Sorghum, a versatile crop grown in various regions, has specific water requirements for optimal growth and yield. Understanding these requirements and implementing effective irrigation strategies are crucial for successful sorghum production.
Key Facts
- Water use: Sorghum typically requires about 0.2 to 0.3 inches of water per acre per day.
- Total water use: During the growing season, sorghum can use approximately 8 to 10 inches of water.
- Peak water use: The peak water use for sorghum occurs just prior to the boot stage, and it can range between 20 to 22 inches of water during the entire growing season.
- Irrigation timing: It is crucial to consider the growth stage of the crop when deciding on irrigation timing. The reproductive phase, starting from bloom until physiological maturity, requires about 0.3 inches of water per day.
- Soil moisture management: Monitoring soil moisture levels is essential for effective irrigation scheduling. Soil water holding capacity varies based on soil texture, and it is important to avoid exceeding 50% maximum allowable depletion (MAD) to prevent significant yield reductions.
- Residue management and tillage: Minimizing soil disturbance through reduced tillage and maintaining surface crop residue can help reduce soil water evaporation and improve water infiltration rates.
- Irrigation strategies: Different irrigation strategies can be employed for sorghum. A general full-irrigation strategy suggests specific irrigation amounts at different growth stages, such as a 4-inch irrigation at the beginning of the reproductive stage and two 3-inch irrigations at the flag leaf or boot stage.
Water Use and Peak Water Use
Sorghum typically requires approximately 0.2 to 0.3 inches of water per acre per day. During the entire growing season, the total water use can range from 8 to 10 inches. However, the peak water use occurs just prior to the boot stage, where the crop can utilize between 20 to 22 inches of water.
Irrigation Timing and Soil Moisture Management
The timing of irrigation plays a vital role in sorghum production. The reproductive phase, which begins from bloom until physiological maturity, demands about 0.3 inches of water per day. Monitoring soil moisture levels is essential to determine the appropriate irrigation schedule. Soil water holding capacity varies depending on soil texture, and it is crucial to avoid exceeding 50% maximum allowable depletion (MAD) to prevent substantial yield reductions.
Residue Management and Tillage Practices
Residue management and tillage practices can significantly impact soil water conservation and irrigation efficiency. Minimizing soil disturbance through reduced tillage and maintaining surface crop residue can help reduce soil water evaporation and improve water infiltration rates. These practices enhance the soil’s ability to capture and store moisture, reducing the frequency of irrigation and optimizing water use.
General Irrigation Strategies
Various irrigation strategies can be employed for sorghum production. A commonly used full-irrigation strategy involves specific irrigation amounts at different growth stages. For instance, a 4-inch irrigation is recommended at the beginning of the reproductive stage, followed by two 3-inch irrigations at the flag leaf or boot stage. These strategies aim to provide adequate moisture during critical growth stages while minimizing water wastage.
Sources
- Stichler, C., Fipps, G., Irrigating Sorghum in South- and South-Central Texas, L-5434, Texas A&M University, 2003, http://publications.tamu.edu/CORN_SORGHUM/PUB_Irrigating%20Sorghum%20in%20Texas.pdf.
- Sorghum Irrigation and Water Information, CropWatch, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, https://cropwatch.unl.edu/sorghum/water.
- Kelley, J., Capps, C., 2022 Arkansas Grain Sorghum Quick Facts, University of Arkansas, 2022, https://www.uaex.uada.edu/farm-ranch/crops-commercial-horticulture/.
FAQs
How much water does sorghum need per day?
Sorghum typically requires about 0.2 to 0.3 inches of water per acre per day.
What is the total water use of sorghum during the growing season?
Sorghum can use approximately 8 to 10 inches of water during the entire growing season.
When does sorghum have its peak water use?
The peak water use for sorghum occurs just prior to the boot stage.
How much water is needed during the reproductive phase of sorghum?
The reproductive phase, from bloom until physiological maturity, requires about 0.3 inches of water per day.
Why is it important to monitor soil moisture levels for sorghum irrigation?
Monitoring soil moisture levels is crucial to prevent exceeding 50% maximum allowable depletion (MAD), which can lead to significant yield reductions.
How can residue management and tillage practices affect sorghum irrigation?
Minimizing soil disturbance through reduced tillage and maintaining surface crop residue can reduce soil water evaporation and improve water infiltration rates, reducing irrigation frequency and optimizing water use.
Are there general irrigation strategies for sorghum production?
Yes, a commonly used full-irrigation strategy involves a 4-inch irrigation at the beginning of the reproductive stage, followed by two 3-inch irrigations at the flag leaf or boot stage.
Why is it important to consider the growth stage of sorghum when scheduling irrigation?
Different growth stages of sorghum have varying water requirements. Considering the growth stage helps ensure that adequate moisture is provided during critical periods, such as the reproductive phase, while minimizing water wastage during less demanding stages.