Growing Courgette (Zucchini) in Embu
Soil suitability analysis based on Embu's nutrient profile
Embu County is a solid choice for Courgette (Zucchini), with a soil-match score of 65/100. At an average pH of 5.1 the soil is moderately acidic, below Courgette (Zucchini)'s preferred 5.8–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen and potassium — measured at N 1.04 g/kg, P 12.6 mg/kg, K 194 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Courgette (Zucchini), which favours loam. Courgette (Zucchini)'s full potential is about 12,000 kg/acre (~KES 600,000/acre at KES 50/kg), but at Embu's 65/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 9,750 kg/acre (~KES 487,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Embu soil | Courgette (Zucchini) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.1 | 5.8–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.04 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 12.6 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 194 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,300 mm | 500–1,200 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,400 m | 0–2,100 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag