Growing Chia in West Pokot
Soil suitability analysis based on West Pokot's nutrient profile
West Pokot County is a solid choice for Chia, with a soil-match score of 70/100. Local soils average pH 6.04 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 6–8 band Chia prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.67 g/kg), phosphorus (24.8 mg/kg) and potassium (211 mg/kg) all meet Chia's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Chia, which favours sandy loam. Chia's full potential is about 400 kg/acre (~KES 60,000/acre at KES 150/kg), but at West Pokot's 70/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 350 kg/acre (~KES 52,500/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | West Pokot soil | Chia needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.04 | 6–8 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.67 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 24.8 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 211 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,000 mm | 300–800 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 1,000–2,200 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag