Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Kirinyaga
Soil suitability analysis based on Kirinyaga's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Kirinyaga is moderately suited to Sesame (Simsim). Kirinyaga's soil (pH 5.31, strongly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 55/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
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. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #75 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Kirinyaga County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Kirinyaga's 55/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 172 kg/acre (~KES 60,200/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Kirinyaga's soil: Tea, Macadamia, and Pineapple — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kirinyaga soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.31 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.36 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 12.5 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 177 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,300 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