Growing Pigeon Peas in Nyandarua

Soil suitability analysis based on Nyandarua's nutrient profile

Nyandarua County is a challenging environment for Pigeon Peas (soil-match score 42/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. Local soils average pH 5.38 — moderately acidic and inside the 5–8 band Pigeon Peas prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.28 g/kg), phosphorus (14 mg/kg) and potassium (166 mg/kg) all meet Pigeon Peas's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Pigeon Peas prefers sandy soils, while Nyandarua is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At 2300 m, the county sits above Pigeon Peas's preferred altitude ceiling of 1800 m, where frost risk and cold nights reduce the crop's productivity. Pigeon Peas's full potential is about 600 kg/acre (~KES 45,000/acre at KES 75/kg), but at Nyandarua's 42/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 315 kg/acre (~KES 23,625/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.