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How much water does sorghum need per day?

How much water does sorghum need per day?

A hypothetical daily water requirement of grain sorghum maturing in 120 days from planting. Early in the growing season, average daily water use is low. Approximately 1 to 2.5 mm/day could be enough to avoid water stress. This period is roughly the first 25 to 30 days (up to approximately the 7-leaf stage).

How much rain does sorghum need?

Until recently grain sorghum in the United States (fig. 1) was confined largely to sections having a mean July temperature of 75^ F. or higher, an average frost-free period of 160 days or longer, and an average precipitation of 17 to 40 inches (especially those with 17 to 25 inches).

Does sorghum need irrigation?

Grain sorghum appears to very responsive to deficit irrigation; applying water at critical growth stage to avoid stress, but limiting available water to as low as 60% of the seasonal requirement. Grain Yield was highest at 14 plant/m or 5.3 cm inter plant spacing, under full irrigation.

Can sorghum grow in water?

Grain sorghum production per inch of water is an excellent management tool. Thirty-five growers (70 percent) irrigated with center pivot, and fifteen growers (30 percent) used furrow systems. Irrigation averaged 11.89 inches of water using center pivot and 15.68 inches with furrow systems.

How sorghum is harvested?

Harvest sorghum grain when the seeds can no longer be dented with a fingernail. Cane sorghum should be harvested before the first frost by cutting down stalks with hedge trimmers or a very sharp knife.

Which soil is suitable for sorghum?

sandy loam soils
Sorghum or Jowar crop adapts wide range of soils but grows well in sandy loam soils having good drainage. Soil pH range of 6 to 7.5 is ideal for its cultivation and better growth. The main field should be ploughed and leveled to fine tilth for weeds free sowing.

How long does it take for sorghum to grow?

Keep in mind that how fast a sorghum plant develops is directly related to daily temperature or heat units. Early planting can increase the number of days for sorghum to reach flowering anywhere from 7-25 days, depending on weather conditions and, to a lesser extent, the specific hybrid.

How much water does sorghum use per acre?

Statewide irrigated grain sorghum yields have averaged 111 bushels/acre. Non-irrigated grain sorghum yields averaged 79 bushels/acre during this same period. Peak water use for sorghum is just prior to boot stage. Sorghum will use between 20-22 inches of water during the growing season.

What kind of potassium do you need for sorghum?

Potassium (K) requirements for sorghum are about 50% of corn at the “medium” K soil test level and about 75% at the “very low” level. Equations for determining N, P and K nutrient recommendations for sorghum can be found in (Table 1). Zinc requirements for sorghum and corn are similar (Table 2).

How is UNL extension helping sorghum growers?

With rising fuel prices and efforts to more efficiently utilize water for crop production, UNL Extension is working hard to help producers more effectively and efficiently use water resources while maintaining high crop yields. This page contains UNL Extension resources related to sorghum water use and irrigation management.

What’s the ratio of N to s in sorghum?

Little is known about sorghum’s response to soil sulfur (S). Given the slightly less N needs by sorghum when compared to corn, one would assume that sulfur needs are also somewhat less, because the ratio of N:S in most healthy crop plants is roughly 12-16:1.