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Pearl-MILLET

Warm Season - Grass

Pearl Millet is a warm season annual grass that is best kniown in the U.S. as a forage crop.  Including the grain head, the plant will typically be about 4 to 5 feet tall, although height can vary from 3 to 6 feet depending on variety and growing conditions.  Pearl Millet has rapid growth and root development, sending extensive roots both laterally and downward into the soil profile to take advantage of available moisture and nutrients.  Pearl millet is a strong nitrogen scavenger and prevents erosion.

SOIL ADAPTABILITY:

 

Drainage:  Poorly to well-drained soils

 

Fertility:    Good tolerance of low soil fertility

 

pH Level:   5.5 - 7.5

 

Minimum Soil Germination Temp: 65°F

 

 

 

SEEDING / GROWTH:

 

 

Dates: Do not begin early planting until soil temperatures at least 70°F.  Planting in cooler soils will cause problems with reduced emergence and greater competition from weeds.

 

Rates:

         Precision:   Not recommended

           Drilled:           4 lb/A

         Broadcast:   5 lb/A

          Aerial:             6 lb/A

 

Average seeds/lb: 82,300

Inoculate: NR*

Emergence: 7 days

Height: 2-4'

Drought & Heat: Excellent drought tolerance

                                  Excellent heat tolerance

Flooding:   Does not tolerate flooding

PROS:

  • N Scavenger

  • Soil Builder

  • Erosion Preventer

  • Lasting Residue

  • Weed Fighter

  • Grazing and Forage Value

 

 

 

CONS:

 

 

  • Incorporating when maure can be a moderate problem.

  • Nitrate toxicity can be a concern.

 

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