Growing Arrow Root in Tharaka Nithi
Soil suitability analysis based on Tharaka Nithi's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Tharaka Nithi is moderately suited to Arrow Root. Tharaka Nithi's soil (pH 4.99, strongly acidic) gives Arrow Root a suitability score of 63/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Tharaka Nithi County is a solid choice for Arrow Root, with a soil-match score of 63/100. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Arrow Root's preferred 5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.23 g/kg), phosphorus (19.6 mg/kg) and potassium (211 mg/kg) all meet Arrow Root's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Arrow Root prefers clay loam soils, while Tharaka Nithi is largely sandy loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Arrow Root's full potential is about 5,000 kg/acre (~KES 275,000/acre at KES 55/kg), but at Tharaka Nithi's 63/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 3,938 kg/acre (~KES 216,590/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Tharaka Nithi soil | Arrow Root needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.99 | 5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.23 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 19.6 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 211 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 900 mm | 1,000–2,000 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 1,100 m | 0–1,800 m | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag