Growing Oilseed Rape (Canola) in Vihiga

Soil suitability analysis based on Vihiga's nutrient profile

Vihiga County is a challenging environment for Oilseed Rape (Canola) (soil-match score 35/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.62 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Oilseed Rape (Canola)'s preferred 5.8–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is nitrogen and phosphorus — measured at N 1.02 g/kg, P 14.8 mg/kg, K 164 mg/kg against this crop's high/high/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. 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 Vihiga's 35/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 438 kg/acre (~KES 26,280/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.