Sorghum cultivation is typically divided into two main seasons: spring and autumn. The optimal time for spring planting is from late March to mid-April, according to the lunar calendar. It's important not to plant too early, as low temperatures can slow growth and increase the risk of cold damage. Autumn planting should take place between late May and late June on the lunar calendar, and it’s essential not to delay planting too much, as cooler temperatures later in the season can affect germination and delay maturity.
The general steps involved in sorghum farming are as follows:
**Soil Preparation:** Begin by spreading compost over the field, then plow the soil to a depth of 12–15 cm (4–5 inches). This helps break up the soil, remove weeds, and create a level surface. Mark rows approximately 40–50 cm apart and dig shallow furrows about 6 cm deep.
**Seeding Rate:** A typical seeding rate is around 15–20 kg per hectare. Seeds can be sourced from local agricultural associations or seed banks.
**Seeding Method:** There are two common sowing techniques: broadcast and drill planting. Most farmers use the drill method, where seeds are evenly distributed in the furrows and covered with about 3 cm of soil.
**Fertilization Techniques:**
1. **Spring and Autumn Crops:** Apply compost before plowing, and mix it into the soil. Use half of the phosphate fertilizer along with half of the nitrogen and potassium as a base fertilizer before planting. The remaining half of the nitrogen and potassium should be applied 30 days after sowing.
2. **Perennial Root Cultivation:** After harvesting the main crop, apply half of the fertilizer 10 days later, and the other half 30 days post-harvest. Ensure that the fertilizer is placed 10–15 cm away from the plants to avoid root burn.
**Field Management:**
1. **Thinning and Replanting:** About 20–25 days after sowing, when the seedlings reach 15 cm in height, perform the first thinning. Repeat this process when the plants grow to 25–30 cm, leaving a spacing of about 10 cm between them. If some plants are missing, you can transplant strong seedlings to fill the gaps.
2. **Weeding and Intercultivation:** During the growing season, cultivate and weed the field 2–3 times, especially during the early stages of growth. Remove weeds promptly to prevent competition for nutrients and water. If herbicides are used, apply them before germination, right after sowing.
3. **Hilling Up:** After the first weeding, apply top dressing near the base of the plants. Then, mound soil around the stems to support the plants and prevent lodging, which helps improve growth and stability.
4. **Irrigation and Drainage:** Sorghum is drought-tolerant, but during critical growth stages—such as young ear formation (around 35 days after sowing), milk filling stage (about 60 days after sowing), and grain filling (around 75 days after sowing)—adequate irrigation is crucial for yield. In rainy seasons, ensure proper drainage to reduce the risk of pests and diseases, and to help the crop mature properly.
**Perennial (Regeneration) Cultivation:**
1. **Cutting Stems:** When harvesting in spring, cut the stem just 1–2 cm above the ground. The sooner the cut is made, the better for regrowth.
2. **Fertilization:** Follow the same fertilization schedule and type as outlined earlier.
3. **Bud Thinning:** After cutting, each plant may produce 2–5 buds. However, only two buds should be left per plant. Remove the extra buds as soon as possible to conserve nutrients and promote stronger regrowth.
4. **Other Management Practices:** Tasks such as weeding, cultivation, and harvesting follow the same procedures as regular sorghum cultivation. With proper care, perennial sorghum can provide multiple harvests over several years.
Safey Shoes,Leather Ankle Safety Shoes,Industrial Safety Shoes Outsole,Mesh Safety Shoes
Brightway Shoes Co., Ltd. , https://www.brightwaysafety.com