Growing Chilies in Trans Nzoia

Soil suitability analysis based on Trans Nzoia's nutrient profile

Trans Nzoia County is a challenging environment for Chilies (soil-match score 33/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.93 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Chilies's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.68 g/kg), phosphorus (27.3 mg/kg) and potassium (213 mg/kg) all meet Chilies's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Chilies prefers sandy loam soils, while Trans Nzoia is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At 1900 m, the county sits above Chilies's preferred altitude ceiling of 1200 m, where frost risk and cold nights reduce the crop's productivity. Chilies's full potential is about 2,500 kg/acre (~KES 412,500/acre at KES 165/kg), but at Trans Nzoia's 33/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 1,031 kg/acre (~KES 170,115/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.