Overview
Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench var. aethiopicum (Hack.) de Wet & Huckaby, also known as Ethiopian sorghum, is a type of cereal grain that is primarily grown as a food and forage crop in Africa. It is a subspecies of Sorghum bicolor, which includes several other varieties of sorghum, each with its unique characteristics.
Origin
Originally from Africa, Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum is grown throughout the continent, as well as in many other countries around the world. The plant's wide adaptability and tolerance to drought make it a popular crop in regions with erratic rainfall patterns.
Common Names
Some common names for Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum include Ethiopian sorghum, guinea corn, and shallu. In different regions of Africa, the plant is known by different names, such as "karo" and "yope" in Ethiopia and "dawa" in Chad.
Appearance
Ethiopian sorghum is an annual plant that typically grows between 1 and 3 meters tall, depending on the variety. It has a strong, fibrous root system that enables it to tolerate dry conditions. The plant's leaves are long and narrow, with jagged edges, and are typically green or purple. The grain heads, which contain the plant's seeds, are large and compact, with a range of colors, from white to shades of red, brown, and black.
Uses
Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum is primarily used as a food and fodder crop in Africa, where it is a staple food for millions of people. The grain is ground into flour and used to make a wide variety of dishes, including porridges, bread, and beer. The plant's leaves and stalks are also used as animal feed. In addition, sorghum is increasingly being used to produce ethanol as a fuel source.
hereLight Requirements
Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It thrives in areas with intense sunlight with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching and stunted growth. Partial shade is suitable for areas with intense heat or prolonged drought conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in hot and dry conditions, with a temperature range of 25-30°C (77-86°F). Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum performs poorly in frost-prone areas, and prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can damage the plant. It's essential to protect the plant from extreme cold to ensure optimal growth and prevent damage.
Soil Requirements
Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum grows optimally in fertile, well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should have a good water-holding capacity to ensure consistent moisture supply to the plant. S. bicolor var. aethiopicum is intolerant to water-logging, especially during the early growth stages. Organic matter is also crucial to improve the soil structure, retain water, and reduce nutrient leaching.
Cultivation Methods
Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench var. aethiopicum (Hack.) de Wet & Huckaby, commonly known as Ethiopian sorghum, is a cereal grain plant that is grown for food, fuel, and animal feed. It is a drought-tolerant crop that can be grown in arid and semi-arid regions. Ethiopian sorghum can be planted directly into the soil or into seedbeds, depending on the local climate and soil conditions.
The best time to plant Ethiopian sorghum is during the rainy season when the soil is moist. The plant requires warm soil temperatures between 25-30°C to germinate and grow. Farmers can plant the seeds at a depth of 2-3 cm and space them 20-30 cm apart.
Watering Needs
During the early stages of growth, the plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Once established, Ethiopian sorghum is a drought-tolerant crop that can withstand long periods without rain. However, if the soil becomes too dry, it can affect the yield and quality of the crop. Farmers should water the crop during the flowering and grain-filling stages to ensure a good harvest.
Fertilization
Ethiopian sorghum requires adequate nutrition to grow and produce a good yield. Farmers can apply organic or inorganic fertilizers to the soil to provide the necessary nutrients. If using organic fertilizers, farmers can add farmyard manure or compost to the soil six weeks before planting. Inorganic fertilizers, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can also be applied to the soil during planting.
Pruning
Ethiopian sorghum does not require pruning as it is a self-supporting plant. However, farmers can remove the lower leaves to increase air circulation and reduce the risk of plant diseases. Additionally, if the plant becomes too dense, farmers can thin it out by removing some of the stems and leaves.
Propagation of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench var. aethiopicum (Hack.) de Wet & Huckaby
Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench var. aethiopicum (Hack.) de Wet & Huckaby, commonly known as Ethiopian sorghum, is a hardy plant that propagates through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Ethiopian sorghum is through seeds. The seeds are generally sown at a depth of 3-4cm, and spacing between the plants is maintained at 30 to 45cm. Seeds should be sown in moist soil, and their growth is accelerated in warm temperature and high soil moisture levels. Seed propagation is an efficient method of propagation, and it ensures the genetic traits retention of the parent plant.
Transplantation
Transplantation of Ethiopian sorghum is an alternative propagation method. In this method, seeds are planted in smaller containers filled with soil, and the seedlings are grown under controlled conditions until they reach a suitable size for transplantation in the main field. The ideal size for transplanting is when seedlings attain two to three true leaves. Adequate maintenance of a greenhouse or poly house is also a requisite for the success of transplantation. It is then transplanted from the tray to the main field, where the growth continues to adulthood.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings can also be done, although this method is less commonly used. The ideal season for taking the cuttings is during the rainy season. The cutting is planted into a pot containing soil, and it should be kept in a greenhouse or a shaded area to ensure the rooting system develops well. When the cutting develops roots, it can be transplanted to the main field.
Conclusion
Propagation methods for Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench var. aethiopicum vary, and their success depends on the individual technique. The use of quality seeds, transplantation, and propagation through cuttings can be used to develop a robust cultivation of Ethiopian sorghum.
Disease Management
The following are common diseases that might affect Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes lesions on the plant's leaves, stems, and seeds. It can lead to yield loss, so management tactics include crop rotation, seed treatment, and foliar fungicides.
- Charcoal rot: This soil-borne fungus can cause wilting and death of plants. To manage charcoal rot, cultural practices such as crop rotation and timely planting can be helpful. Additionally, resistant varieties and fungicides can help prevent and manage this disease.
- Head smut: This fungal disease causes galls on the plant's inflorescences, resulting in reduced grain yield. To minimize the impact of head smut, growing resistant varieties and seed treatment are recommended.
Pest Management
The following are common pests that might affect Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum:
- Aphids: These insects can damage sorghum by sucking sap and transmitting viruses. Although natural predators, such as lady beetles and lacewings, can help control their populations, insecticide applications may be necessary to prevent significant yield loss.
- Grasshoppers: These pests can cause severe damage to sorghum crops by chewing on the leaves and stems. Management options include planting early, crop rotation, and the use of insecticides.
- Fall armyworms: These caterpillars can quickly defoliate sorghum plants and cause significant yield loss. Early detection and management can include using pheromone traps to monitor populations and applying insecticides when necessary.
- Cutworms: These larvae can cut off seedlings at the soil line and cause stand reductions. Management options include tillage practices and the use of insecticides.
Overall, implementing integrated pest management strategies that combine cultural practices, resistant varieties, and appropriate chemical controls can aid in effectively managing pests and diseases in Sorghum bicolor var. aethiopicum crops.
