
Introduction
Sorghum is an essential crop in the United States, widely used for animal feed, biofuels, and food products. Known for its drought resistance and adaptability to various climates, sorghum plays a significant role in U.S. agriculture. While it is grown in several states, certain regions stand out for their large-scale production. This report examines the leading sorghum-producing states in America and their importance to the U.S. sorghum industry.

1. Kansas – The Sorghum Capital of the U.S.
Production Volume: Kansas consistently leads the nation in sorghum production, contributing nearly 40% of the country’s total output. The state’s warm climate and rich soil provide an ideal environment for sorghum cultivation, particularly in the western and central regions of the state.
Key Factors for Success: Kansas’s long history of sorghum production is due in part to its large farming communities, favorable weather conditions, and infrastructure for processing and export. Farmers in Kansas primarily grow sorghum for animal feed, with a significant portion also being used for biofuel production. The state’s agricultural infrastructure, including grain elevators and transportation networks, ensures the efficient distribution of sorghum to domestic and international markets.
Market Share: 40% of U.S. sorghum production.
Kansas’s dominance in sorghum production solidifies its status as the nation’s leading producer.
2. Texas – A Significant Contributor to U.S. Sorghum Production
Production Volume: Texas is another major producer of sorghum, typically contributing around 20% of the total U.S. production. The state’s vast size and diverse agricultural zones make it one of the top regions for growing sorghum. Texas produces sorghum in several regions, including the High Plains, the South Plains, and the Rio Grande Valley.
Key Factors for Success: Texas benefits from a long growing season, which allows for multiple harvests per year. Sorghum is widely used in Texas for both animal feed and biofuels. The state’s proximity to Mexico also makes it a key player in the sorghum export market, as much of the state’s production is shipped across the border.
Market Share: 20% of U.S. sorghum production.
Texas’s diverse growing conditions and strong export market make it a critical player in the U.S. sorghum industry.
3. Oklahoma – A Strong Sorghum-Producing State
Production Volume: Oklahoma ranks third in the U.S. for sorghum production, contributing about 15% of the country’s output. The state’s climate, with hot summers and relatively dry conditions, is conducive to sorghum cultivation. Oklahoma’s farmers typically grow sorghum for animal feed, although there is also increasing interest in sorghum for biofuel production.
Key Factors for Success: Oklahoma’s strong agricultural infrastructure, including well-established irrigation systems, allows farmers to manage the state’s dry climate effectively. The state’s central location in the U.S. also provides easy access to domestic markets and transportation networks. Additionally, Oklahoma’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices has contributed to the increased production of sorghum as a biofuel source.
Market Share: 15% of U.S. sorghum production.
Oklahoma’s agricultural efficiency and central location make it a top contender in U.S. sorghum production.
4. Nebraska – A Growing Sorghum Producer
Production Volume: Nebraska is a rising star in sorghum production, contributing approximately 10% of the total U.S. output. While historically known for its corn and soybean production, Nebraska has seen a steady increase in sorghum acreage over the past decade. The state’s climate and soil conditions make it an ideal location for sorghum cultivation.
Key Factors for Success: Nebraska’s farmers are increasingly turning to sorghum as a drought-resistant alternative to corn, especially in the state’s western and central regions. Sorghum’s resilience to dry conditions makes it a reliable crop during periods of low rainfall. Nebraska’s strong agricultural extension services and educational programs also help farmers improve sorghum yields and efficiency.
Market Share: 10% of U.S. sorghum production.
Nebraska’s expanding role in sorghum production highlights its potential to grow further as a key contributor to the U.S. sorghum industry.
5. South Dakota – An Emerging Sorghum State
Production Volume: South Dakota contributes around 5% of the U.S. sorghum production. Although not traditionally known for sorghum, the state has seen increased interest in the crop in recent years, particularly in the western regions. Farmers in South Dakota are drawn to sorghum for its drought tolerance, making it a suitable option for the state’s dry climate.
Key Factors for Success: South Dakota’s farming community is increasingly adopting sorghum as part of crop rotation systems. The state’s commitment to sustainable farming practices, including reduced water usage and enhanced soil health, has made sorghum a preferred choice for many farmers. South Dakota’s proximity to major grain markets, along with its established transportation infrastructure, ensures that sorghum grown in the state reaches domestic and export markets efficiently.
Market Share: 5% of U.S. sorghum production.
South Dakota’s emerging role in sorghum production reflects the broader trend of states diversifying their crop offerings.
6. Other Notable Sorghum Producing States
While Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and South Dakota are the top sorghum-producing states, several other states also contribute to the national production, including Missouri, Colorado, and Arkansas. These states account for the remaining 10% of the total U.S. sorghum production, with each having unique growing conditions that support sorghum farming.
Conclusion
The U.S. is a global leader in sorghum production, with Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma being the top contributors to the nation’s output. Sorghum is an important crop for U.S. farmers, especially as a drought-resistant option for animal feed and biofuel production. As climate change continues to impact agriculture, sorghum’s role in U.S. farming is expected to grow, particularly in regions like Nebraska and South Dakota, where interest in the crop is increasing. The top sorghum-producing states in America not only drive the domestic supply of this versatile crop but also play a key role in meeting global demand for sorghum.