Growing Dolichos in Garissa

Soil suitability analysis based on Garissa's nutrient profile

Garissa County is a challenging environment for Dolichos (soil-match score 1/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.96 the soil sits above Dolichos's preferred 5–7.5 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 Dolichos's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Dolichos, which favours sandy loam. Garissa receives approximately 250 mm/year — well below Dolichos's minimum of 400 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 120/kg) and a typical 500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Dolichos crop here can gross roughly KES 60,000 per acre.