Growing Rice (Lowland/Paddy) in Taita Taveta

Soil suitability analysis based on Taita Taveta's nutrient profile

Taita Taveta County is a challenging environment for Rice (Lowland/Paddy) (soil-match score 15/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. Local soils average pH 6.64 — neutral and inside the 4.5–7 band Rice (Lowland/Paddy) prefers, so no lime is usually required. The main gap is nitrogen and potassium — measured at N 0.97 g/kg, P 12.9 mg/kg, K 104 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. Rice (Lowland/Paddy) prefers clay soils, while Taita Taveta is largely loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Taita Taveta receives approximately 500 mm/year — well below Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s minimum of 1100 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s full potential is about 2,600 kg/acre (~KES 260,000/acre at KES 100/kg), but at Taita Taveta's 15/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 488 kg/acre (~KES 48,800/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.