Growing Lucerne in Wajir

Soil suitability analysis based on Wajir's nutrient profile

Wajir County is a challenging environment for Lucerne (soil-match score 17/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.4 the soil sits above Lucerne's preferred 6.5–8 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.52 g/kg), phosphorus (39.3 mg/kg) and potassium (396 mg/kg) all meet Lucerne's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Lucerne 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 Lucerne's minimum of 400 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. Lucerne's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 224,000/acre at KES 28/kg), but at Wajir's 17/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 1,700 kg/acre (~KES 47,600/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.