Growing Soybeans in Samburu

Soil suitability analysis based on Samburu's nutrient profile

Samburu County is a challenging environment for Soybeans (soil-match score 18/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.28 the soil sits above Soybeans's preferred 5–7 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 Soybeans's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Soybeans 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 Soybeans's minimum of 600 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 75/kg) and a typical 550 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Soybeans crop here can gross roughly KES 41,250 per acre.