Growing Lucerne in Samburu
Soil suitability analysis based on Samburu's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Samburu is moderately suited to Lucerne. Samburu's soil (pH 8.28, alkaline) gives Lucerne a suitability score of 55/100. Match fertilizer to Samburu's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Lucerne can be grown in Samburu County, but the soil scores 55/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 8.28 the soil sits above Lucerne's preferred 6.5–8 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 Lucerne's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Lucerne prefers clay loam soils, while Samburu is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Lucerne's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 224,000/acre at KES 28/kg), but at Samburu's 55/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 5,500 kg/acre (~KES 154,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Samburu soil | Lucerne needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.28 | 6.5–8 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.67 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 42.1 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 387 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 350 mm | 400–800 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 900 m | 0–2,500 m | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag