Growing Strawberry in Kisii
Soil suitability analysis based on Kisii's nutrient profile
Kisii County is a solid choice for Strawberry, with a soil-match score of 70/100. At an average pH of 5.21 the soil is moderately acidic, below Strawberry's preferred 5.5–6.8 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — measured at N 1.09 g/kg, P 13.1 mg/kg, K 151 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Strawberry, which favours loam. Strawberry's full potential is about 6,000 kg/acre (~KES 1,200,000/acre at KES 200/kg), but at Kisii's 70/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 5,250 kg/acre (~KES 1,050,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kisii soil | Strawberry needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.21 | 5.5–6.8 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.09 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 13.1 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 151 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,500 mm | 700–1,500 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 1,500–2,800 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag