Growing Pyrethrum in Garissa

Soil suitability analysis based on Garissa's nutrient profile

Garissa County is a challenging environment for Pyrethrum (soil-match score 0/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.96 the soil sits above Pyrethrum's preferred 5–6.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.61 g/kg, P 37.7 mg/kg, K 407 mg/kg against this crop's medium/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Pyrethrum prefers loam soils, while Garissa is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Garissa receives approximately 250 mm/year — well below Pyrethrum's minimum of 900 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Pyrethrum's full potential is about 500 kg/acre (~KES 140,000/acre at KES 280/kg), but at Garissa's 0/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 0 kg/acre (~KES 0/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.