Background/objectives:
Due to increasing summer drought associated with climate change, multi-cut Sorghum bicolor is being discussed as a potential complement for summer forage production in Switzerland. However, only limited data are available on yield performance, forage quality, and the potential release of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) of the varieties available on the market. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate multi-cut sorghum varieties for forage production under Swiss cultivation conditions.
Methods:
Seven sorghum varieties were evaluated in field trials conducted at two sites in Switzerland (Zurich: 2019–2020; Posieux: 2023). The trials were arranged in randomized complete block designs with four replicates and managed under site-specific conditions, aiming for three cuts per season. Measurements included yield, forage quality parameters, and plant height. Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) potential was determined in selected years .
Results:
The achieved yields, showed an average total production over three cuts of 106 ± 20 dt DM ha⁻¹, with the first cut having the highest yield (41 ± 12 dt DM ha⁻¹) and the other cuts showing decreasing yields. Raw protein averaged 135 ± 36.0 g kg⁻¹ DM, digestible organic matter 67.5 ± 5.3%, and net energy for lactation (NEL) 5.5 ± 0.6 MJ kg⁻¹ DM per cut across varieties. The varieties differed significantly in total biomass and yield per cut, but not in forage quality parameters, except for NEL. The measured HCN potential were predominantly within a non-critical range (<500 mg HCN kg-1 DM), although one sample exceeded this threshold.
Conclusion:
Overall, yield and, to a lesser extent, forage quality were influenced by variety choice, while HCN potential levels were generally within a safe range, but highlight the importance of careful management. However, further trials are required to allow a more precise differentiation between varieties, particularly across a wider range of sites, in order to strengthen general recommendations for Switzerland.