Dwarf Sorghum

Although it is grown around the world for grain and as a fodder source, in the Uk sorghum is generally used as game bird cover. Dwarf sorghum is a short, stocky type of sorghum, designed to remain strong and upright throughout the shooting season.

Uses

Use for game cover and more recently environmental mixtures.

Persistence

This is an annual species.

Strengths

The short, strong and dense nature of the plant means that it stands reliably into the winter. This means that it provides cover for game birds and holds up other seed bearing species. It can be used as a windbreak, to be grown alongside taller more open species like maize.

Frost Tolerance

Not frost tolerant, but remains standing into January.

Sowing Rate Advice

8kg per acre / 20kg per ha.

Mixture Sowing Rate Advice

2 - 3kg per acre / 5 - 7.5kg per ha.

Used as a structural component of a game cover mixture.

Ideal Sowing Time

Sow in the spring when soils are warm.

Management

Chemical weed control options are available for sorghum, much like maize.

Distinguishing characteristics

Seed
This is a round seed, which is beige to brown in colour. It has a smooth texture and is 5mm in size. Occasionally the seed may be treated with a fungicide to combat soil borne disease.

Seedling
The seedling can be slow to establish in the early stages and vulnerable to high weed pressure, however as the plant continues its life cycle the development becomes quicker. The coleoptile produces a flat leaf, with the true leaf becoming more pointed, wider and flatter.

Flowering Plant
The plant is green and glossy. Each leaf is wide with toothed margins. Depending on variety, it develops a densely packed panicle.

Additional Info

Average seeds per kg - 52 000. It is slow to establish initially.

Works well with

Seed bearing species, like millet.

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