The Soils of Sangurur - Kapsowar - Chesoi Area, Elgeyo Marakwet District, 1984

Abstract

This report describes the soil conditions of the Sangurur-Kapsowar-Chesoi area of the Elgeyo Marakwet District an area of approximately 89,300 ha which lies at an altitude between 1000 to 3400 metres above sea level. The investigation restricts itself to the physical and chemical soil limitations and the topography of the land. In order to allow for a comprehensive land suita- bility classification for rainfed cultivation of coffee and tea, due consideration was also put on the agro- climatic requirements. The general pattern of the soils is shown on the soil map (appendix 2). The soils vary widely on soil depth, rockiness and stoniness, parent material, texture and the occurrence of a thick humic topsoil. Each soil mapping unit has been evaluated separately for the defined uses coffee and tea production.