Growing Turmeric in Narok
Soil suitability analysis based on Narok's nutrient profile
Turmeric can be grown in Narok County, but the soil scores 45/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. Local soils average pH 6.13 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5.5–7.5 band Turmeric prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.63 g/kg), phosphorus (25.7 mg/kg) and potassium (234 mg/kg) all meet Turmeric's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Turmeric, which favours loam. Turmeric's full potential is about 6,000 kg/acre (~KES 480,000/acre at KES 80/kg), but at Narok's 45/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 3,375 kg/acre (~KES 270,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Narok soil | Turmeric needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.13 | 5.5–7.5 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.63 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 25.7 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 234 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 800 mm | 1,000–2,000 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–1,500 m | High |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag