Growing Potato in Kajiado
Soil suitability analysis based on Kajiado's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Kajiado is poorly suited to Potato. Kajiado's soil (pH 6.55, near-neutral) gives Potato a suitability score of 29/100. Match fertilizer to Kajiado's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Kajiado County is a challenging environment for Potato (soil-match score 29/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 6.55 the soil sits above Potato's preferred 4.8–6.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.97 g/kg, P 20.6 mg/kg, K 257 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Potato, which favours sandy loam. Kajiado receives approximately 500 mm/year — well below Potato's minimum of 700 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Potato's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 304,000/acre at KES 38/kg), but at Kajiado's 29/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 2,900 kg/acre (~KES 110,200/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kajiado soil | Potato needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.55 | 4.8–6.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.97 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 20.6 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 257 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 500 mm | 700–1,500 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 1,300 m | 1,500–3,000 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