Growing Carrot in Meru
Soil suitability analysis based on Meru's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Meru is moderately suited to Carrot. Meru's soil (pH 4.88, strongly acidic) gives Carrot a suitability score of 65/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Meru County is a solid choice for Carrot, with a soil-match score of 65/100. At an average pH of 4.88 the soil is strongly acidic, below Carrot's preferred 5.5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.22 g/kg), phosphorus (20.3 mg/kg) and potassium (218 mg/kg) all meet Carrot's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Carrot prefers sandy loam soils, while Meru is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Carrot's full potential is about 10,000 kg/acre (~KES 380,000/acre at KES 38/kg), but at Meru's 65/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 8,125 kg/acre (~KES 308,750/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Meru soil | Carrot needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.88 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.22 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 20.3 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 218 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,400 mm | 600–1,200 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 1,000–2,500 m | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag