Growing Radish in Laikipia
Soil suitability analysis based on Laikipia's nutrient profile
Laikipia County is a solid choice for Radish, with a soil-match score of 64/100. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Radish's preferred 6–7.5 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 Radish's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Radish, which favours sandy loam. Radish's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 320,000/acre at KES 40/kg), but at Laikipia's 64/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 6,400 kg/acre (~KES 256,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Laikipia soil | Radish needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.99 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.42 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 16.6 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 215 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 600 mm | 500–1,000 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 500–2,500 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag