Growing Kale (Sukuma Wiki) in Laikipia
Soil suitability analysis based on Laikipia's nutrient profile
Kale (Sukuma Wiki) can be grown in Laikipia County, but the soil scores 57/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Kale (Sukuma Wiki)'s preferred 5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.42 g/kg), phosphorus (16.6 mg/kg) and potassium (215 mg/kg) all meet Kale (Sukuma Wiki)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Kale (Sukuma Wiki), which favours clay loam. At current prices (about KES 20/kg) and a typical 5,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Kale (Sukuma Wiki) crop here can gross roughly KES 100,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Laikipia soil | Kale (Sukuma Wiki) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.99 | 5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.42 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 16.6 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 215 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag