Growing Kale (Sukuma Wiki) in Turkana
Soil suitability analysis based on Turkana's nutrient profile
Turkana County is a challenging environment for Kale (Sukuma Wiki) (soil-match score 5/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 7.95 the soil sits above Kale (Sukuma Wiki)'s preferred 5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.41 g/kg, P 38.5 mg/kg, K 417 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. Kale (Sukuma Wiki) prefers clay loam soils, while Turkana is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Turkana receives approximately 300 mm/year — well below Kale (Sukuma Wiki)'s minimum of 700 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 20/kg) and a typical 5,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Kale (Sukuma Wiki) crop here can gross roughly KES 100,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Turkana soil | Kale (Sukuma Wiki) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.95 | 5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.41 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 38.5 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 417 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag