RAGT Semillas Drives Sorghum Yield Improvements in Argentina with New Technologies
The average sorghum yield in Argentina, currently around 3,800 kilograms per hectare, presents a significant opportunity for improvement. RAGT Semillas, a global seed company with a strong presence in Argentina, showcased its latest high-yield sorghum varieties and advanced technologies at its annual expo in Salto, Buenos Aires Province, aiming to challenge producers to maximize field profitability.
Technological Advancements for Enhanced Sorghum Production
RAGT Semillas presented a portfolio of sorghum varieties incorporating technologies designed to address key challenges, including damage from the yellow sugarcane aphid and weed management. These technologies include S Protect, which provides tolerance to the yellow sorghum aphid, and Igrowth, designed for effective weed control.
Key Strategies for Profitability: Sowing Date, Density, and Harvest Time
Federico Pisoni, Commercial and Marketing Manager at RAGT Argentina, emphasized three key factors for increasing sorghum profitability: sowing date, sowing density, and harvest date. He noted that current yield losses, exceeding 70%, are often attributable to neglecting these variables. “In many high-potential areas of the country, 12,000 or 14,000 kg of grain sorghum are being achieved when the average in Argentina is 3,800 kg. We have to at least double that performance if we desire to continue being an important player in the sorghum market,” Pisoni stated.
Optimizing Sowing Conditions Through Soil Temperature Monitoring
Guillermo Repetto, an advisor working with RAGT Semillas, highlighted the importance of soil temperature in determining the optimal sowing time. He recommends measuring a soil temperature of 18 degrees Celsius at a depth of five centimeters for three consecutive days to identify the ideal sowing window. “What is not measured is not improved,” Repetto emphasized, advocating for careful monitoring of variables affecting sorghum growth.
Holistic Approach to Sorghum Cultivation: Beyond Genetics
Daniel Gottschalk, commercial manager for RAGT Semillas in Buenos Aires and South of Santa Fe, stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to sorghum cultivation, encompassing fertilization and soil health. He urged producers to move away from treating sorghum as a secondary crop, recognizing its potential for high returns when provided with optimal agricultural conditions.
New Sorghum Varieties from RAGT Semillas
Agustín Cantó, Development Manager at RAGT Semillas, introduced the S Full line, combining Igrowth for weed management with S Protect for aphid tolerance. Notable varieties include TOB 1074 IG, a silero hybrid with a balanced fiber and energy profile, and TOB 1078 IG, a dual-purpose grain sorghum. The company likewise launched a new grain sorghum with S Full technology and highlighted TOB 1062 IG, known for its high yield potential, stability, and suitable plant size. Cantó emphasized the need to manage sorghum similarly to corn, with appropriate plant density and a tailored fertilization scheme, while also cautioning against delayed harvests.
RAGT Semillas’ Expanding Portfolio and Market Position
Rafael Losada, General Manager of RAGT Semillas, underscored the company’s diverse portfolio and its commitment to providing producers with the tools they need to succeed. With the current sorghum price at 200 USD, Losada believes that achieving corn-like yields with lower production costs makes sorghum a compelling business alternative. The company also showcased silero and forage sorghum varieties for early grazing, as well as its sunflower genetics.
About RAGT Semillas
RAGT Semillas, originally founded in France in 1919, has established a significant presence in Argentina and is expanding throughout Latin America. The company focuses on developing innovative and sustainable seeds for various crops, including corn, sunflower, wheat, sorghum, and legumes. RAGT Argentina S.A. is located in Salto, Buenos Aires Province, and can be reached at +54 2474 431688 or info@ragt-semillas.ar. The company also has an office in Buenos Aires: Av. Del Libertador 6966, Piso 14 Oficina A C1429BMP, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.