Growing Green Grams in Tharaka Nithi
Soil suitability analysis based on Tharaka Nithi's nutrient profile
Green Grams can be grown in Tharaka Nithi County, but the soil scores 55/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Green Grams's preferred 5.5–8 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 Green Grams's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Green Grams, which favours sandy loam. At current prices (about KES 120/kg) and a typical 300 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Green Grams crop here can gross roughly KES 36,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Tharaka Nithi soil | Green Grams needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.99 | 5.5–8 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.23 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 19.6 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 211 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag