In southern Germany and similiar regions, sowing can begin as early as May in warmer locations. For other regions, sowing should take place between mid-May and mid-June when conditions are optimal.
Soil temperature
Optimal germination occurs between 12-15°C. Sorghum is particularly sensitive to cold and temperatures as low as 4°C can cause irreparable frost damage.
Tillage and Soil Type
Sorghum requires a fine-seeded bed, similar to that of beets, for good seed-to-soil contact. The soil should be free from weeds, especially since sorghum’s juvenile development is slow. Fields with high millet presence should be managed carefully, as chemical weed control options are limited. A combination of mechanical and chemical control is recommended.
Sowing technique
Both drill sowing and precision sowing are suitable, with row widths, ranging from 25 to 75 cm. Proper reconsolidation ensures optimal crop development. Narrower row widths enhance weed suppression by closing rows earlier.
Sowing depth
Orientation is 2-4 cm across all varieties and regions.
Seeding Rate