Growing Rice (Lowland/Paddy) in Samburu

Soil suitability analysis based on Samburu's nutrient profile

Samburu County is a challenging environment for Rice (Lowland/Paddy) (soil-match score 4/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.28 the soil sits above Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s preferred 4.5–7 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/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Rice (Lowland/Paddy) prefers clay soils, while Samburu is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Samburu receives approximately 350 mm/year — well below Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s minimum of 1100 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 100/kg) and a typical 2,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Rice (Lowland/Paddy) crop here can gross roughly KES 200,000 per acre.