Growing Leek in Embu

Soil suitability analysis based on Embu's nutrient profile

Leek can be grown in Embu County, but the soil scores 59/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.1 the soil is moderately acidic, below Leek's preferred 6–7.5 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 Leek, which favours loam. Leek's full potential is about 10,000 kg/acre (~KES 600,000/acre at KES 60/kg), but at Embu's 59/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 7,375 kg/acre (~KES 442,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.