Sorghum, also called jowar in India, is one of the top cereal crops grown in the country. It grows well in dry areas, even when water is limited. That’s why many farmers grow this crop in regions with low rainfall. People consume it as food, and the cereal also works well as animal feed, which makes it very useful.
This blog will guide you through sorghum farming in India, from planting to harvesting.
Stepwise Process for Sorghum Farming
Growing sorghum successfully requires following some simple steps. To make it easy, here are 7 clear tips that explain the whole farming process step by step:
Prepare Land for Farming
Before planting, prepare the land well by ploughing it 2 to 3 times. This process helps loosen the soil, removes weeds, and clears old plant residues. Proper land preparation allows seeds to grow better and gives roots enough space to spread. Good preparation improves air and water movement in the soil, which is very important for healthy crop growth.
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Methods to Plant Sorghum Seeds
There are two broad methods used for sowing sorghum: broadcasting and line sowing. In broadcasting, seeds are spread evenly over the field either by hand or through farm machinery. This method is easy to perform but may not provide the right spacing between plants.
Whereas line sowing involves putting seeds in rows with a similar distance apart. This method is a superior approach since it provides each plant with sufficient space to develop properly. It also simplifies watering, weeding, and harvesting significantly.
Watering and Caring for the Crop
Sorghum does not need much water, but it needs sufficient quantities at appropriate times. Irrigate the field immediately after sowing to prevent the seeds from germinating. The second watering should occur after 20 to 25 days. After that, irrigate every 15 to 20 days, based on rainfall and soil, as needed.
Flowering and grain filling are extremely important stages, and water shortage during this stage will lower the yield. But do not overwater, as excess water will rot the roots and lead to diseases.
Fertilizers and Nutrients
To achieve a good yield, the crops require proper nutrients. Prior to sowing, adding farmyard manure or compost enriches the soil.
Use phosphorus and potassium during sowing. Two doses of nitrogen fertilizer are provided: one during sowing and the second after approximately 30 days. This supports the growth of plants and encourages more grain production.
Controlling Weeds and Pests
Weeds compete with the crop for nutrients and water, so removing them early is important. Use simple hand equipment or tractor-based weeders to keep fields clean.
Moreover, common pests like shoot flies and stem borers can damage the crop. Monitor the crop regularly and use insecticides or natural pest control methods if needed.
Harvesting
Sorghum is ready to harvest when grains become hard, and leaves turn dry, usually after 90 to 120 days from planting. Farmers can cut the crop by hand or use implements like combine harvesters. After harvesting, dry the grains in the sun to prevent spoilage. A good crop can produce 2 to 4 tonnes per hectare, but with proper care, yields can be even higher.
Post-Harvesting
After harvesting, proper post-harvest handling is important to maintain the crop’s freshness and prevent damage. This includes drying the produce well to reduce moisture, cleaning to remove dirt, and storing it in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Good post-harvest practices help maintain quality and increase the shelf life of crops.
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Final Words
Sorghum farming in India offers a reliable and profitable option, especially in dry regions where water is limited. With the right farming methods, good seed selection, and timely care, this crop can provide a steady income. Its multiple uses for food, fodder, and industry make it a smart choice. As demand grows, adopting modern techniques can help improve yield and ensure better returns across various parts of the country.