Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Nyamira
Soil suitability analysis based on Nyamira's nutrient profile
Generally not ideal — Nyamira is poorly suited to Sesame (Simsim). Nyamira's soil (pH 5.58, slightly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 38/100. Match fertilizer to Nyamira's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Nyamira County is a challenging environment for Sesame (Simsim) (soil-match score 38/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. Local soils average pH 5.58 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5.5–7 band Sesame (Simsim) prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (0.84 g/kg), phosphorus (11.6 mg/kg) and potassium (148 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Nyamira is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #90 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Nyamira County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Nyamira's 38/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 119 kg/acre (~KES 41,650/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Better matched to Nyamira's soil: Sweet Potato, Soybeans, and Pineapple — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Nyamira soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.58 | 5.5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 0.84 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 11.6 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 148 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,600 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