Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Samburu
Soil suitability analysis based on Samburu's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Samburu is moderately suited to Sesame (Simsim). Samburu's soil (pH 8.28, alkaline) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 55/100. Match fertilizer to Samburu's nitrogen and phosphorus levels for the best result.
Sesame (Simsim) can be grown in Samburu County, but the soil scores 55/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. At an average pH of 8.28 the soil sits above Sesame (Simsim)'s preferred 5.5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.67 g/kg), phosphorus (42.1 mg/kg) and potassium (387 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 Samburu County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Samburu'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 Samburu's soil: Sisal, Aloe Vera, and Green Grams — each scores higher on the same soil.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Samburu soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 8.28 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.67 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 42.1 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 387 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 350 mm | 300–800 mm | OK |
| Altitude | 900 m | 0–1,600 m | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag