Growing Kale (Sukuma Wiki) in Wajir
Soil suitability analysis based on Wajir's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Wajir is poorly suited to Kale (Sukuma Wiki). Wajir's soil (pH 8.4, alkaline) gives Kale (Sukuma Wiki) a suitability score of 1/100. Match fertilizer to Wajir's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Wajir County is a challenging environment for Kale (Sukuma Wiki) (soil-match score 1/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.4 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 0.52 g/kg, P 39.3 mg/kg, K 396 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 Wajir is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Wajir receives approximately 200 mm/year — well below Kale (Sukuma Wiki)'s minimum of 700 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Kale (Sukuma Wiki)'s full potential is about 12,000 kg/acre (~KES 240,000/acre at KES 20/kg), but at Wajir's 1/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 150 kg/acre (~KES 3,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Wajir soil | Kale (Sukuma Wiki) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.4 | 5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.52 g/kg | min 1.2 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 39.3 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 396 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 200 mm | 700–1,800 mm | Low |
| Altitude | 250 m | 500–2,500 m | Low |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Dry Season
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag