Growing Sisal in Nyandarua

Soil suitability analysis based on Nyandarua's nutrient profile

Nyandarua County is a challenging environment for Sisal (soil-match score 29/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.38 the soil is moderately acidic, below Sisal's preferred 5.5–8.5 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 Sisal's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sisal prefers sandy soils, while Nyandarua is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At 2300 m, the county sits above Sisal's preferred altitude ceiling of 1800 m, where frost risk and cold nights reduce the crop's productivity. At current prices (about KES 90/kg) and a typical 900 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Sisal crop here can gross roughly KES 81,000 per acre.