Growing African Nightshade in Nyandarua
Soil suitability analysis based on Nyandarua's nutrient profile
Nyandarua County is a solid choice for African Nightshade, with a soil-match score of 68/100. At an average pH of 5.38 the soil is moderately acidic, below African Nightshade's preferred 5.5–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.28 g/kg), phosphorus (14 mg/kg) and potassium (166 mg/kg) all meet African Nightshade's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. African Nightshade prefers loam soils, while Nyandarua is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At current prices (about KES 50/kg) and a typical 3,500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed African Nightshade crop here can gross roughly KES 175,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Nyandarua soil | African Nightshade needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.38 | 5.5–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.28 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 14 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 166 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag