Evaluation of the performance of seven forage sorghum cultivars in Kharotum State, Sudan

The experiment was conducted in the Experimental Farm of Shambat Research Station in the late of the winter season (Feb., 2005), with the objective of investigating the magnitude of genetic variability among seven forage sorghum selections isolated from the local population of the traditional cultivar Sudan grass (Garawia), traditional cultivar used by farmers (farmer check) and Kambal which was isolated from the traditional cultivar 'Abu Sab'in' (Aliab type) using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The study showed significant differences among the studied entries for the first cut and the second cut of GMY (green matter yield), DMY (dry matter yield) for the second cut, days to 50% flowering, plant density, plant height, number of leave per plant and leaf/stem ratio. The selection S. (32-2)A gave the highest forage yield followed by Kambal (Abu Sab'in), with respective yields of about 41.75 and 40.30 t/ha in the first cut. Whereas Kambal was superior to S. (32-2) A in the second cut, with respective yields Of about 24.99 and 23.65 t/ha. The latter selection S. (32-2) A was considered the best since it was earlier in flowering than the former (Kambal). The overall mean of GMY of the first cut (35.78 t/ha) was higher than that of the second cut (18.88 t/ha). This was attributed to the fact that sowing date has been late of winter season with its favourable conditions represented by the increase in temperature and day length, which are generally favourable for forage sorghum production, whilst the second cut coincided with the unfavourable conditions for forage sorghum production, which is reflected in water stress and diseases. It is suggested that farmers should benefit from the second cut when forage sorghum is grown in winter season. The unique performance noticed for most selection in forage yield and related attributes indicated that selection within the local stocks could result in isolation of improved versions of the traditional populations