Growing Rosemary in Kisii

Soil suitability analysis based on Kisii's nutrient profile

Kisii County is a challenging environment for Rosemary (soil-match score 41/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.21 the soil is moderately acidic, below Rosemary's preferred 6–8 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.09 g/kg), phosphorus (13.1 mg/kg) and potassium (151 mg/kg) all meet Rosemary's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Rosemary prefers sandy loam soils, while Kisii is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Rosemary's full potential is about 2,500 kg/acre (~KES 375,000/acre at KES 150/kg), but at Kisii's 41/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 1,281 kg/acre (~KES 192,150/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.