Establishing your sorghum crop successfully
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Seed genetics
Hybrid genetics provide the basis for sorghum tolerance to cold stress. High seed quality helps ensure that the seed will perform up to its genetic ability. Pioneer Seeds concentrate on selecting the best genetics for consistent performance across a wide range of environments including stressful conditions by utilising cold tolerance trial data.
Seed quality
Pioneer Seeds sorghum seed quality program starts in the production field and is present through every process at the Narromine plant. Our world class seed production procedures ensure that Pioneer Seeds has the highest quality sorghum seed with minimum germination rates of 85%. Please bear in mind that seed is a living product and must be treated as such.
Environmental factors
Even with the best genetics and highest seed quality, environmental factors can still dictate seedling establishment.
Tips for successful sorghum establishment:
- Soil temperate should be measured over at least three days at seeding depth
- Aim to plant into soil that is a least 16°C and rising at 8am
- Regularly monitor the weather forecast to ensure there is a trend towards warming conditions
- When planting early it is critical to have very good soil moisture for establishment
- Be aware in an environment with high residual stubble load, soil temperatures will take longer increase compared to bare ground due to reduced exposure to solar radiation, air temperature/humidity and wind
- In an irrigated situation, monitor soil temperatures before and after irrigating
- In very dry fields a pre-irrigation may be the best option
Early Sowing Opportunities and Risks
To assist growers take advantage of early sowing opportunities, recent research articles have been published by GRDC in partnership with The University of Queensland (QAAFI), Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and NSW DPI.
- View radical rethink of sorghum cold tolerance article.
- Early planting grain sorghum in northern NSW 2021
Pioneer Seeds is the leading developer and supplier of hybrid sorghum seeds in Australia. If you have any questions about planting sorghum seed, contact your local Pioneer Seeds Territory Sales Manager or Farm Services Consultant.
SG0623-03A
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local experience
With dedicated and highly skilled team members located throughout Australia you can be sure of accessing the best local knowledge to help you maximise your investment in Pioneer® brand hybrid seed. Get in touch with your local Territory Sales Manager or Farm Services Consultant today.