Growing Garlic in Wajir
Soil suitability analysis based on Wajir's nutrient profile
Wajir County is a challenging environment for Garlic (soil-match score 8/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.4 the soil sits above Garlic's preferred 6–7.5 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. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Garlic, which favours sandy loam. Wajir receives approximately 200 mm/year — well below Garlic's minimum of 500 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 275/kg) and a typical 1,800 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Garlic crop here can gross roughly KES 495,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Wajir soil | Garlic needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.4 | 6–7.5 | 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 |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag