Growing Watermelon in Wajir

Soil suitability analysis based on Wajir's nutrient profile

Wajir County is a challenging environment for Watermelon (soil-match score 24/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.4 the soil sits above Watermelon'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 medium/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Watermelon, which favours sandy. Wajir receives approximately 200 mm/year — well below Watermelon's minimum of 300 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Watermelon's full potential is about 15,000 kg/acre (~KES 150,000/acre at KES 10/kg), but at Wajir's 24/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,500 kg/acre (~KES 45,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.