Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Kisii
Soil suitability analysis based on Kisii's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Kisii is poorly suited to Sesame (Simsim). Kisii's soil (pH 5.21, strongly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 39/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Kisii County is a challenging environment for Sesame (Simsim) (soil-match score 39/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.21 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 (1.09 g/kg), phosphorus (13.1 mg/kg) and potassium (151 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Kisii is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #85 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Kisii County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Kisii's 39/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 122 kg/acre (~KES 42,700/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Kisii's soil: Tea, Macadamia, and Pineapple — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Kisii soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.21 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.09 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 13.1 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 151 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,500 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