Which county is best for Chia farming in Kenya?

Based on soil and climate suitability analysis, the top counties for Chia are Machakos, Kajiado, Nairobi. Scores combine soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium against Chia's nutrient requirements, plus a rainfall and altitude multiplier that penalises counties outside the crop's climate range.

What soil pH does Chia need?

Chia grows best between pH 6 and 8. Counties whose soils fall outside this range will need lime (if acidic) or sulphur (if alkaline) before planting.

What is the expected yield per acre for Chia in Kenya?

A well-managed Chia crop yields about 400 kg/acre. At a market price of approximately KES 150/kg, gross revenue per acre is around KES 60,000.

Best counties to grow Chia in Kenya

All 47 counties ranked by soil and climate suitability for Chia — scored against pH 6–8 target, low nitrogen, medium phosphorus, low potassium, plus rainfall (300–800 mm) and altitude (1000–2200 m) requirements.

Click any county to see the full fertilizer plan, planting calendar, and seed varieties.

Quick answer

The best counties for Chia in Kenya are Machakos, Kajiado, Nairobi, based on soil and climate suitability. Chia grows best at pH 6–8; these rank highest across all 47 counties on ShambaIQ's soil scoring.