, while Wajir is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Wajir receives approximately 200 mm/year — well below Coffee (Arabica)'s minimum of 1000 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 120/kg) and a typical 800 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Coffee (Arabica) crop here can gross roughly KES 96,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Wajir soil | Coffee (Arabica) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.4 | 5–6 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.52 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 39.3 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 396 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag