Growing Tomato in Meru
Soil suitability analysis based on Meru's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Meru is moderately suited to Tomato. Meru's soil (pH 4.88, strongly acidic) gives Tomato a suitability score of 63/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Meru County is a solid choice for Tomato, with a soil-match score of 63/100. At an average pH of 4.88 the soil is strongly acidic, below Tomato's preferred 6–7 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 Tomato's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Tomato, which favours loam. Tomato's full potential is about 15,000 kg/acre (~KES 750,000/acre at KES 50/kg), but at Meru's 63/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 11,813 kg/acre (~KES 590,650/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Meru soil | Tomato needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.88 | 6–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.22 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 20.3 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 218 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,400 mm | 600–1,400 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 0–1,800 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