Growing Green Grams in Embu
Soil suitability analysis based on Embu's nutrient profile
Embu County is a challenging environment for Green Grams (soil-match score 38/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.1 the soil is moderately acidic, below Green Grams's preferred 5.5–8 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.04 g/kg), phosphorus (12.6 mg/kg) and potassium (194 mg/kg) all meet Green Grams's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Green Grams, which favours sandy loam. At current prices (about KES 120/kg) and a typical 300 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Green Grams crop here can gross roughly KES 36,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Embu soil | Green Grams needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.1 | 5.5–8 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.04 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 12.6 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 194 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag