Abstract:
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a C4 annual grass which can produce high biomass yields. A study was conducted at research station Rauischholzhausen (50°N and 8°E, 220m above sea level) during 2008 to investigate the effect of planting density and sowing times on biomass production and chemical composition of sorghum hybrids. Treatments consisted of different sowing dates (9th, 19th and 29th May 2008), three planting densities (16, 24, 32 plants m-2) and two cultivars: Goliath (late maturing, S. bicolor × S. bicolor, source; Agroczemek KFT. Hungary) and Bovital (early maturing, S. bicolor × S. sudanense, source; Agroczemek KFT. Hungary). Plant density had no significant impact on dry matter yield in this study. Dry matter yield was significantly different among cultivars tested in this study. Cultivar Goliath was more productive regarding biomass production compared to cv. Bovital. Planting density showed minimal impact on biomass as well as quality of sorghum. Significantly lower content of structural carbohydrates (acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber and lignin) were synthesized by cv. Bovital compared to cv. Goliath. On the other hand, protein and ash concentrations were greater in cv. Bovital than cv. Goliath. It was concluded that there were clear differences for biomass and chemical composition of the tested cultivars of sorghum. Planting density had lesser influence on biomass as well as quality of sorghum.
Page(s):
42-47
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: International Journal of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Volume: 4, Issue: 1, Year: 2012