Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Siaya
Soil suitability analysis based on Siaya's nutrient profile
Yes, with the right inputs — Siaya is moderately suited to Sesame (Simsim). Siaya's soil (pH 5.33, strongly acidic) gives Sesame (Simsim) a suitability score of 61/100. Apply agricultural lime before planting to unlock phosphorus and lift the score.
Siaya County is a solid choice for Sesame (Simsim), with a soil-match score of 61/100. At an average pH of 5.33 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 (1.2 g/kg), phosphorus (12.1 mg/kg) and potassium (134 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Siaya is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. On ShambaIQ's soil-match model, Sesame (Simsim) is the #63 soil match of the 106 crops we assess for Siaya County. Sesame (Simsim)'s full potential is about 250 kg/acre (~KES 87,500/acre at KES 350/kg), but at Siaya's 61/100 suitability a realistic target here is closer to 191 kg/acre (~KES 66,850/acre) unless the constraints above are addressed.
Soil & climate match
| Factor | Siaya soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.33 | 5.5–7 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 1.2 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 12.1 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 134 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
| Rainfall | 1,200 mm | 300–800 mm | High |
| Altitude | 1,200 m | 0–1,600 m | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag