Growing Cotton in Kirinyaga
Soil suitability analysis based on Kirinyaga's nutrient profile
Kirinyaga County is a solid choice for Cotton, with a soil-match score of 63/100. At an average pH of 5.31 the soil is moderately acidic, below Cotton's preferred 5.8–8 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.36 g/kg), phosphorus (12.5 mg/kg) and potassium (177 mg/kg) all meet Cotton's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay soils suit Cotton, which favours clay. Cotton's full potential is about 900 kg/acre (~KES 61,200/acre at KES 68/kg), but at Kirinyaga's 63/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 709 kg/acre (~KES 48,212/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kirinyaga soil | Cotton needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.31 | 5.8–8 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.36 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 12.5 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 177 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,300 mm | 450–1,200 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 0–1,500 m | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag