Soils and Vegetation of the ICRAF Experimental Farm (Machakos District), Detailed Soil Survey Report No.D23, 1981

Abstract

The survey area covers approximately 42 ha. It lies between latitudes o 0. 0 0 1 30'S and 1 35'S and long1tudes 37 and 37 IS'E and at a mean altitude of 1560 metres above sea level. The survey area experiences two short rainfall periods: March-May and October-December with average seasonal rainfall values ranging from 340 to 4lOmm (former Period) and 310 and 370mm for the latter period. The two rainfall periods are separated by a long dry season (June-Sept.) with an average 5 mm of rainfall per month, resulting in a severe water shortage. The area falls within agro-climatic zones IV and V which point to a medium to marginal agricultural potential.