Growing Pyrethrum in Meru
Soil suitability analysis based on Meru's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Meru is moderately suited to Pyrethrum. Meru's soil (pH 4.88, strongly acidic) gives Pyrethrum a suitability score of 56/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Pyrethrum can be grown in Meru County, but the soil scores 56/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 4.88 the soil is strongly acidic, below Pyrethrum's preferred 5–6.5 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 Pyrethrum's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Pyrethrum, which favours loam. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Pyrethrum is the #63 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Meru County. Pyrethrum's full potential is about 500 kg/acre (~KES 140,000/acre at KES 280/kg), but at Meru's 56/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 350 kg/acre (~KES 98,000/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 | Pyrethrum needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.88 | 5–6.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.22 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 20.3 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 218 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,400 mm | 900–1,500 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 1,800–3,000 m | Low |
Top dressing guide
Meru's nitrogen (1.22 g/kg) already meets Pyrethrum's 0.8 g/kg requirement, so this is a maintenance rate.
Recommended seed varieties
All 2 listed pyrethrum varieties shown — none are specifically rated for Meru's conditions. Confirm with your agrovet.
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag