Growing Carrot in Garissa
Soil suitability analysis based on Garissa's nutrient profile
Garissa County is a challenging environment for Carrot (soil-match score 0/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.96 the soil sits above Carrot's preferred 5.5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.61 g/kg), phosphorus (37.7 mg/kg) and potassium (407 mg/kg) all meet Carrot's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Carrot, which favours sandy loam. Garissa receives approximately 250 mm/year — well below Carrot's minimum of 600 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 38/kg) and a typical 5,500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Carrot crop here can gross roughly KES 209,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Garissa soil | Carrot needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.96 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.61 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 37.7 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 407 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag