Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Elgeyo Marakwet
Soil suitability analysis based on Elgeyo Marakwet's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Elgeyo Marakwet is moderately suited to Sesame (Simsim). Elgeyo Marakwet's soil (pH 6.27, slightly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 65/100. Match fertilizer to Elgeyo Marakwet's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Elgeyo Marakwet County is a solid choice for Sesame (Simsim), with a soil-match score of 65/100. Local soils average pH 6.27 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5.5–7 band Sesame (Simsim) prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.39 g/kg), phosphorus (22.2 mg/kg) and potassium (213 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Elgeyo Marakwet is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #85 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Elgeyo Marakwet County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Elgeyo Marakwet's 65/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 203 kg/acre (~KES 71,050/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Elgeyo Marakwet soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 6.27 | 5.5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.39 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 22.2 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 213 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,000 mm | 300–800 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,800 m | 0–1,600 m | High |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag