Growing Stevia in Meru
Soil suitability analysis based on Meru's nutrient profile
Meru County is a solid choice for Stevia, with a soil-match score of 61/100. At an average pH of 4.88 the soil is strongly acidic, below Stevia's preferred 6–7.5 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 Stevia's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Stevia, which favours loam. Stevia's full potential is about 3,000 kg/acre (~KES 600,000/acre at KES 200/kg), but at Meru's 61/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 2,288 kg/acre (~KES 457,600/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Meru soil | Stevia needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.88 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.22 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 20.3 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 218 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,400 mm | 700–1,500 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 500–2,000 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag