Growing Chia in Bomet

Soil suitability analysis based on Bomet's nutrient profile

Chia can be grown in Bomet County, but the soil scores 45/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. Local soils average pH 6.02 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 6–8 band Chia prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.38 g/kg), phosphorus (23.6 mg/kg) and potassium (237 mg/kg) all meet Chia's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Chia prefers sandy loam soils, while Bomet is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Chia's full potential is about 400 kg/acre (~KES 60,000/acre at KES 150/kg), but at Bomet's 45/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 225 kg/acre (~KES 33,750/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.