Growing Cauliflower in Vihiga
Soil suitability analysis based on Vihiga's nutrient profile
Vihiga County is a solid choice for Cauliflower, with a soil-match score of 61/100. At an average pH of 5.62 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Cauliflower's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — measured at N 1.02 g/kg, P 14.8 mg/kg, K 164 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/high demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Cauliflower, which favours loam. Cauliflower's full potential is about 10,000 kg/acre (~KES 600,000/acre at KES 60/kg), but at Vihiga's 61/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 7,625 kg/acre (~KES 457,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Vihiga soil | Cauliflower needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.62 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.02 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 14.8 mg/kg | min 20 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 164 mg/kg | min 200 mg/kg | Low |
| Rainfall | 1,800 mm | 700–1,500 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 1,200–2,800 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag