The Beef Calf

"The grain-sorghum crop increased from approximately 2,000,000 acres in 1903 to 5,000,000 acres in 1919. The average acre yield varies from about 12 bushels in poor seasons to more than twice that quantity in favorable seasons. The more important grain sorghums are included in two groups of varieties, the kafir group and the milo-durra group. Dwarf and early varieties in both groups are best for the higher and drier districts. The use of good seed of adapted varieties, a well-prepared seed bed, clean cultivation, and the right method of handling after harvest will increase the yield and quality of the grain. The milos and feterita ripen in 29 to 110 days, which adapts them to short seasons, high elevations and low rainfall. The kafirs are not so early and require more moisture. They do best when the rainfall is about 25 inches and the elevation ranges up to about 2,000 or 2,5000 feet. Pure seed is important. Select the seed heads from the standing stalks before the crop is harvested, so the best plants may be found. These crops will grow on moist soil types. It pays to delay sowing until the soil is warm. Cold soil injures germination and delays growth. From 2 to 3 pounds of good, clean seed are required to sow an acre. On the average, 10 to 12 inches of row space to the plant in rows of 3 1/2 feet apart is best for the milos and feterita and 14 to 16 inches for the kafirs. Clean cultivation is essential for best results. Kill the weeds and keep the surface soil loose. Harvest the crop when it is ripe. Dry or cure the heads properly before thrashing and adjust the thrasher so that the grain will not be cracked. The grain should be clean and dry before it is stored in bulk; otherwise it will get out of condition quickly. While in storage it should be watched for signs of heat ling." -- p. [2]