Growing Sisal in Murang'a

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

Murang'a County is a challenging environment for Sisal (soil-match score 40/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.03 the soil is moderately acidic, below Sisal's preferred 5.5–8.5 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 Sisal's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sisal prefers sandy soils, while Murang'a is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Sisal's full potential is about 1,000 kg/acre (~KES 90,000/acre at KES 90/kg), but at Murang'a's 40/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 500 kg/acre (~KES 45,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.