Growing Potato in Samburu
Soil suitability analysis based on Samburu's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Samburu is poorly suited to Potato. Samburu's soil (pH 8.28, alkaline) gives Potato a suitability score of 4/100. Match fertilizer to Samburu's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Samburu County is a challenging environment for Potato (soil-match score 4/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.28 the soil sits above Potato's preferred 4.8–6.5 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/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Potato, which favours sandy loam. Samburu receives approximately 350 mm/year — well below Potato's minimum of 700 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Potato's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 304,000/acre at KES 38/kg), but at Samburu's 4/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 400 kg/acre (~KES 15,200/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Samburu soil | Potato needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.28 | 4.8–6.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.67 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 42.1 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 387 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 350 mm | 700–1,500 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 900 m | 1,500–3,000 m | Low |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag