Why sorghum is a good crop – and how to grow it better

People in Africa have relied on sorghum as a staple crop for thousands of years. However, in recent times, sorghum’s importance has diminished. There are many compelling reasons to bring this resilient crop back to our fields.

Reggie Mchunu from Pannar shares insights into the benefits of growing sorghum and best practices for successful cultivation:

Why is sorghum a good crop to grow?

As weather patterns become increasingly erratic, farming can be more challenging. Sorghum is highly adaptable, thriving in drier conditions and even surviving droughts or periods of waterlogging. It grows well in a variety of soils, including marginal lands that aren’t suitable for crops like maize, soya or sunflower. By including sorghum in crop rotations, farmers can better manage risk and improve their chances of a successful season.

Additionally, sorghum plays a vital role in supporting food security in both South Africa and across the continent.

Are there different types of sorghum?

Yes, there are two main types: grain sorghum and forage sorghum. Grain sorghum is used for human consumption, while forage sorghum is primarily for animal feed.

In South Africa, two types of grain sorghum are grown: sweet and bitter. Sweet sorghum is used to produce meal, rice and grits; while bitter sorghum is commonly used for brewing traditional beer.

Although forage sorghum is grown specifically for animal feed, grain sorghum also provides crop residue that can be used for livestock.

Is sorghum better for people than maize, wheat or rice?

It’s difficult to claim that one grain is outright better than another, as each has unique nutritional features. However, sorghum has significant health benefits. Its high dietary fibre content aids digestive health, and it contains antioxidants that help combat cancer and heart disease. Sorghum is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten allergies. It is also high in protein and offers carbohydrates that maintain stable blood sugar levels, making it an excellent option for people with diabetes. One of sorghum’s key advantages is the dietary variety it provides, which contributes to overall health.

Is sorghum more expensive to grow than maize?

Sorghum may seem more expensive to cultivate because maize often delivers better yields on certain soils. However, sorghum’s strength lies in its ability to grow on soil where maize cannot, as well as its resilience to unpredictable weather. Additionally, sorghum is less prone to pests and diseases, reducing the need for crop protection products. The best strategy is to plant a variety of crops to take advantage of the different benefits each one offers.

What should farmers bear in mind to grow a successful sorghum crop?

• Temperature requirements: Sorghum thrives in heat. The soil temperature must be above 18°C for seeds to germinate, so planting can begin in October in most areas. Optimal growth occurs between 25°C and 30°C, though the crop can handle even higher temperatures. However, sorghum does not tolerate the cold.
• Soil preferences: Both grain and forage sorghum can grow in diverse soil types, from sandy to clayey. The ideal soil pH is between 4.5 (KCl) and 5.5 (KCl), but sorghum can tolerate slightly brackish soil. While it does well in poor soils, proper fertilisation, particularly with nitrogen, significantly boosts yields.
• Weed management: Sorghum is particularly vulnerable to witchweed. Never plant sorghum in fields infested with this harmful weed, as it can severely impact the crop.

Image credit: Bruce McLennan/Pixabay