Growing Rice (Lowland/Paddy) in Vihiga
Soil suitability analysis based on Vihiga's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Vihiga is moderately suited to Rice (Lowland/Paddy). Vihiga's soil (pH 5.62, slightly acidic) gives Rice (Lowland/Paddy) a suitability score of 70/100. Match fertilizer to Vihiga's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Vihiga County is a solid choice for Rice (Lowland/Paddy), with a soil-match score of 70/100. Local soils average pH 5.62 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 4.5–7 band Rice (Lowland/Paddy) prefers, so no lime is usually required. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 1.02 g/kg, P 14.8 mg/kg, K 164 mg/kg against this crop's high/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly clay loam soils suit Rice (Lowland/Paddy), which favours clay. Rice (Lowland/Paddy)'s full potential is about 2,600 kg/acre (~KES 260,000/acre at KES 100/kg), but at Vihiga's 70/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 2,275 kg/acre (~KES 227,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Vihiga soil | Rice (Lowland/Paddy) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.62 | 4.5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.02 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 14.8 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 164 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,800 mm | 1,100–2,000 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–1,500 m | High |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag