Ponki — an intensive hybrid of common (grain) sorghum, bred for grain, starch, and alcohol production. This medium-early variety, developed in the USA and certified to OECD standards, features plant height of 1.0–1.1 meters and a semi-open panicle on a long peduncle, ensuring good ventilation. The grain is large, heavy, white, with a 1000-seed mass of about 33 grams, has a glassy endosperm, and high milling capacity, making it especially valuable for processing.
The hybrid exhibits high cold tolerance during early development, enabling it to withstand early planting even in cold soil. The vegetative period is 110–115 days, and the potential grain yield reaches 110–120 centners per hectare. Ponki is characterized by high drought tolerance, lodging resistance, disease and pest resistance, particularly to biotypes 'A' and 'C' of the aphid. The grain contains no tannin, enhancing its nutritional value, with protein and starch content reaching 14% and 75% respectively.
The recommended seeding rate is 120–200 thousand seeds per hectare, ensuring optimal productive tillering of 2–3. Thanks to its characteristics and resilience, the Ponki hybrid is suitable for cultivation in a wide area and is a reliable choice for farmers targeting high-quality grain and industrial raw materials.
