Growing Chia in Nyamira

Soil suitability analysis based on Nyamira's nutrient profile

Nyamira County is a challenging environment for Chia (soil-match score 34/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.58 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Chia's preferred 6–8 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is phosphorus — measured at N 0.84 g/kg, P 11.6 mg/kg, K 148 mg/kg against this crop's low/medium/low demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Chia prefers sandy loam soils, while Nyamira is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Chia's full potential is about 400 kg/acre (~KES 60,000/acre at KES 150/kg), but at Nyamira's 34/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 170 kg/acre (~KES 25,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.