Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Marsabit
Soil suitability analysis based on Marsabit's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Marsabit is moderately suited to Sesame (Simsim). Marsabit's soil (pH 8.22, alkaline) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 57/100. Match fertilizer to Marsabit's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Sesame (Simsim) can be grown in Marsabit County, but the soil scores 57/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 8.22 the soil sits above Sesame (Simsim)'s preferred 5.5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.52 g/kg), phosphorus (37.3 mg/kg) and potassium (420 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Sesame (Simsim), which favours sandy. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #10 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Marsabit County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Marsabit'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 Marsabit's soil: Sisal, Chia, and Aloe Vera — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Marsabit soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.22 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.52 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 37.3 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 420 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 300 mm | 300–800 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 1,100 m | 0–1,600 m | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag