How to Grow Sesame
Sesamum indicum
Sesame needs a long, hot summer to produce seeds. Sow indoors 3 weeks before the last frost date and transplant out when nights are reliably warm. Full sun and well-drained, even sandy soil is ideal — sesame hates wet feet. Pinch growing tips at 60-90cm to encourage branching. Harvest when the lowest capsules start to yellow and crack, then hang stems upside-down to collect seeds before they shatter.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 3 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 15°C and soil has warmed to at least 21°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light balanced feed at transplanting. Avoid excess nitrogen — promotes leaves over seeds.
- Sesame is a long-season tropical annual needing 3-4 months of warm weather. Best suited to warm climates or polytunnel growing in cooler regions. Very drought-tolerant once established but sensitive to waterlogging.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 21°C+
- Germination temperature
- 22–28°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 45 cm |
| Sow depth | 0.5 cm |
| Mature height | 120 cm |
| Mature spread | 40 cm |
Thin to 30cm apart after germination. Wider spacing improves air circulation and reduces disease risk.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 21°C |
| Germination temperature | 22–28°C |
| Base growth temperature | 15°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | short day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Sesame?
- Plant Sesame 30cm apart with 45cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Sesame?
- Sesame is ready to harvest approximately 80 days after transplanting.
- Is Sesame frost hardy?
- Sesame is classified as Tender.
