Growing Lentils in Murang'a

Soil suitability analysis based on Murang'a's nutrient profile

Lentils can be grown in Murang'a County, but the soil scores 51/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.03 the soil is moderately acidic, below Lentils's preferred 5.5–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.2 g/kg), phosphorus (12.2 mg/kg) and potassium (168 mg/kg) all meet Lentils's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Lentils prefers sandy loam soils, while Murang'a is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At current prices (about KES 180/kg) and a typical 600 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Lentils crop here can gross roughly KES 108,000 per acre.