Growing Tree Tomato (Tamarillo) in Embu

Soil suitability analysis based on Embu's nutrient profile

Tree Tomato (Tamarillo) can be grown in Embu County, but the soil scores 55/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.1 the soil is moderately acidic, below Tree Tomato (Tamarillo)'s preferred 5.8–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — measured at N 1.04 g/kg, P 12.6 mg/kg, K 194 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Tree Tomato (Tamarillo), which favours loam. Tree Tomato (Tamarillo)'s full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 640,000/acre at KES 80/kg), but at Embu's 55/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 5,500 kg/acre (~KES 440,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.