Growing Beetroot in Tharaka Nithi
Soil suitability analysis based on Tharaka Nithi's nutrient profile
Tharaka Nithi County is a solid choice for Beetroot, with a soil-match score of 61/100. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Beetroot's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is phosphorus — measured at N 1.23 g/kg, P 19.6 mg/kg, K 211 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Beetroot, which favours loam. Beetroot's full potential is about 10,000 kg/acre (~KES 500,000/acre at KES 50/kg), but at Tharaka Nithi's 61/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 7,625 kg/acre (~KES 381,250/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Tharaka Nithi soil | Beetroot 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 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 211 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 900 mm | 500–1,200 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,100 m | 800–2,500 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag