Growing Dhania in Samburu

Soil suitability analysis based on Samburu's nutrient profile

Samburu County is a challenging environment for Dhania (soil-match score 30/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.28 the soil sits above Dhania's preferred 6–7.5 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.67 g/kg), phosphorus (42.1 mg/kg) and potassium (387 mg/kg) all meet Dhania's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Dhania prefers loam soils, while Samburu is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Samburu receives approximately 350 mm/year — well below Dhania's minimum of 500 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 75/kg) and a typical 900 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Dhania crop here can gross roughly KES 67,500 per acre.