KABIR is a mid-season annual grain-forage variety of Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv. subsp. italica belonging to the Poaceae family. The plant is characterized by erect stems 50–150 cm long and weak branching, which ensures a dense vegetation cover. Height during flowering reaches approximately 110 cm, and the spikelet panicle has a medium-length conical shape, positioned semi-vertically relative to the stem. Orange awns of medium size give the spikelets a characteristic appearance.
KABIR is distinguished by high yield both as green mass (about 216 kg/ha) and seeds (more than 20 kg/ha). The mass of 1000 seeds is 2.9 g, and grain fullness is 65%. The plant adapts well to various climatic conditions, is resistant to diseases and pests, making it suitable for cultivation in a wide range of regions. As a forage crop, KABIR is valued for its sugar content, vitamins (A, E, B group), carotene, and micro-/macro-elements, which improve the digestibility of other feeds and enhance lactation in dairy animals.
Hay and green mass of KABIR have high protein content and low gluten levels compared to wheat, barley, and oats, ensuring better digestibility. The plant is easily grown on chernozems but also grows on podzolic and sandy soils with the presence of nitrogen and potassium fertilizers. Sowing of seeds is done in spring in warmed soil; young seedlings do not tolerate frost, so it is recommended to start sowing after the risk of icing has passed. For hay, usually sown at a depth of 2–3 cm and using a sowing rate of about 20 kg/ha, while for grain – wide-row method with a row spacing of 30–40 cm and a rate of 15 kg/ha.
KABIR is also valuable as raw material for the production of alcohol, yeast, starch, and other products. In traditional medicine, its seeds are used for gastrointestinal disorders, and root decoctions – as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory agent. Due to its versatility, KABIR is a valuable component of the agricultural chain, providing animals with feed from summer to late autumn and allowing two cuts during the season.
