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. Arrow Root prefers clay loam soils, while Makueni is largely sandy loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Makueni receives approximately 600 mm/year — well below Arrow Root's minimum of 1000 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Arrow Root's full potential is about 5,000 kg/acre (~KES 275,000/acre at KES 55/kg), but at Makueni's 23/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 1,438 kg/acre (~KES 79,090/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.