Growing Cassava in Nyeri
Soil suitability analysis based on Nyeri's nutrient profile
Nyeri County is a solid choice for Cassava, with a soil-match score of 60/100. Local soils average pH 5.23 — moderately acidic and inside the 4.5–7 band Cassava prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.09 g/kg), phosphorus (15.5 mg/kg) and potassium (192 mg/kg) all meet Cassava's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Cassava prefers sandy soils, while Nyeri is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At 1700 m, the county sits above Cassava's preferred altitude ceiling of 1400 m, where frost risk and cold nights reduce the crop's productivity. Cassava's full potential is about 6,000 kg/acre (~KES 90,000/acre at KES 15/kg), but at Nyeri's 60/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 4,500 kg/acre (~KES 67,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Nyeri soil | Cassava needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.23 | 4.5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.09 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 15.5 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 192 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 500–1,500 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–1,400 m | High |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag