Although sorghum is primarily self-pollinated it does outcross and researchers knew that hybrid vigor occurred in sorghum [71]. The development of sorghum hybrids did not occur until Stephens and Holland [72] identified methods to sterilize seed parents to produce hybrids by using a cytoplasmic male sterility system. This approach was first used to produce hybrids in 1956 and within five years hybrid sorghum seed was planted on over 90% of the total U. S. grain sorghum area. Soon after development of grain sorghum hybrids, forage sorghum hybrids for both hay and silage were developed and adopted. While hybrid forage sorghum cultivars have increased yield, another important consideration has been in the enhanced logistics of seed production (i. e., higher seed yield, easier harvest and better quality).

Over the past fifty years sorghum breeding programs have continued to improve and advance sorghum genetics. Traits such as increased yield with high inputs (e. g., water and fertilizer) became important, as was protection of yield potential from both biotic and abiotic stresses. These efforts have led to substantial improvements in yield potential, grain and forage quality, and the protection of this potential through abiotic and biotic stress tolerances. Further improvement relies on a thorough understanding of the crop and genetic control of traits of importance.