Growing Dolichos in Isiolo
Soil suitability analysis based on Isiolo's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Isiolo is poorly suited to Dolichos. Isiolo's soil (pH 7.83, alkaline) gives Dolichos a suitability score of 39/100. Match fertilizer to Isiolo's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Isiolo County is a challenging environment for Dolichos (soil-match score 39/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.83 the soil sits above Dolichos's preferred 5–7.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.46 g/kg, P 37.4 mg/kg, K 395 mg/kg against this crop's low/low/low demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Dolichos, which favours sandy loam. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Dolichos is the #19 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Isiolo County. Dolichos's full potential is about 600 kg/acre (~KES 72,000/acre at KES 120/kg), but at Isiolo's 39/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 293 kg/acre (~KES 35,160/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Isiolo's soil: Sisal, Aloe Vera, and Green Grams — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Isiolo soil | Dolichos needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.83 | 5–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.46 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 37.4 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 395 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 350 mm | 400–1,000 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 900 m | 1,000–2,100 m | Low |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag