Growing Pyrethrum in Isiolo
Soil suitability analysis based on Isiolo's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Isiolo is poorly suited to Pyrethrum. Isiolo's soil (pH 7.83, alkaline) gives Pyrethrum a suitability score of 2/100. Match fertilizer to Isiolo's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Isiolo County is a challenging environment for Pyrethrum (soil-match score 2/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.83 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 0.46 g/kg, P 37.4 mg/kg, K 395 mg/kg against this crop's medium/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Pyrethrum prefers loam soils, while Isiolo is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Isiolo receives approximately 350 mm/year — well below Pyrethrum's minimum of 900 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Pyrethrum is the #104 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Isiolo County. Pyrethrum's full potential is about 500 kg/acre (~KES 140,000/acre at KES 280/kg), but at Isiolo's 2/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 13 kg/acre (~KES 3,640/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 | Pyrethrum needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.83 | 5–6.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.46 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 37.4 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 395 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 350 mm | 900–1,500 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 900 m | 1,800–3,000 m | Low |
Top dressing guide
Isiolo's nitrogen (0.46 g/kg) is 57% of the 0.8 g/kg Pyrethrum needs, so the standard 0.5 bags/acre is raised to 0.75. Split it across two applications to limit leaching.
Recommended seed varieties
All 2 listed pyrethrum varieties shown — none are specifically rated for Isiolo's conditions. Confirm with your agrovet.
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag