A Comprehensive Guide On Sorghum Farming In Kenya

Sorghum farming in Kenya offers a lots of benefits, ranging from climate resilience and water efficiency to nutritional value and economic opportunities. The cereal grain, has been gaining popularity among Kenyan farmers due to its adaptability to diverse climatic conditions, low water requirements, and high nutritional value. As Kenya faces challenges of climate change and food security, sorghum farming offers a promising solution to boost agricultural productivity and resilience.

Sorghum Farming In Kenya

The crop is grown in western, northern Rift Valley, eastern and some parts of Central Province. The crop is fairly drought resistant and thus it is quite popular in drier areas of the Kenya. One of the major companies that buy sorghum from farmer in Kenya is East Africa Breweries Limited.

Sorghum is well suited to heavy clay soils (Vertisols) found commonly in these regions, especially the western region because it is tolerant to waterlogging. It also thrives in light sandy soils found in the lower eastern region (Bio vision, 2018). Sorghum tolerates a range of soil pH from 5.0 – 8.5 and is more tolerant to salinity than maize. It is adapted to poor soils and can produce grain on soils where many other crops would fail.

It is estimated that there are close to 240,000 small-scale sorghum farmers with farm sizes ranging from 0.4 to 0.6 Ha (1 to 1.5 acres) (KAVES, 2013). Majority of these farmers produce sorghum under the mixed farming system; intercropping sorghum with other crops such as maize, cowpea, beans and pigeon peas. Though mono-cropping is highly recommended for sorghum, only a small proportion of farmers adhere to this recommendation.

Kenya ranks last in sorghum production compared to the neighbouring countries. Over the past decade, Ethiopia has recorded the most significant growth in sorghum production, and its productivity compares to countries in Southern and South-East Asia. On the other hand, sorghum productivity in Kenya has stagnated over time.

Although utilization of sorghum for industrial processing is low, substantial growth has been recorded in recent years. Over the last five years, in Kenya, the quantity of sorghum utilized for industrial purposes increased by 25 per cent. This growth is mostly attributed to the emergence of sorghum beer. For industrial purposes, sorghum is also used to manufacture wax, starch, syrup, dextrose agar and edible oils.

However, it is the promotion of sorghum beer production in Upper and Lower Eastern as well as Western regions that has led to increased production and industrial use. Production of sorghum for beer is highly commercial and to out-compete other enterprises such as maize, millet, pigeon peas for productive resources such as land and water, sorghum must perform better and record better returns to the farmers.

Productivity and profitability of sorghum farming systems, therefore, remain central to the survival of this enterprise.

The Significance of Sorghum Farming in Kenya

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is an indigenous crop that has been cultivated in Kenya for centuries. Traditionally, it has been an essential part of the diet for many communities, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, where it thrives despite limited water availability. Recently, sorghum has gained attention as an alternative to maize, a staple crop in Kenya, due to its ability to withstand drought and pests.

Sorghum is not only a climate-resilient crop but also offers economic benefits to farmers. It has various uses, including food for human consumption, animal feed, brewing, and the production of industrial products like ethanol and biofuels.

Challenges of Sorghum Farming In Kenya

1. Low yields due to the use of local cultivars by farmers who mature late hence are affected by the short rainy seasons which are characteristic of the semi-arid areas
2. Diseases. The common sorghum diseases are leaf spot, rust, leaf blight, anthracnose, ergot, head smut, and covered kernel smut. Sorghum-covered Kernel smut is the most damaging disease in dry areas.
3. Pests. Birds, Sorghum shoot fly(Antherigona varia), Stem borers(Busseolafusca), aphids, bollworm, and Aphids. Birds are the main cause of crop loss in sorghum. Storage pests are weevils
4. Few processing and utilization technologies hence reduced consumption.
5. Low marketability of brown and red sorghums
6. Labor intensity in harvesting and threshing. Due to lack of mechanization technologies in sorghum production.

Benefits of Sorghum Farming In Kenya

• Drought Tolerance: Sorghum is known for its remarkable tolerance to drought conditions. It can survive with minimal water, making it an ideal crop for regions with erratic rainfall patterns or water scarcity.
• Nutritional Value: Sorghum is a nutrient-rich grain containing proteins, fiber, and essential minerals such as iron, calcium, and phosphorus. Its gluten-free nature also makes it a suitable alternative for people with gluten sensitivities.
• Soil Health and Biodiversity: Sorghum’s deep root system enhances soil structure and prevents soil erosion. Additionally, its cultivation diversifies cropping systems, promoting biodiversity on farms.
• Income Diversification: Sorghum offers farmers the opportunity to diversify their income sources. Besides its use as food, sorghum’s by-products, like stalks and leaves, can be used as fodder, while its grains can be processed for various commercial purposes.

Why you should consider sorghum farming in Kenya

There are many reasons to grow this versatile crop given its many features and benefits. Some farmers grow it as a cash or a food crop. In other regions, others grow it as grain or animal fodder for their animals.  Other 7 reasons of why you should grow sorghum include;

• sorghum is resistant to waterlogging, fairly drought tolerant and yields are reasonably better performing in infertile soils compared to other cash and food crops such as maize.
• The crop has a thriving ratooning ability giving you harvests beyond one season and available fodder during the dry season.
• Sorghum grains has multiple home and industrial uses and can be boiled or baked, ground for porridge, malted for beer or even popped for snacks.
• Available market for the sorghum for the cereal’s high demand by breweries and household consumption as it’s a leading preference for flour blending especially by healthy conscious and diabetic consumers.
• Presence of many private & public players as well as NGOS such as, ICRISAT, KALRO, AGRA, Africa Harvest, IFAD, FtMA, EAML, EABL, FAO, Nuru Kenya among others that support development of the sorghum value chain in Kenya as both cash and food crop.

Sorghum Varieties In Kenya

When selecting a sorghum variety for farming in Kenya, farmers should consider their specific agro-climatic conditions, market demand, intended use (grain, forage, or dual-purpose), and resistance to prevalent diseases or pests.

Additional Information:

1. Maturity Period: The maturity period indicates the number of days it takes for the sorghum variety to reach harvestable stage after planting. Early-maturing varieties like Seredo and Gadam typically mature in 100-110 days, while others, such as E1232, take 140-150 days.
2. Production per Acre: The production per acre may vary depending on various factors like soil fertility, water availability, and management practices. On average, yields can range from 1000 kg to 2400 kg per acre. Gadam Krisp and Bicolor are known to produce higher yields compared to others.
3. Suitability and Adaptability: Some varieties, like Macia and E6518, are well-suited for semi-arid regions with limited water availability, making them suitable for dryland farming. Others, like Serena, are preferred for their malting quality and are commonly used in brewing.
4. Disease and Pest Resistance: Several varieties, such as E1295 and E6518, possess resistance to specific diseases like anthracnose, downy mildew, and head smut, which helps in reducing crop losses.
5. Dual-Purpose Varieties: Some sorghum varieties, like Bicolor, are dual-purpose, suitable for both grain and forage production, providing flexibility in utilization for farmers.
6. Nutritional Content: Gadam Krisp is known for its high protein content, making it a valuable choice for both human consumption and livestock feed.
7. Striga Weed Resistance: E1232 is resistant to striga weed, a parasitic plant that can severely affect sorghum growth, making it a suitable choice for areas prone to striga infestations.

When selecting a sorghum variety for farming in Kenya, farmers should consider their specific agro-climatic conditions, market demand, intended use (grain, forage, or dual-purpose), and resistance to prevalent diseases or pests.

Expected cost of sorghum production in Kenya and profitability

Estimating the cost of sorghum production per acre and expected profits can vary depending on various factors such as the sorghum variety, input prices, yield potential, market prices, and farming practices. Below is a generalized calculation based on average values for illustrative purposes:

Cost of Sorghum Production per Acre:

1. Land preparation and planting: Ksh 5,000
2. Seeds: Ksh 2,500 (assuming 5 kg of seeds at Ksh 500 per kg)
3. Fertilizers and soil amendments: Ksh 6,000
4. Pesticides and herbicides: Ksh 2,000
5. Irrigation (if required): Ksh 4,000
6. Labor (including weeding and thinning): Ksh 8,000
7. Miscellaneous expenses: Ksh 2,000

Total cost of production per acre: Ksh 29,500

Expected Profits:

To calculate the expected profits, we need to estimate the yield and the market price of sorghum per kilogram. Let’s assume the average yield is 1,500 kg per acre, and the market price for sorghum is Ksh 40 per kg.

Total expected revenue: 1,500 kg * Ksh 40/kg = Ksh 60,000

• Expected profits per acre: Total revenue – Total cost of production
• Expected profits = Ksh 60,000 – Ksh 29,500
• Expected profits = Ksh 30,500

Total annual expected profits = Expected profits per acre * Number of acres * Number of seasons

Using the same assumptions as before (2 acres of land dedicated to sorghum farming, and expected profits per acre of Ksh 30,500):

Total annual expected profits = Ksh 30,500 * 2 acres * 3 seasons = Ksh 183,000

So, with three seasons of sorghum farming per year on 2 acres of land, the total annual expected profits would be Ksh 183,000.

It is important to note that these are just estimated costs and profits, and the actual costs and profits can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size of the farm, the type of inputs used, and the weather conditions.

Also, it is important to note that the three seasons in Kenya are not of equal length. The long rains season is the longest, followed by the short rains season, and then the cool season. This means that the cost of production per acre will be higher in the long rains season than in the other two seasons.

Overall, the expected profit from sorghum production in Kenya is good, but it is important to factor in the costs of production and the weather conditions when making a decision about whether or not to grow sorghum.

Seed Rate and Spacing for Sorghum Farming

Here are the recommended seed rate and spacing guidelines for sorghum farming in Kenya:

1. Seed Rate:

The recommended seed rate for sorghum depends on various factors, including the sorghum variety, planting method, and target plant population. As a general guideline, the seed rate for sorghum is typically around 5-8 kg per acre for open-pollinated varieties and 3-5 kg per acre for hybrid varieties.

For example, if the selected variety’s recommended seed rate is 6 kg per acre, a farmer with one acre of land should plant approximately 6 kg of sorghum seeds.

2. Spacing:

The spacing between sorghum plants and rows varies based on the intended use of the crop, soil fertility, and environmental conditions. Generally, the following spacing ranges are recommended:

• For grain sorghum: 15-30 cm between plants within a row, and 60-75 cm between rows.
• For forage sorghum: Wider spacing, such as 30-45 cm between plants within a row, and 75-90 cm between rows.

For example, if you choose a spacing of 20 cm between plants and 75 cm between rows for grain sorghum, the calculation for planting density would be as follows:

Plant population per row = (100 cm / 20 cm) = 5 plants Number of rows per acre = (100 cm / 75 cm) = 1.33 rows (approximately 1 row)

Total plant population per acre = 5 plants per row x 1 row = 5 plants per acre.

Important considerations:

• Optimal plant population: The recommended plant population per acre for sorghum is typically between 50,000 to 100,000 plants, depending on the variety and intended use. Higher plant populations might lead to competition for resources, while lower populations may result in underutilization of the available space and reduced yields.
• Planting method: The spacing may differ based on the planting method. For instance, in broadcast planting, the seed rate should be adjusted accordingly to ensure even distribution.
• Soil fertility: In fertile soils, sorghum can be planted at slightly wider spacing compared to less fertile soils. However, nutrient availability should always be sufficient to support healthy plant growth.
• Environmental conditions: In areas with adequate rainfall or irrigation, closer spacing can be adopted, while in regions with limited water availability, wider spacing may help minimize water competition among plants.

Land Preparation for Sorghum Farming In Kenya

Prepare the land by plowing or digging to a depth of 15-20 cm to break up compacted soil and improve aeration. Remove any debris, weeds, and rocks from the field.

Seed Selection: Select high-quality sorghum seeds from reputable sources or certified seed suppliers. Look for seeds of the desired sorghum variety that are free from impurities and diseases. Quality seeds have better germination rates and produce healthier plants.

Seed Treatment (Optional): Consider seed treatment with fungicides or insecticides to protect the seeds from common pests and diseases. Seed treatments can enhance seedling vigor and reduce the risk of early pest attacks.

Decide on Planting Method: Decide on the planting method based on your farm’s size and resources. Sorghum can be sown using different methods, such as direct seeding, broadcasting, or using planting rows.

Sowing: a) Direct Seeding: For direct seeding, sow the sorghum seeds at a depth of approximately 2-5 cm, depending on soil type and moisture content. Plant the seeds at the desired spacing within rows.

b) Broadcasting: For broadcasting, evenly scatter the sorghum seeds across the entire field. Rake the soil lightly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

c) Planting Rows: If using planting rows, create furrows at the desired spacing and depth. Place the seeds in the furrows and cover them with soil.

Follow these steps when planting sorghum:

1. Plough and harrow the land to a fine tilth before the onset of rains. At harrowing, broadcast
   well-decomposed manure into the field at the rate of 10t/ha to improve the soil structure.
2. Make furrows 75cm apart with dips between the furrows to catch rain water
3. Mix planting fertilisers like DAP/NPK with soil and put along the furrows. You need 2 bags per acre
4. Make drills 2-3cm along the furrows and sow seeds thinly
5. After 2-3 weeks, weed and thin to leave a space of 20cm between sorghum plants

Management of sorghum in the field

1. Weed and thin 2 weeks after germination (when the plant has 2-3 leaves).
   Hand weeding of sorghum is much encouraged.
2. Top-dress with nitrogenous fertiliser e.g 1 bag/acre of CAN or NPK 20:20:0 when at knee
   high. Always put nitrogenous fertiliser in a 15cm ring around the sorghum plant. Foliar feeds can be used when the plant is knee-high.

Sowing

Sorghum should be sown at the onset of the long rains. Drill seeds along the furrows (trenches). Seeds should be planted 3 cm deep when dry planting to avoid germination in false rains, but 2 cm deep if the ground is wet.

Manure application

Well-composted manure should be applied during land preparation and worked into the soil. Organic foliar feeds can be added when the plant is knee high.

Thinning

If the initial seed rate leads to overcrowding, thinning the plants can help maintain the desired plant population per acre. Thinning should be done during the early growth stages to avoid plant damage and ensure uniform spacing.

The crop should be thinned when it is 30 cm high or 30 days after planting, whichever comes first, to ensure a spacing of 75 X 10 cm between rows for fodder sorghum and 60 X 20 cm between rows for dual-purpose varieties. The spacing for dual purpose varieties allows for higher grain to herbage ratio.

Harvesting

Most of the sorghum varieties mature after 65 to 75 days after sowing (50%, flowering stage). In multi-cut varieties, the first cut should be done @ 45­-50 days, and subsequent cuts should be carried at 1-month intervals.

Harvest when grain heads does not produce milk when crushed. Time to be when the rains have stopped to avoid aflatoxin caused by mouldy heads.

When harvesting, cut the heads with sickles or a sharp knife, put on a clean tarpaulin and dry to leave a moisture content of 12-13%. When well dried, put in bags ready for store.
Under good management and good variety, the yield potential is about 15 – 20 bags of 90kg/acre.

Ratooning

After harvesting, you can cut the stalks so that new suckers grow. This is know as ratooning. It allows you to have more than one harvests after sowing.

Market

Sorghum is viewed as a traditional food security crop and has largely been marketed through the local traditional marketing system. This system entails production, promotion and sale of produce, usually in low volumes, through traditional channels which include the exchange between neighbours and family and other informal avenues. The traditional channels are more supply driven and promotion is by word of mouth.

Contract farming, defined as agricultural production carried out according to an agreement between a farmer and a buyer, with predetermined conditions for production and marketing, is another marketing model applied in the sorghum value chain.

There are many ways in which companies work with farmers. The simplest approach is where the company supplies extension and all other inputs to farmers including land preparation sometimes, and then deducts the cost of those inputs and services from the final price paid to the farmer after harvest and delivery.

EABL through EAML contracts farmers willing to grow sorghum varieties suitable for malting, and sell the produce with a pre-set quality to the malting company. In return, EABL provides a ready market at a guaranteed price and extension services. EABL also ensure availability of improved sorghum seeds at an affordable price.

Pests and Diseases

Sorghum farming in Kenya is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can significantly impact crop yield and quality. Proper pest and disease management practices are crucial to ensure a successful sorghum harvest. Here are some common pests and diseases that affect sorghum farming in Kenya and strategies for their management:

Pests:

Stem Borers (Chilo partellus and Busseola fusca):

Stem borers are among the most damaging pests in sorghum farming. Their larvae bore into the stems, causing wilting, reduced plant growth, and sometimes lodging. Regular monitoring of the crop is essential to detect early infestations.

Management:

• Plant early-maturing sorghum varieties to escape peak borer populations.
• Implement the use of pheromone traps to monitor adult borer activity.
• Practice intercropping with repellent crops, such as legumes, to reduce borer infestations.
• Apply appropriate insecticides when infestations exceed economic thresholds.

Aphids (Aphis spp.):

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from sorghum plants, leading to stunted growth and the transmission of viral diseases.

Management:

• Introduce natural enemies like ladybugs and lacewings that prey on aphids.
• Apply insecticides when aphid populations exceed recommended levels.

Armyworms (Spodoptera spp.):

Armyworms are destructive pests that feed on sorghum leaves, causing severe defoliation and yield loss.

Management:

• Regularly scout fields for armyworm presence.
• Employ early planting and early harvesting to avoid peak armyworm infestations.
• Use biological control agents like parasitoid wasps and predators to manage armyworm populations.
• Use approved insecticides as a last resort when armyworm populations are high.

Sorghum Shoot Fly:

Sorghum shoot fly (Atherigona soccata) is a small fly that lays eggs on young sorghum seedlings. The larvae then tunnel into the stems, leading to dead hearts and reduced tillering. Severe infestations can cause stunted growth and plant death.

Management

• Use resistant sorghum varieties whenever available.
• Implement early planting to avoid peak shoot fly populations.
• Practice clean cultivation to reduce the carryover of shoot fly populations from one season to another.
• Apply insecticides during the early growth stages when shoot fly eggs are laid on the seedlings.

Sorghum Midge:

Sorghum midge (Contarinia sorghicola) is a tiny, yellowish fly that lays eggs in the developing florets of sorghum heads. The larvae feed on the developing seeds, leading to shriveled, empty grains and reduced yields.

Management

• Plant early-maturing sorghum varieties to escape midge populations.
• Monitor fields regularly for midge activity and the appearance of the characteristic orange larvae.
• Consider using chemical seed treatment to protect young plants from midge damage.
• If midge populations exceed thresholds, consider applying insecticides during the flowering stage.

Cutworms:

Cutworms are the caterpillar larvae of various moth species. They hide in the soil during the day and emerge at night to feed on young sorghum seedlings, cutting them off at the base. Cutworm damage can result in uneven plant stands and gaps in the field.

Management

• Implement cultural practices such as shallow cultivation and clean field preparation to expose cutworm larvae to natural enemies and adverse weather conditions.
• Handpick cutworms during the night when they are most active.
• Use biological control agents like entomopathogenic nematodes to manage cutworm populations.
• Apply approved insecticides when cutworm populations are high, targeting the base of the plants.

Grasshoppers and Locusts:

Grasshoppers and locusts are chewing insects that consume sorghum leaves and stems. Large populations can cause extensive defoliation, leading to reduced photosynthesis and yield loss.

Management

• Monitor fields for grasshopper and locust activity and assess the need for control measures.
• Implement early planting to avoid peak grasshopper and locust populations.
• Use physical barriers like nets or traps to protect sorghum plants from grasshoppers and locusts.
• Consider using approved insecticides when grasshopper or locust populations are significant.

Birds:

Birds can be significant pests in sorghum farming, especially during the grain filling stage. They feed on ripening sorghum heads, leading to significant losses in yield and quality.

Management

• Use scare tactics such as noise-making devices, scarecrows, and reflective materials to deter birds from sorghum fields during the ripening stage.
• Introduce predator perches or nesting sites to attract birds of prey that feed on pest birds.
• Consider using bird repellents or deterrent sprays on sorghum heads during the grain filling stage.

Whiteflies:

Whiteflies are tiny, winged insects that feed on sorghum sap, similar to aphids. Heavy infestations can lead to wilting, yellowing, and the transmission of viral diseases.

Management

• Monitor fields for whitefly populations, especially during dry seasons.
• Introduce natural enemies like parasitoid wasps and predators to manage whitefly populations.
• Implement good weed management practices, as weeds can serve as alternative hosts for whiteflies.
• Use approved insecticides when whitefly populations are high, targeting the undersides of leaves where whiteflies congregate.

Common Diseases in Sorghum Farming in Kenya and Their Management:

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum sublineolum):

Overview: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes small, circular to oval lesions on leaves, stems, and grains. Severe infections can lead to lodging and grain discoloration.

Management:

• Plant resistant sorghum varieties when available.
• Rotate sorghum with non-host crops to reduce disease buildup in the soil.
• Practice good field hygiene by removing and destroying infected plant debris.
• Apply approved fungicides during periods of high disease pressure.

Downy Mildew (Peronosclerospora sorghi):

Overview: Downy mildew causes yellowish-green lesions on the upper surface of leaves, with a grayish-purple downy growth on the lower surface. The disease can lead to reduced photosynthesis and stunted growth.

Management:

• Plant resistant sorghum varieties when available.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer application, as it can promote disease development.
• Provide adequate spacing between plants for better air circulation.
• Apply fungicides as a preventive measure during high humidity conditions.

Head Smut (Sporisorium reilianum):

Overview: Head smut causes galls or black masses of spores to form in the sorghum inflorescences, resulting in malformed, blackened heads with reduced grain yield.

Management:

• Plant certified disease-free seeds.
• Avoid planting sorghum in fields with a history of head smut.
• Destroy infected plants to prevent further spread of the disease.

Grain Mold:

Overview: Grain mold refers to various fungal diseases that can affect sorghum grains during storage, causing discoloration and mold growth.

Management:

• Harvest sorghum at the appropriate moisture content to prevent mold development during storage.
• Clean and dry harvested grains properly before storage.
• Use appropriate storage facilities that maintain optimal temperature and moisture levels.

Ergot (Claviceps africana):

Overview: Ergot is a fungal disease that affects sorghum inflorescences, producing dark, hard structures called sclerotia. Infected grains may be replaced by these sclerotia, causing grain loss and affecting seed quality.

Management:

• Plant certified disease-free seeds.
• Remove and destroy infected plants to reduce the source of infection.
• Monitor fields for ergot incidence and apply approved fungicides when necessary.

Rust (Puccinia purpurea):

Overview: Rust appears as reddish-brown pustules on leaves and stems. Severe infections can lead to leaf drying, reduced photosynthesis, and yield loss.

Management:

• Plant resistant sorghum varieties when available.
• Avoid planting in areas with a history of rust outbreaks.
• Remove and destroy infected plant material.
• Apply fungicides during early stages of rust development when necessary.

Leaf Blight (Exserohilum turcicum):

Overview: Leaf blight causes elongated, elliptical lesions with brown centers and yellow margins on the leaves. The disease can lead to defoliation and reduced grain filling.

Management:

• Plant resistant sorghum varieties when available.
• Provide adequate spacing between plants for better air circulation.
• Apply fungicides during periods of high disease pressure.
• Practice good field hygiene by removing and destroying infected plant debris.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of growing sorghum in Kenya?
   • Sorghum is a drought-tolerant crop, which makes it a good choice for farmers in Kenya, where rainfall is often unreliable.
   • Sorghum is a versatile crop that can be used for a variety of purposes, including food, fodder, and fuel.
   • Sorghum is a relatively low-input crop, which means that it can be grown with a limited amount of fertilizers and pesticides.
   • Sorghum is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, making it a valuable addition to the Kenyan diet.
2. What are the different types of sorghum grown in Kenya?
   • There are many different types of sorghum grown in Kenya, but some of the most common include:
     • White sorghum: This type of sorghum has white grain and is used for food, fodder, and brewing.
     • Red sorghum: This type of sorghum has red grain and is used for food, fodder, and brewing.
     • Durra sorghum: This type of sorghum is tall and has a high grain yield. It is used for food, fodder, and brewing.
     • Milo sorghum: This type of sorghum is short and has a high grain yield. It is used for food, fodder, and brewing.
3. What are the best conditions for growing sorghum in Kenya?
   • Sorghum can be grown in a variety of conditions, but it does best in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
   • Sorghum requires full sun and a warm climate.
   • The ideal temperature range for sorghum growth is 20 to 35 degrees Celsius.
4. When is the best time to plant sorghum in Kenya?
   • Sorghum can be planted in Kenya throughout the year, but the best time to plant is during the long rains season (March to June).
5. How much water does sorghum need?
   • Sorghum is a relatively drought-tolerant crop, but it does need some water to grow.
   • The amount of water that sorghum needs depends on the variety of sorghum, the soil type, and the weather conditions.
6. How much fertilizer does sorghum need?
   • Sorghum is a relatively low-input crop, but it does benefit from some fertilizer.
   • The amount of fertilizer that sorghum needs depends on the variety of sorghum, the soil type, and the weather conditions.
7. What are the most common pests and diseases that affect sorghum in Kenya?
   • The most common pests that affect sorghum in Kenya include:
     • Striga: This is a parasitic weed that can cause significant damage to sorghum crops.
     • Stem borers: These insects bore into the stems of sorghum plants, causing them to weaken and die.
     • Head borers: These insects bore into the heads of sorghum plants, destroying the grain.
   • The most common diseases that affect sorghum in Kenya include:
     • Rust: This is a fungal disease that can cause significant damage to sorghum crops.
     • Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that can cause significant damage to sorghum crops.
     • Downy mildew: This is a fungal disease that can cause significant damage to sorghum crops.
8. How do I control pests and diseases in sorghum?
   • There are a number of ways to control pests and diseases in sorghum, including:
     • Cultural control: This involves practices such as crop rotation, weeding, and destroying infected plants.
     • Chemical control: This involves using pesticides to kill pests and diseases.
     • Biological control: This involves using natural enemies of pests and diseases to control them.
9. How do I harvest sorghum in Kenya?
   • Sorghum is harvested when the grain is mature and dry.
   • The grain can be harvested by hand or by machine.
   • After harvesting, the grain is threshed to remove the chaff.
10. How do I store sorghum in Kenya?
    • Sorghum should be stored in a cool, dry place.
    • The grain should be kept in airtight containers to prevent it from becoming moldy.
11. What are the different uses of sorghum in Kenya?
    • Sorghum can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
      • Food: Sorghum grain can be used to make flour, porridge, and beer.
      • Fodder: Sorghum stalks can be used to feed livestock.

12. What are the nutritional benefits of sorghum?
    • Sorghum is a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
    • It is also a good source of fiber, iron, and magnesium.
    • Sorghum is a gluten-free grain, making it a good choice for people with celiac disease.
13. Where can I buy sorghum in Kenya?
    • Sorghum can be bought from local markets, supermarkets, and online retailers.
14. What are the challenges of growing sorghum in Kenya?
    • The main challenges of growing sorghum in Kenya include:
      • Drought: Sorghum is a drought-tolerant crop, but it can still be damaged by prolonged drought.
      • Pests and diseases: Sorghum is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases.
      • Weeds: Sorghum can be susceptible to weeds, which can compete with the crop for water and nutrients.
15. What are the opportunities for sorghum farming in Kenya?
    • The demand for sorghum is increasing in Kenya, as people are looking for more nutritious and affordable food options.
    • Sorghum is a versatile crop that can be used for a variety of purposes, making it a valuable crop for the Kenyan economy.
16. What are the government policies on sorghum farming in Kenya?
    • The Kenyan government is supportive of sorghum farming, and there are a number of government programs that support sorghum farmers.
    • These programs include providing farmers with access to improved seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
17. What are the research and development efforts on sorghum farming in Kenya?
    • There is a lot of research and development being done on sorghum farming in Kenya.
    • This research is focused on developing new varieties of sorghum that are more resistant to pests and diseases, and that have higher yields.
18. What are the future prospects for sorghum farming in Kenya?
    • The future prospects for sorghum farming in Kenya are good.
    • The demand for sorghum is increasing, and there is a lot of research and development being done on sorghum farming.
19. How can I get more information about sorghum farming in Kenya?
    • There are a number of resources available for people who want to learn more about sorghum farming in Kenya.
    • These resources include government websites, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations.
20. What is the best way to get started with sorghum farming in Kenya?
    • The best way to get started with sorghum farming in Kenya is to contact a local agricultural extension officer.
    • The agricultural extension officer can provide you with information about the best varieties of sorghum to grow in your area, and they can also help you with planting, harvesting, and storing sorghum.