Description
The dense rooting system associated with this species, can really aid in breaking up and penetrating compacted soils. Nematode suppression is achieved because this species is a poor host for many nematodes and nematicidal chemical compounds are excreted by the plant through its roots. Mowing when the plants are 3-4 ft tall has been shown to stimulate root growth to expand 5-8 times as dense and penetrate twice as deep. Sorgoleone is powerful root exudate released by the plant, which even in low concentrations has proven to be more effective than commercial herbicides in weed control. This chemical can be released just five days after germination but is greatly released when chemically killed, with the effects lasting for weeks. Under ideal conditions, forage can be harvested within 60 days after planting. If you leave 6-8" of growth from the first harvest then you could expect a second cutting 30 days later. There are sterile cultivars available to eliminate weed risk potential.
