Growing Lucerne in West Pokot
Soil suitability analysis based on West Pokot's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — West Pokot is moderately suited to Lucerne. West Pokot's soil (pH 6.04, slightly acidic) gives Lucerne a suitability score of 65/100. Match fertilizer to West Pokot's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
West Pokot County is a solid choice for Lucerne, with a soil-match score of 65/100. At an average pH of 6.04 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Lucerne's preferred 6.5–8 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.67 g/kg), phosphorus (24.8 mg/kg) and potassium (211 mg/kg) all meet Lucerne's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Lucerne prefers clay loam soils, while West Pokot is largely sandy loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Lucerne's full potential is about 8,000 kg/acre (~KES 224,000/acre at KES 28/kg), but at West Pokot's 65/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 6,500 kg/acre (~KES 182,000/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | West Pokot soil | Lucerne needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.04 | 6.5–8 | Adjust |
| 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 200 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,000 mm | 400–800 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 0–2,500 m | OK |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag