Best Fertilizer for Maize Farming

Maize is the backbone of farming in the North Rift, and fertilizer is usually the single biggest input cost. Getting the right product at the right stage can mean the difference between 10 bags and 25 bags per acre.

At planting: phosphorus drives the roots

Use DAP (18-46-0) or a planting blend like Mavuno Planting at 50 kg per acre, placed in the planting hole and mixed lightly with soil before dropping the seed. Phosphorus is critical in the first 30 days — it builds the root system that feeds the plant for the rest of the season. On acidic soils (common around Eldoret, Moiben and Turbo) consider TSP or a blend with lime, since DAP can worsen acidity over time.

First top-dressing: nitrogen for vegetative growth

When the maize is knee-high (about 30 days after emergence), top-dress with CAN (26% N) at 50 kg per acre. CAN is gentler on the soil than urea and includes calcium. Apply along the row, 10–15 cm from the plant, ideally just before light rain.

Second top-dressing: power for tasseling

At waist height (about 45–55 days), apply a second 50 kg per acre of CAN or urea. This is when the cob size is being decided — skip it and you cap your yield no matter how good the rains are.

Don't forget the soil itself

Test your soil every 2–3 seasons. If pH is below 5.5, broadcast agricultural lime at 1–2 bags per acre during land preparation. Healthy soil makes every bag of fertilizer work harder.

We stock DAP, CAN, urea, NPK 17-17-17, Mavuno blends and foliar feeds at competitive prices. Bring your soil test results and we'll recommend the right combination for your farm.