Comparison between grain Sorghum generations: an agronomic and economic analysis

Abstract

At EMBRAPA/UEPAE de Pelotas, at Pelotas, RS, Brazil, a study was conducted with grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.), to detect variations in grain yield and other agronomic traits between hybrids and their subsequent generations. Seeds were harvested from four commercial hybrids and used to plant the subsequent crop. In 1980/81 and 1981/82, Agroceres 1002, Pioneer 8311, BR 300, BR 301 and TE Y 101 cultivars (plots) and F₁ (or hybrid), F₂, F₃ and F₄ generations (subplots) were planted in a split-plot design. Higher yields were observed in the F₁ or hybrid generation. Many agronomic traits were variable in F₂, F₃ and F₄ generations, causing difficulties in mechanical harvest. Economical analysis indicated that the purchased seed of a uniform cultivar was economically and agronomically the best option to the farmer.