Growing Pyrethrum in Kitui

Soil suitability analysis based on Kitui's nutrient profile

Kitui County is a challenging environment for Pyrethrum (soil-match score 5/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.03 the soil sits above Pyrethrum's preferred 5–6.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.74 g/kg, P 30.5 mg/kg, K 339 mg/kg against this crop's medium/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Pyrethrum, which favours loam. Kitui receives approximately 500 mm/year — well below Pyrethrum's minimum of 900 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Pyrethrum's full potential is about 500 kg/acre (~KES 140,000/acre at KES 280/kg), but at Kitui's 5/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 31 kg/acre (~KES 8,680/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.