This year, growing sorghum had many challenges, but thankfully, we have so far been blessed with a slow migration of the sugarcane aphid. Chinch bugs and headworms were a bigger issue this year, but compared to the sugarcane aphid last year, they were easily controlled if needed.

On Oct. 4 at 9:30 a.m., join K-State Research and Extension at a milo plot tour. The plot is located on Josh Debbs’ ground located ¾ of a mile north of K-4 on 20th Ave east of Hoisington. The plot consists of 15 varieties from several seed companies. Dr. J.P. Michaud, Dr. Lucas Haag and representatives from the seed companies will be on hand to discuss this year’s milo, how the varieties fared through this season, and to answer your questions. There will be coffee and doughnuts made possible from our sponsor, First Kansas Bank, so RSVP to the Barton County Extension at 620-793-1910 for an accurate head count.

There are also two more sorghum plot tours held close to Barton County on Oct. 4. The Ellsworth County plot tour will start at noon. From Hollyrood, take Ave T west to 4th Rd, and go 1 ¼ miles north. A meal will follow the tour. The Russell County Plot will start at 5:30. The plot is located two miles north of Susank, and 1 ½ miles west. A dinner will be served concluding the tour. For information on these two plots, and to RSVP for the meals, contact the Midway District at either 785-483-3157 or 785-472-4442.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. One can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.