University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

August 25, 2006

Photo of skip-row planted sorghum.
Skip-row sorghum trial conducted near Sidney, NE, summer 2006. It is one of several sites across the state where skip-row trials are being conducted. (IANR Photo by Drew Lyon)

Studying skip-row sorghum

This summer UNL researchers are conducting trials at several sites across the Nebraska to learn whether changes in row configuration can significantly influence the timing and use of soil water. In theory, soil water in the skipped rows can be saved for use by the crop later in the season, hopefully during the grain fill period. (UNL has conducted similar research in skip-row corn for several years. Search CropWatch to learn more about it.)

Early vegetative growth is reduced by in-row plant competition, allowing more soil moisture to be saved for plant use later in the season where it can contribute to grain fill. Investigators are looking at two plant populations and three row configurations. While plant populations vary by location, the three row configurations are the same across the state. Row configurations being investigated include plant every row (30-inch spacing), plant every other row, and plant two rows and skip two rows.

Collaborating on this research are UNL Extension Specialists Drew Lyon, Charles Wortmann, Richard Ferguson, David Tarkalson and UNL Graduate Student Akwasi Abunyewa.

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Copyright 2006 by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents. All rights reserved.
Published by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperating with the counties and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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