Tiganская Sudan grass (Sorghum xdrummondii) – an early-maturing annual grass distinguished by its high drought resistance and adaptability to climatic conditions. Plants reach a height of 140–180 cm, with stems of medium thickness, lanceolate leaves measuring 48–50 cm in length, and a loose, long panicle ranging from 36 to 42 cm. The seeds are elongated, black, and glabrous, with a mass of 1000 seeds ranging from 11.2 to 15.9 g.
The variety exhibits high productivity: the average yield of dry matter in the region is about 60.9 c/ha, and seeds – 13.8 c/ha. Under optimal growing conditions, up to four cuts can be harvested per season, making it attractive for the feed industry. High protein content (up to 11% in green mass) and a rich profile of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, carotene, as well as trace elements Fe, Mg, Zn, Mn, and K make hay from this grass a valuable feed for livestock.
Tiganская Sudan grass is easy to cultivate at stable positive temperatures and warmed soil (9–11 °C). The vegetative period of up to 120 days allows for multiple cuts: the first after 65–70 days, the second – after 40–45 days, and the third – after 30 days. The recommended cutting height is 6–8 cm. Due to its nutritional value and high yield, it holds leading positions among feed grasses, providing quality nutrition for cows, horses, sheep, and pigs.
As a result, growing on one hectare can yield over 1000 centners of grass annually, and hay with proper cutting reaches 5–9 t/ha. This makes Tiganская Sudan grass a sought-after product for farm enterprises and feed mills.
