How to Grow Sorghum in Arkansas

Sorghum is an incredibly versatile and resilient crop that has gained popularity among Arkansas farmers. Known for its drought resistance and adaptability to various soil types, sorghum can be a great choice for both grain production and forage. In this article, we will explore the essential steps and considerations for successfully growing sorghum in Arkansas.

Understanding Sorghum

Before diving into the growing process, it’s important to understand what sorghum is and its benefits. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a cereal grain that thrives in warm climates, making it well-suited for the southern United States, including Arkansas. This crop can be used for various purposes, such as animal feed, biofuel production, and human consumption (including gluten-free products).

Types of Sorghum

There are several types of sorghum, each suited for different purposes:

1. Grain Sorghum: Primarily grown for its seeds, which can be used for food or livestock feed.
2. Sweet Sorghum: Grown mainly for its high sugar content and often used to produce syrup or ethanol.
3. Forage Sorghum: Used primarily as fodder for livestock due to its high biomass yield.

In Arkansas, grain sorghum is the most common variety cultivated.

Choosing the Right Varieties

Choosing the right sorghum variety is crucial for successful cultivation. When selecting seeds, consider factors such as:

• Adaptability: Ensure that the variety is well-suited to Arkansas’s climate and soil conditions.
• Disease Resistance: Look for varieties that are resistant to common diseases like head blight and anthracnose.
• Yield Potential: Research local yield data to find varieties that perform well in your area.

Popular sorghum varieties in Arkansas include ‘DKS 53-67’ and ‘Pioneer 84G62’, both known for their high yields and adaptability.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Soil Requirements

Sorghum thrives in well-drained soils with good fertility. Here are some key soil considerations:

• pH Level: Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
• Soil Type: Light soils are preferred, but sorghum can also grow in heavier clay soils as long as they drain well.
• Nutrient Management: Conduct a soil test before planting to determine nutrient needs. Essential nutrients include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).

Climate Considerations

Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters—ideal conditions for growing sorghum. Here are some climate-related factors to consider:

• Temperature: Sorghum requires warm temperatures to germinate (ideally 60°F or above) and grow effectively. The growing season typically lasts from late spring until early fall.
• Rainfall: While drought-tolerant, sorghum still requires adequate rainfall—about 20 inches during the growing season. Monitor weather patterns closely.

Planting Sorghum

Timing

In Arkansas, the ideal planting window for sorghum is usually from late April to early June. This timing allows the crop to take advantage of the warm growing season while avoiding late spring frost.

Seeding Rate

The seeding rate typically ranges between 80,000 to 120,000 seeds per acre. Adjust according to the specific variety being planted and local conditions. A higher seeding rate may be beneficial in environments with high weed pressure or suboptimal soil fertility.

Planting Depth

Plant seeds at a depth of about 1 to 2 inches. This depth helps protect seedlings from pests while ensuring adequate moisture for germination.

Crop Management

Irrigation

While sorghum is drought-resistant, irrigation during dry spells can significantly boost yields. Utilize drip or sprinkler systems tailored for efficient water use:

1. Early Growth Stage: Water during this period helps establish healthy roots.
2. Flowering Stage: Adequate moisture is critical during flowering to set grain size.

Fertilization

A comprehensive fertilizer program will enhance growth and increase yields:

• Nitrogen: Apply nitrogen at planting and again during early tillering.
• Phosphorus & Potassium: Follow soil test recommendations for these nutrients.

Pest & Disease Management

Regular monitoring of crops is essential for managing pests and diseases effectively:

1. Common Pests: Be on the lookout for aphids, corn earworms, and cutworms.
2. Disease Control: Implement crop rotation and resistant varieties to minimize disease impact. Fungicides may be required during adverse weather conditions.

Weed Control

Weed competition can significantly reduce sorghum yields; therefore, a robust weed management plan should include:

• Pre-emergence Herbicides: Apply these before seedlings break through the surface.
• Cultivation Practices: Mechanical weeding can help reduce competition without harming crops.

Harvesting Sorghum

Timing your harvest correctly is vital for maximizing grain quality and yield. Signs that your sorghum is ready for harvest include:

• Color Change: When grains turn from green to a deep amber or tan color.
• Moisture Content: Aim for a moisture content of around 13% to 15% at harvest time.

Harvesting Techniques

Most farmers use combines equipped with specialized headers designed for harvesting small grains like sorghum. Properly calibrating your equipment ensures minimal loss during harvest.

Post-Harvest Management

After harvesting, proper handling of sorghum grain is essential:

• Drying: Ensure grains are adequately dried before storage to prevent spoilage.
• Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry conditions away from pests.

Utilizing By-products

If you’ve grown forage sorghum or sweet sorghum, consider utilizing by-products effectively:

• Use stalks as animal bedding or compost material.
• Sweet sorghum can be processed into syrup or biofuel.

Conclusion

Growing sorghum in Arkansas can be a rewarding endeavor given its numerous benefits and adaptability to local conditions. By selecting appropriate varieties, managing soil health effectively, controlling pests and diseases diligently, and timing planting and harvest correctly, farmers can optimize their yields while contributing positively to sustainable agricultural practices.

With proper knowledge and dedicated management efforts, sorghum can thrive in Arkansas’s diverse agricultural landscape—serving as an excellent addition or alternative within your farming operations. Embrace this resilient crop as you work towards achieving your farming goals!