Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Trans Nzoia
Soil suitability analysis based on Trans Nzoia's nutrient profile
Sesame (Simsim) can be grown in Trans Nzoia County, but the soil scores 49/100 and needs targeted management to reach full potential. Local soils average pH 5.93 — slightly acidic to near-neutral and inside the 5.5–7 band Sesame (Simsim) prefers, so no lime is usually required. Nitrogen (1.68 g/kg), phosphorus (27.3 mg/kg) and potassium (213 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sesame (Simsim) prefers sandy soils, while Trans Nzoia is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At current prices (about KES 350/kg) and a typical 180 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Sesame (Simsim) crop here can gross roughly KES 63,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Trans Nzoia soil | Sesame (Simsim) needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.93 | 5.5–7 | OK |
| Nitrogen | 1.68 g/kg | min 0.5 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 27.3 mg/kg | min 6 mg/kg | OK |
| Potassium | 213 mg/kg | min 100 mg/kg | OK |
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag