Package of Practice for Jowar (Sorghum) cultivation
Sorghum fodder is ideal for regions with medium to heavy loamy soil and good drainage.
Sowing Time:
Summer Crop: February 15 – April 15
Kharif (Irrigated): June 25 – July 10
Kharif (Rainfed): Start with monsoon onset
Seed Rate:
Normal varieties: 20–25 kg per acre
Small-seeded types: 10–12 kg per acre
Sow in rows 20–25 cm apart instead of broadcasting.
Fertilizer Recommendation:
At sowing: 20 kg nitrogen (43 kg urea) per acre
After 1 month: 10 kg nitrogen (22 kg urea) per acre
For multi-cut varieties: apply 22 kg urea after each cut
In phosphorus and potassium-deficient soils, apply at sowing:
10 kg phosphorus (62 kg SSP)
10 kg potash (17 kg MOP) per acre
Weed Control:
Perform one hoeing 20–25 days after sowing
For broadleaf weed control, apply 400 g Atrazine (50% WP) in 200 liters of water per acre immediately after sowing.
Irrigation:
4–5 irrigations required in summer
For Kharif, irrigate based on monsoon availability
Pests and Their Management:
Shoot Fly: Damages crops between March–May and July–September by laying eggs on leaf undersides; larvae dry up the central shoot.
Stem Borer: Attacks 15–20 days after sowing, causing drying of central shoot.
Control Measures:
Spray any one of the following in 200 liters of water per acre:
100 ml Cypermethrin 25% EC (Cyperkill)
100 g Emamectin Benzoate (Proclaim)
Note:
These recommendations are based on research center findings. Yield may vary due to soil, weather, pest/disease attacks, and crop management.
Farmers are responsible for their crop outcomes. Local agricultural department guidelines may also be followed.
