Growing Pigeon Peas in Busia

Soil suitability analysis based on Busia's nutrient profile

Pigeon Peas can be grown in Busia County, but the soil scores 54/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. Local soils average pH 5.29 — moderately acidic and inside the 5–8 band Pigeon Peas prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (0.91 g/kg), phosphorus (16.6 mg/kg) and potassium (175 mg/kg) all meet Pigeon Peas's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Pigeon Peas prefers sandy soils, while Busia is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Pigeon Peas's full potential is about 600 kg/acre (~KES 45,000/acre at KES 75/kg), but at Busia's 54/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 405 kg/acre (~KES 30,375/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.