Growing Chia in Tharaka Nithi

Soil suitability analysis based on Tharaka Nithi's nutrient profile

Chia can be grown in Tharaka Nithi County, but the soil scores 57/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Chia's preferred 6–8 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 Chia's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Chia, which favours sandy loam. Chia's full potential is about 400 kg/acre (~KES 60,000/acre at KES 150/kg), but at Tharaka Nithi's 57/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 285 kg/acre (~KES 42,750/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.