Growing Rice (Lowland/Paddy) in Baringo
Soil suitability analysis based on Baringo's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Baringo is poorly suited to Rice (Lowland/Paddy). Baringo's soil (pH 6.22, slightly acidic) gives Rice (Lowland/Paddy) a suitability score of 36/100. Match fertilizer to Baringo's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Baringo County is a challenging environment for Rice (Lowland/Paddy) (soil-match score 36/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. Local soils average pH 6.22 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 4.5–7 band Rice (Lowland/Paddy) prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.32 g/kg), phosphorus (23.4 mg/kg) and potassium (212 mg/kg) all meet Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Rice (Lowland/Paddy), which favours clay. Baringo receives approximately 700 mm/year — well below Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s minimum of 1100 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s full potential is about 2,600 kg/acre (~KES 260,000/acre at KES 100/kg), but at Baringo's 36/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 1,170 kg/acre (~KES 117,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Baringo soil | Rice (Lowland/Paddy) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.22 | 4.5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.32 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 23.4 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 212 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 700 mm | 1,100–2,000 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 900 m | 0–1,500 m | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag