Growing Lucerne in Laikipia

Soil suitability analysis based on Laikipia's nutrient profile

Lucerne can be grown in Laikipia County, but the soil scores 59/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Lucerne's preferred 6.5–8 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 Lucerne's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Lucerne prefers clay loam soils, while Laikipia is largely sandy loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Lucerne's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 224,000/acre at KES 28/kg), but at Laikipia's 59/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 5,900 kg/acre (~KES 165,200/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.