Growing Pigeon Peas in Kisii

Soil suitability analysis based on Kisii's nutrient profile

Pigeon Peas can be grown in Kisii County, but the soil scores 48/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. Local soils average pH 5.21 — moderately acidic and inside the 5–8 band Pigeon Peas prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.09 g/kg), phosphorus (13.1 mg/kg) and potassium (151 mg/kg) all meet Pigeon Peas's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Pigeon Peas prefers sandy soils, while Kisii is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Pigeon Peas's full potential is about 600 kg/acre (~KES 45,000/acre at KES 75/kg), but at Kisii's 48/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 360 kg/acre (~KES 27,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.