Growing Capsicum in Murang'a
Soil suitability analysis based on Murang'a's nutrient profile
Murang'a County is a solid choice for Capsicum, with a soil-match score of 65/100. At an average pH of 5.03 the soil is moderately acidic, below Capsicum's preferred 5.5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is phosphorus and potassium — measured at N 1.2 g/kg, P 12.2 mg/kg, K 168 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. Capsicum prefers loam soils, while Murang'a is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At current prices (about KES 90/kg) and a typical 4,500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Capsicum crop here can gross roughly KES 405,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Murang'a soil | Capsicum needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.03 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.2 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 12.2 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 168 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag