Sorghum, aka jowar, is one of the renowned cereal crops all across the country. It is a drought-resistant crop suitable for cultivating in both Rabi & Kharif seasons. Sorghum is adaptable to different parts of the country as it can grow in different soil & climatic conditions. Sorghum is an important cereal crop grown in India for food, feed, and fodder. Here are some general steps for cultivating sorghum in India:
Sorghum crops are staple crops edible for us and animals as feed. Moreover, these crops also have a wide range of usage in industrial settings. Indians use this staple crop for traditional cooking. They used to make delicious and nutritious porridge as well as alcoholic beverages.
Sorghum crop is easy to grow & doesn’t require too much water to grow a healthy plant. This crop is suitable for dryland farming areas as it can thrive in less rainfall too. But note that Sorghum’s yield depends on various factors such as soil fertility and infestation from pests & diseases.
Interested in Sorghum cultivation? Before you enquire about the HAV tractor price in India, ensure you get hold of the following technical factors to sow, grow & harvest high-quality crops.
Technical Factors to Sow, Grow & Harvest Sorghum in India
By considering the following factors, you can grow & harvest high-quality sorghum crops in India.
- Soil & Climatic Conditions
Sorghum can grow in a variety of soil & climatic conditions. It can grow in regions with well-distributed dry & hot summers. Moreover, the minimum rainfall required for the Sorghum crop is between 400-500 mm.
Sorghum is a warm-season crop that can manage well in high temperatures. But avoiding extremely hot temperatures is crucial as they can negatively impact crop yield. The crop is highly suitable to grow in semi-arid conditions.
You can grow this crop in various soils, be it in black cotton soils, sandy loam, and loamy soils.
- Seed Selection & Planting
To gain optimum yield, farmers should choose high-quality seeds that are tolerant to pests & diseases. You must plant these seeds at a 2-3 cm depth for optimum yield. Moreover, make sure the spacing between the plants is between 45-60 cm, and for rows, it’s between 20-25 cm.
- Fertilisation & Irrigation
Sorghum requires a balanced fertiliser schedule. To meet that, farmers must supply a good ratio of phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium after completing the soil analysis. The good thing is this crop can sustain well without water. However, just make sure the soil is well-moisturized during the growth stages.
- Weed Control & Pest Management
Controlling weeds in Sorghum farming is crucial as weeds can leach on the nutrients and moisture required for the crop. Farmers can apply weedicides manually, herbicides, or both in different ratios. Sorghum attracts pests and diseases very easily. Just make sure you apply the required weed & pest management solutions.
- Harvesting & Post-Harvest Management
Sorghum is ready to harvest once it’s mature and the moisture content has reached around 20%. You can harvest this staple crop using a sickle or HAV tractor mounted harvesters. Post-harvest, ensure to dry the crops and thresh them properly to remove the quality grains from stalks. Furthermore, you can store the grains in a cool and dry place to avoid any damage or spoilage.
Sorghum farming profit
The profitability of sorghum farming in India depends on various factors such as the yield per hectare, input costs, market prices, and government support. Here are some key factors to consider when estimating the profit potential of sorghum farming
Yield: The yield of sorghum varies depending on the variety, soil type, and management practices. Generally, the yield can range from 1-2 tonnes per hectare in rainfed areas to 3-4 tonnes per hectare in irrigated areas.
Input costs: The input costs for sorghum farming include seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, labor, and machinery. The cost can vary depending on the location and management practices. For example, the cost of cultivation can range from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 25,000 per hectare.
Market prices: The market prices for sorghum can vary depending on the demand and supply. Typically, the prices range from Rs. 20-25 per kg for grain and Rs. 8-10 per kg for fodder.
Government support: The government provides various support schemes such as subsidies on inputs, crop insurance, and minimum support price to support sorghum farming.
the profit potential of sorghum farming can be estimated. For example, if the yield is 2 tonnes per hectare and the market price is Rs. 25 per kg, the gross income can be Rs. 50,000 per hectare. If the input cost is Rs. 20,000 per hectare, the net income can be Rs. 30,000 per hectare. However, it is important to note that the profitability can vary depending on various factors and it is advisable to consult with local experts and farmers for specific estimates.
Final Thoughts on Sorghum Growing & Harvesting Tips
Sorghum farming in India is crucial in India, as it paves the way for various income opportunities for rural and marginalised farmers. By following proper management practices, farmers can earn a yield of up to 12 quintals of yield per acre and sustain a livelihood for farmers & individuals. These are the general steps for cultivating sorghum in India. It is important to consult local experts and extension workers for specific recommendations based on the local agro-climatic conditions and soil type.
Sorghum farming is a highly eco-friendly crop that helps preserve a lot of soil & water resources. Moreover, by following effective crop management practices, farmers can earn a yield of 2 quintals per acre from sorghum crops in India.
