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| Description |
| Sudan (sorghum sudanese) is an annual which is grown primarily in the deserts of Southern California. It has also been grown successfully in other, cooler climates including Washington and Oregon. Advantage is that it can be cut 2 to 3 times during the season. Sudan grass is a fine stemmed and leafy plant with very quick regrowth. As member of the same family as sorghum, forage quality will be high due to low fiber content if cut frequently. With an elevated sugar content provides a sweeter smell and taste, increased consumption rate, and digestibility for improved milk production. |
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| Harvesting and Yields |
The first cut will be ready for harvest about 60 days from planting typically between June through September. The plants should be over 26 inches in height, and just before head emergence when cut in early August. A second cut should be ready 30-35 days later.
At cutting, the crop is about 70 to 75% moisture and it typically dries slower than alfalfa. Sorghum-sudangrass can contain as much protein as mature alfalfa, but only if harvested at the vegetative stage. Energy levels in vegetative material are similar to corn and higher than alfalfa. |
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| Finishing and Packaging |
- Hay: Double compressed premium, double compressed, and single compressed
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| Grading |
- Based on color, stem size, leaf to stem ration, and texture
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