Growing Quinoa in West Pokot
Soil suitability analysis based on West Pokot's nutrient profile
West Pokot County is a solid choice for Quinoa, with a soil-match score of 65/100. Local soils average pH 6.04 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 6–8.5 band Quinoa prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.67 g/kg), phosphorus (24.8 mg/kg) and potassium (211 mg/kg) all meet Quinoa's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy loam soils suit Quinoa, which favours loam. Quinoa's full potential is about 700 kg/acre (~KES 105,000/acre at KES 150/kg), but at West Pokot's 65/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 569 kg/acre (~KES 85,350/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | West Pokot soil | Quinoa needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.04 | 6–8.5 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.67 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 24.8 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 211 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,000 mm | 300–800 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 1,500–3,000 m | OK |
Planting calendar
Long Rains
Short Rains
Top dressing guide
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag