Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Kakamega
Soil suitability analysis based on Kakamega's nutrient profile
Possible but challenging — Kakamega is only marginally suited to Sesame (Simsim). Kakamega's soil (pH 5.63, slightly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 44/100. Match fertilizer to Kakamega's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Kakamega County is a challenging environment for Sesame (Simsim) (soil-match score 44/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. Local soils average pH 5.63 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5.5–7 band Sesame (Simsim) prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.01 g/kg), phosphorus (14 mg/kg) and potassium (147 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Kakamega is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #72 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Kakamega County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Kakamega's 44/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 138 kg/acre (~KES 48,300/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Kakamega's soil: Soybeans, Rice (Lowland/Paddy), and Sweet Potato — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kakamega soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.63 | 5.5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.01 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 14 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 147 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,900 mm | 300–800 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,500 m | 0–1,600 m | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag