Pearl millet | |
| Species: | Pearl millet |
| Scientific Name: | Pennisetum glaucum |
| Cultivars: | Dwarf types; Tall Types; Tifleaf I, Tifleaf II, Tifleaf III (these are leafier than taller types) |
| Growth Habit: | 4-8 feet tall, erect. Abundant tiller after establishment. Stems are glabrous (not pubescent, lack hairs). |
| Life Cycle: | Annual |
| Origin: | Africa |
| Production Season: | June-September |
| Nutritive Value: | High quality for growing or lactating animals. |
| Use: | Grazing, silage, hay, wildlife. If rotationally stocking, graze every 2-4 weeks (graze at stubble of 14-24 inches, and graze it not lower than 6-8 inches). |
Adaptation | |
| Soil: | Sandy-loam, moist but well drained; tolerates drought and very short term flooding. |
| pH: | 5.5 - 7.0 |
| Rainfall: | |
| Temperature: | Warm, tropical conditions. Seedling growth is sensitive to cool conditions. |
Management | |
| Planting Date: | Mid March to June. In North Florida, earliest planting is April 1st. |
| Planting Depth: | 0.25-0.50 inch |
| Seeding Rate: | 12 to 15 lb/acre in rows, or 30 to 40 lbs/acre if broadcast |
| Seed Cost: | |
| Fertilization: | For fertilization info click this link |
| Production: | 5000 to 10000 lb/acre |
Notes | |
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| Click on photo to view full size. |