Growing Pyrethrum in Makueni

Soil suitability analysis based on Makueni's nutrient profile

Makueni County is a challenging environment for Pyrethrum (soil-match score 8/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.5 the soil sits above Pyrethrum's preferred 5–6.5 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 Pyrethrum's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Pyrethrum, which favours loam. Makueni receives approximately 600 mm/year — well below Pyrethrum's minimum of 900 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Pyrethrum's full potential is about 500 kg/acre (~KES 140,000/acre at KES 280/kg), but at Makueni's 8/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 50 kg/acre (~KES 14,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.