Growing Sugarcane in Kisii
Soil suitability analysis based on Kisii's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Kisii is moderately suited to Sugarcane. Kisii's soil (pH 5.21, strongly acidic) gives Sugarcane a suitability score of 57/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Sugarcane can be grown in Kisii County, but the soil scores 57/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.21 the soil is moderately acidic, below Sugarcane's preferred 5.5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen and potassium — measured at N 1.09 g/kg, P 13.1 mg/kg, K 151 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Sugarcane, which favours loam. Sugarcane's full potential is about 27,000 kg/acre (~KES 135,000/acre at KES 5/kg), but at Kisii's 57/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 19,238 kg/acre (~KES 96,190/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kisii soil | Sugarcane needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.21 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.09 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 13.1 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 151 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,500 mm | 1,100–2,000 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–1,500 m | High |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag