Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Isiolo
Soil suitability analysis based on Isiolo's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Isiolo is moderately suited to Sesame (Simsim). Isiolo's soil (pH 7.83, alkaline) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 62/100. Match fertilizer to Isiolo's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Isiolo County is a solid choice for Sesame (Simsim), with a soil-match score of 62/100. At an average pH of 7.83 the soil sits above Sesame (Simsim)'s preferred 5.5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. The main gap is nitrogen — measured at N 0.46 g/kg, P 37.4 mg/kg, K 395 mg/kg against this crop's low/low/low demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing that deficit. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Sesame (Simsim), which favours sandy. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #11 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Isiolo County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Isiolo's 62/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 194 kg/acre (~KES 67,900/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Isiolo soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 7.83 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.46 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | Low |
| Phosphorus | 37.4 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 395 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 350 mm | 300–800 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 900 m | 0–1,600 m | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag