Overview of Sorghum bipennatum (Hack.) Kuntze
Sorghum bipennatum (Hack.) Kuntze is a species of grass in the family Poaceae, commonly known as the feather finger grass. The plant is native to Africa and occurs in many parts of the continent with Kenya being one of its distribution centers. It is also found in other parts of the world such as Central and South America as well as Asia.
Appearance
The feather finger grass has an upright and tufted growth habit and typically grows to a height of 90-150 cm. It has a well-developed root system that is capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions such as drought. The leaves are long (up to 60 cm) and narrow (2 to 3 mm). The inflorescence is long and feathery, giving the plant its common name.
Uses
Sorghum bipennatum is primarily used as a forage crop for livestock, it is highly nutritious and exhibits good palatability. The plant also has medicinal properties, It is used as a remedy for fever, stomach problems, and respiratory infections. The seeds of the plant are used in the production of gluten-free flour and porridges. The plant is essential to the soil as it can tolerate and grow in arid areas and can improve soil fertility through its root system, It is also a good source of organic matter for the soil.
Conclusion
Sorghum bipennatum is a useful grass with a range of benefits both in agriculture and human health. Its adaptability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions make it an important plant for arid regions. With more research and development, it has the potential to provide more benefits for the global agricultural sector.
Light Requirements
Sorghum bipennatum requires a high amount of sunlight, at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day, to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but full sunlight is preferable for the growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F). Sorghum bipennatum is adapted to a hot and dry climate, so it can withstand high temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers sandy, well-draining soils that are neutral to slightly acidic in pH (6.0-7.5). It can also grow in soils that have low nutrient content and can tolerate periods of drought. Sorghum bipennatum prefers soils with low levels of salinity and alkalinity.
Cultivation methods
Sorghum bipennatum (Hack.) Kuntze, commonly referred to as Sudan grass, is a warm-season, annual grass that can grow up to six feet tall. This plant thrives in hot, sunny conditions, and can be grown in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Start by tilling the soil before planting and ensure that the soil is free of large stones or clumps of dirt that could interfere with the germination of the seeds. Sow seeds about an inch deep in rows spaced about 2-3 feet apart, and keep the soil well-hydrated during the germination stage.
Watering needs
Sorghum bipennatum requires regular watering, especially during the seedling stage which is crucial for its growth. Once the grass has established, reduce the watering but ensures it gets enough water to maintain growth. Test the soil moisture regularly and water whenever the soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases and rotting of the roots.
Fertilization
A nutrient-rich soil will provide an excellent foundation for growing Sorghum bipennatum. Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer or compost before planting to enhance the soil's fertility. During the growing season, apply nitrogen-based fertilizers in small amounts to give the plants the additional nutrients needed by the grass to thrive. Stop applying nitrogen at least four weeks before the harvest to avoid over-stimulation of the greens and lower quality feed.
Pruning
Pruning Sorghum bipennatum grass creates better airflow and canopy coverage, hence reducing potential diseases and resistance to prevalent plant viruses during the growing season. Typically, prunings begin after the grass reaches the height where harvesting becomes harder and unproductive, which is usually after one to two feet tall. Cut off the tops by 6 inches to 12 inches to prevent lodge and assure the quality of the forage. This will result in a more healthy plant, with a higher yield and better quality feed.
Propagating Sorghum bipennatum Plant
Sorghum bipennatum is commonly known as the broomcorn, a type of sorghum that is commonly grown as an ornamental plant and for industrial purposes. This plant is propagated through various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common method used to propagate Sorghum bipennatum is through seeds. It is best to sow the seeds directly into the soil after the danger of frost has passed. The seeds should be planted about one inch deep and four inches apart. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist for good germination, which usually occurs within one to two weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Another propagation method of Sorghum bipennatum is through stem cuttings. It involves taking cuttings of the plant's stem, dipping them in rooting hormone powder, and transplanting the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix. Provide the stem cutting with humidity and adequate sunlight to stimulate root growth.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division is a third option to grow Sorghum bipennatum. It involves separating the plant's roots into segments and replanting them in separate containers or locations in the garden. This method is best conducted in the spring or fall seasons.
Regardless of the propagation method that you choose, it is important to provide adequate water and sunlight and avoid disturbing the plant's roots for optimal growth and development.
Disease and Pest Management for Sorghum bipennatum (Hack.) Kuntze
Sorghum bipennatum (Hack.) Kuntze, commonly known as big bluestem, is a highly valued forage crop due to its high productivity, adaptability, and drought tolerance. However, like all crops, it is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its yield and quality. Therefore, effective disease and pest management is crucial to ensure higher yields and better-quality forages.
Common Diseases
Some of the common diseases that affect Sorghum bipennatum are:
- Anthracnose: This is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum graminicola. It can cause severe damage to the leaves, stalks, and grain. Symptoms include small reddish-brown spots on the leaves, which enlarge and may coalesce. The fungus can also cause stem cankers that lead to lodging and reduced grain quality. Managing anthracnose involves planting resistant cultivars and practicing crop rotation.
- Leaf Rust: This is a fungal disease that appears as small, yellow pustules on the leaves. Severe infections can cause defoliation and yield losses. The most effective way to manage leaf rust is to plant resistant cultivars.
- Fusarium Head Blight (FHB): FHB is a fungal disease caused by Fusarium species, which affects the heads of the plant. Infected heads appear bleached and may have pink or purple mold growth. FHB reduces grain yield and quality. The most effective management strategy for FHB is to plant cultivars with FHB resistance, crop rotation, and fungicide applications.
Common Pests
Sorghum midge and headworm are the most damaging pests that can cause significant yield losses. Other pests include:
- Sorghum Webworm: A common pest that feeds on the leaves of the plant. The larvae web the leaves of the plants, making them unsuitable for foraging. Managing sorghum webworm involves planting earlier in the season to avoid severe infestations and using insecticides.
- Sorghum Stalk Borer: Stalk borers tunnel into the stalks of the plants, causing lodging and reducing yield. The pest is best managed by planting early-maturing cultivars, crop rotation, and insecticide applications.
- Sugar Cane Aphid: This sap-sucking pest can cause significant yield losses in Sorghum bipennatum. The pest is best managed by planting resistant cultivars, timely insecticide applications, and monitoring the crop regularly for any signs of infestation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sorghum bipennatum is a valuable forage crop that requires effective disease and pest management to maintain higher yields and better-quality forages. Growers should incorporate integrated pest management strategies that include cultural practices, resistant cultivars, and timely fungicide and insecticide applications to manage pests and diseases effectively.
