Growing Maize in Samburu

Soil suitability analysis based on Samburu's nutrient profile

Samburu County is a challenging environment for Maize (soil-match score 23/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.28 the soil sits above Maize's preferred 5.5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.67 g/kg, P 42.1 mg/kg, K 387 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Maize 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 Maize's minimum of 500 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Maize's full potential is about 1,800 kg/acre (~KES 81,000/acre at KES 45/kg), but at Samburu's 23/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 518 kg/acre (~KES 23,310/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.