Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Kirinyaga

Soil suitability analysis based on Kirinyaga's nutrient profile

Sesame (Simsim) can be grown in Kirinyaga County, but the soil scores 55/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 5.31 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 (1.36 g/kg), phosphorus (12.5 mg/kg) and potassium (177 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Kirinyaga is largely clay, 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.