Growing Maize in Nyeri
Soil suitability analysis based on Nyeri's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Nyeri is moderately suited to Maize. Nyeri's soil (pH 5.23, strongly acidic) gives Maize a suitability score of 73/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Nyeri County is a solid choice for Maize, with a soil-match score of 73/100. At an average pH of 5.23 the soil is moderately acidic, below Maize's preferred 5.5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen and phosphorus — measured at N 1.09 g/kg, P 15.5 mg/kg, K 192 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. Maize prefers loam soils, while Nyeri is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Maize is the #22 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Nyeri County. At current prices (about KES 45/kg) and a typical 1,800 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Maize crop here can gross roughly KES 81,000 per acre.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Nyeri soil | Maize needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.23 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.09 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 15.5 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 192 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 500–1,600 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–2,500 m | OK |
Planting calendar for Nyeri
Long Rains· March–MayMain season here
Short Rains· October–December
Dry Season· January–March
Top dressing guide
Nyeri's nitrogen (1.09 g/kg) is 91% of the 1.2 g/kg Maize needs, so the standard 1 bag/acre is raised to 1.25. Split it across two applications to limit leaching.
Seed varieties for Nyeri
18 maize varieties are rated for Nyeri's altitude (1,700 m) and rainfall (1,200 mm):
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag