Growing Cucumber in Wajir
Soil suitability analysis based on Wajir's nutrient profile
Wajir County is a challenging environment for Cucumber (soil-match score 7/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.4 the soil sits above Cucumber's preferred 5.8–7 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. Cucumber 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 Cucumber's minimum of 500 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Cucumber's full potential is about 12,000 kg/acre (~KES 480,000/acre at KES 40/kg), but at Wajir's 7/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 1,050 kg/acre (~KES 42,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Wajir soil | Cucumber needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.4 | 5.8–7 | 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 |
| Rainfall | 200 mm | 500–1,200 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 250 m | 0–2,000 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag