Growing Arrow Root in Makueni

Soil suitability analysis based on Makueni's nutrient profile

Makueni County is a challenging environment for Arrow Root (soil-match score 23/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.5 the soil sits above Arrow Root's preferred 5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.86 g/kg), phosphorus (29.6 mg/kg) and potassium (351 mg/kg) all meet Arrow Root's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Arrow Root, which favours clay loam. Makueni receives approximately 600 mm/year — well below Arrow Root's minimum of 1000 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 55/kg) and a typical 4,500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Arrow Root crop here can gross roughly KES 247,500 per acre.