Growing Dolichos in Meru
Soil suitability analysis based on Meru's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Meru is moderately suited to Dolichos. Meru's soil (pH 4.88, strongly acidic) gives Dolichos a suitability score of 57/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Dolichos can be grown in Meru County, but the soil scores 57/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 4.88 the soil is strongly acidic, below Dolichos's preferred 5–7.5 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 Dolichos's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Dolichos prefers sandy loam soils, while Meru is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Dolichos is the #60 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Meru County. Dolichos's full potential is about 600 kg/acre (~KES 72,000/acre at KES 120/kg), but at Meru's 57/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 428 kg/acre (~KES 51,360/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Meru's soil: Tea, Avocado, and Macadamia — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Meru soil | Dolichos needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.88 | 5–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.22 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 20.3 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 218 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,400 mm | 400–1,000 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 1,000–2,100 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag