Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Kiambu
Soil suitability analysis based on Kiambu's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Kiambu is moderately suited to Sesame (Simsim). Kiambu's soil (pH 5.28, strongly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 57/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Sesame (Simsim) can be grown in Kiambu County, but the soil scores 57/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.28 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 (1.01 g/kg), phosphorus (13.7 mg/kg) and potassium (169 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Kiambu is largely clay, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #75 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Kiambu County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Kiambu's 57/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 178 kg/acre (~KES 62,300/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Kiambu's soil: Macadamia, Avocado, and Pineapple — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kiambu soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.28 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.01 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 13.7 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 169 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,100 mm | 300–800 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,700 m | 0–1,600 m | High |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag