Introduction

Sorghum is a type of cereal grain that is grown for its edible seeds. It is a versatile crop that can be used for food, animal feed, or even biofuels. Growing sorghum requires a bit of knowledge and planning, but it can be a rewarding experience. In this article, we will discuss how to plant sorghum.

Step 1: Choose the Right Time to Plant

The first step in planting sorghum is to choose the right time to plant. Sorghum is a warm-weather crop, so it should be planted after the soil has warmed up in the spring. This is typically around late April or early May, depending on your location. Make sure the soil temperature is around 60掳F to 65掳F, as sorghum seeds germinate best at this temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

The next step is to prepare the soil. Sorghum grows best in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. You can test your soil's pH with a soil test kit. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH level. If it's too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH. Till the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches and remove any weeds or rocks.

Step 3: Plant the Sorghum Seeds

Once the soil is prepared, it's time to plant the sorghum seeds. Sorghum seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 to 2 inches and spaced 6 to 12 inches apart in rows that are 30 to 36 inches apart. You can plant the seeds by hand or with a seed drill. After planting, water the seeds well to help them germinate.

Step 4: Care for the Sorghum Plants

After the sorghum seeds have germinated, it's time to care for the plants. Make sure the plants are getting enough water, especially during dry spells. Sorghum is a drought-tolerant crop, but it still needs water to produce a good yield. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer about 4 to 6 weeks after planting. You can also apply a nitrogen fertilizer at the same time to promote growth.

Step 5: Harvest the Sorghum

Sorghum is ready to harvest when the seeds have turned brown and are hard. This typically occurs around 100 to 120 days after planting. Cut the sorghum stalks at ground level and hang them upside down to dry for a few weeks. Once the stalks are dry, you can thresh the seeds by beating the stalks with a stick or flail. You can then separate the seeds from the chaff by winnowing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting sorghum requires a bit of knowledge and planning, but it can be a rewarding experience. Choose the right time to plant, prepare the soil, plant the sorghum seeds, care for the plants, and harvest the sorghum. With these steps, you can successfully grow your own sorghum crop.