Growing Arrow Root in Nairobi
Soil suitability analysis based on Nairobi's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Nairobi is moderately suited to Arrow Root. Nairobi's soil (pH 6.85, near-neutral) gives Arrow Root a suitability score of 66/100. Match fertilizer to Nairobi's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Nairobi County is a solid choice for Arrow Root, with a soil-match score of 66/100. Local soils average pH 6.85 — neutral and inside the 5–7 band Arrow Root prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.1 g/kg), phosphorus (22.1 mg/kg) and potassium (236 mg/kg) all meet Arrow Root's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Arrow Root, which favours clay loam. Arrow Root's full potential is about 5,000 kg/acre (~KES 275,000/acre at KES 55/kg), but at Nairobi's 66/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,125 kg/acre (~KES 226,875/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Nairobi soil | Arrow Root needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.85 | 5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.1 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 22.1 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 236 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 900 mm | 1,000–2,000 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–1,800 m | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag