Growing Rice (Upland) in Marsabit

Soil suitability analysis based on Marsabit's nutrient profile

Marsabit County is a challenging environment for Rice (Upland) (soil-match score 6/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.22 the soil sits above Rice (Upland)'s preferred 5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.52 g/kg, P 37.3 mg/kg, K 420 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Rice (Upland) prefers clay soils, while Marsabit is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Marsabit receives approximately 300 mm/year — well below Rice (Upland)'s minimum of 800 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 105/kg) and a typical 1,600 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Rice (Upland) crop here can gross roughly KES 168,000 per acre.