Growing Basil in Tharaka Nithi
Soil suitability analysis based on Tharaka Nithi's nutrient profile
Tharaka Nithi County is a solid choice for Basil, with a soil-match score of 63/100. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Basil's preferred 6–7.5 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 Basil's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Basil, which favours loam. Basil's full potential is about 4,000 kg/acre (~KES 480,000/acre at KES 120/kg), but at Tharaka Nithi's 63/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 3,150 kg/acre (~KES 378,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Tharaka Nithi soil | Basil needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.99 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.23 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 19.6 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 211 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 900 mm | 600–1,200 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,100 m | 0–2,100 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag