Growing Turmeric in Elgeyo Marakwet
Soil suitability analysis based on Elgeyo Marakwet's nutrient profile
Elgeyo Marakwet County is a solid choice for Turmeric, with a soil-match score of 63/100. Local soils average pH 6.27 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5.5–7.5 band Turmeric prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.39 g/kg), phosphorus (22.2 mg/kg) and potassium (213 mg/kg) all meet Turmeric's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Turmeric, which favours loam. Turmeric's full potential is about 6,000 kg/acre (~KES 480,000/acre at KES 80/kg), but at Elgeyo Marakwet's 63/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,725 kg/acre (~KES 378,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Elgeyo Marakwet soil | Turmeric needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.27 | 5.5–7.5 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.39 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 22.2 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 213 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,000 mm | 1,000–2,000 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,800 m | 0–1,500 m | High |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag