A sorghum–Sudan grass trial in Iğdır: exploring an alternative forage crop

According to a Sözcü report dated 29 September 2026, sorghum–Sudan grass hybrid was trialled on 10 decares in Oba village, Iğdır. The report says grower Şahset Tınakçı reported about five tonnes per decare at the first cut. It also says the crop may be cut three times a year under suitable conditions and that seed was supplied with a 75% grant through the Effective Use of Agricultural Lands project. These are details reported about that trial and the statements made in the article.

Sorghum–Sudan grass hybrid is one warm-season grass option used for livestock forage. The report highlights claims of lower costs and higher yields than silage maize, but it does not provide a comparative cost breakdown, all production conditions, or detail on the cut and moisture basis used for the yield figure. The headline claim that costs are halved and yields doubled should therefore not be treated as a guaranteed outcome for every farm.

Producers considering a trial should compare seed variety and sourcing, planting date, irrigation needs, number of cuts, dry-matter yield, silage quality, and harvest and transport costs against the forage crop currently grown on the same area and during the same period. Results from Iğdır do not automatically transfer to the climate, soil, and water conditions of Güney Eşme or Buldan. A small local plot trial and technical review with the district agriculture office can provide more reliable evidence before making a large-scale planting decision.

The reported seed grant is also tied to the project and application period. Producers should confirm current eligibility and support terms with their Provincial or District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry.