Growing Yams in Nairobi
Soil suitability analysis based on Nairobi's nutrient profile
Yams can be grown in Nairobi County, but the soil scores 46/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 6.85 the soil sits above Yams's preferred 5.5–6.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (1.1 g/kg), phosphorus (22.1 mg/kg) and potassium (236 mg/kg) all meet Yams's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Yams, which favours sandy loam. At current prices (about KES 80/kg) and a typical 6,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Yams crop here can gross roughly KES 480,000 per acre.
Suitability score
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Nairobi soil | Yams needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.85 | 5.5–6.5 | Adjust |
| 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 |
Recommended seed varieties
Local White (Nyandarua/Meru)Medium/Highland 1000-1800m
Local · 240-300 days · 2.5–3.5 tons/acre
Traditional tuber crop; highly valued for food security; propagated via tuber sets.
Local PurpleMedium/Highland 1000-1800m
Local · 270-330 days · 2–3 tons/acre
Vigorous climbing vine; highly nutritious tuber.
Economics
Market priceKES 80/kg
Expected yield6,000 kg/acre
Estimated revenueKES 480,000/acre
Preferred textureSandy Loam
Fertilizer prices
DAP
KES 2,500(6,500)
CAN
KES 2,500(4,500)
NPK 17:17:17
KES 2,500(5,600)
Urea
KES 2,500(5,500)
Lime
KES 1,500(1,800)
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag