Growing Oilseed Rape (Canola) in Trans Nzoia
Soil suitability analysis based on Trans Nzoia's nutrient profile
Trans Nzoia County is a solid choice for Oilseed Rape (Canola), with a soil-match score of 71/100. Local soils average pH 5.93 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5.8–7.5 band Oilseed Rape (Canola) prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.68 g/kg), phosphorus (27.3 mg/kg) and potassium (213 mg/kg) all meet Oilseed Rape (Canola)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Oilseed Rape (Canola), which favours loam. Oilseed Rape (Canola)'s full potential is about 1,000 kg/acre (~KES 60,000/acre at KES 60/kg), but at Trans Nzoia's 71/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 888 kg/acre (~KES 53,280/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Trans Nzoia soil | Oilseed Rape (Canola) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.93 | 5.8–7.5 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.68 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 27.3 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 213 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 400–900 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,900 m | 1,500–2,800 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag