Explore the essentials of sorghum cultivation, from choosing soil to pest management. Perfect for learners seeking solid foundations in growing this resilient crop.
Which type of soil is considered most suitable for sowing sorghum to achieve optimal yield?
Explanation: Well-drained loamy soil provides the right texture and nutrients for healthy sorghum growth. Acidic clay soil can restrict root development, rocky gravel soil has poor water retention, and highly saline soil can lead to stunted plants and reduced yields.
During which season is it generally recommended to sow sorghum seeds for maximum productivity in most subtropical regions?
Explanation: Early summer offers warm temperatures and moisture that help sorghum seeds germinate well. Late winter is usually too cold, mid autumn limits the crop's growing season, and early spring might face lingering low temperatures.
What is the recommended row-to-row spacing for sorghum seeds to promote healthy plant development?
Explanation: 45 cm row spacing allows for proper sunlight and airflow, which reduces disease risk and supports growth. 15 cm and 5 cm are too narrow, leading to overcrowding, while 100 cm wastes space and can reduce yield per area.
After sowing sorghum seeds, what is the most essential irrigation practice for successful establishment?
Explanation: Light watering immediately after sowing ensures soil moisture for germination without causing seed rot. Flood or continuous heavy watering can lead to poor aeration or seed decay, and delaying irrigation can result in poor germination.
Which pest is commonly known to attack sorghum crops and can significantly impact yield?
Explanation: Sorghum shoot fly is a major pest causing deadheart in young plants, reducing yields. Colorado potato beetle targets potatoes, rice stem borer mainly affects rice, and aphid lion is actually a beneficial insect, not a pest.