Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Meru
Soil suitability analysis based on Meru's nutrient profile
Possible but challenging — Meru is only marginally suited to Sesame (Simsim). Meru's soil (pH 4.88, strongly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 44/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Meru County is a challenging environment for Sesame (Simsim) (soil-match score 44/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 4.88 the soil is strongly acidic, below Sesame (Simsim)'s preferred 5.5–7 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. Nitrogen (1.22 g/kg), phosphorus (20.3 mg/kg) and potassium (218 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Meru is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #79 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Meru County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Meru's 44/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 138 kg/acre (~KES 48,300/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Meru's soil: Tea, Avocado, and Macadamia — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Meru soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 4.88 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.22 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 20.3 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 218 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,400 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