Growing Courgette (Zucchini) in Murang'a
Soil suitability analysis based on Murang'a's nutrient profile
Murang'a County is a solid choice for Courgette (Zucchini), with a soil-match score of 67/100. At an average pH of 5.03 the soil is moderately acidic, below Courgette (Zucchini)'s preferred 5.8–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is potassium — measured at N 1.2 g/kg, P 12.2 mg/kg, K 168 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Courgette (Zucchini) prefers loam soils, while Murang'a is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Courgette (Zucchini)'s full potential is about 12,000 kg/acre (~KES 600,000/acre at KES 50/kg), but at Murang'a's 67/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 10,050 kg/acre (~KES 502,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Murang'a soil | Courgette (Zucchini) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.03 | 5.8–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.2 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 12.2 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 168 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 500–1,200 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 0–2,100 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag