Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Busia

Soil suitability analysis based on Busia's nutrient profile

Sesame (Simsim) can be grown in Busia County, but the soil scores 50/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.29 the soil is moderately acidic, below Sesame (Simsim)'s preferred 5.5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (0.91 g/kg), phosphorus (16.6 mg/kg) and potassium (175 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Busia is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At current prices (about KES 350/kg) and a typical 180 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Sesame (Simsim) crop here can gross roughly KES 63,000 per acre.