Growing Tree Tomato (Tamarillo) in Tharaka Nithi

Soil suitability analysis based on Tharaka Nithi's nutrient profile

Tharaka Nithi County is a challenging environment for Tree Tomato (Tamarillo) (soil-match score 36/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 4.99 the soil is strongly acidic, below Tree Tomato (Tamarillo)'s preferred 5.8–7 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 Tree Tomato (Tamarillo), which favours loam. Tree Tomato (Tamarillo)'s full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 640,000/acre at KES 80/kg), but at Tharaka Nithi's 36/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 3,600 kg/acre (~KES 288,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.