When to sow foxtail millet? Master the best planting time

Foxtail millet was originally named su, also called liang, foxtail grass, yellow su, and su mi, and is an annual herbaceous plant. It is widely cultivated in the temperate and tropical zones of Eurasia, and the middle and upper reaches of the Yellow River in China are the main cultivation area. So when should it be sown? What is the method?

When should foxtail millet be sown?

The best time to sow foxtail millet is April to May each year, but in the south it can be sown around late February, while in the north it is slightly later, toward the end of March. Therefore, the specific sowing time should be determined according to local conditions. In addition, in suitable areas, autumn sowing can also be carried out.

What is the method for growing foxtail millet?

1. Seed selection and sprouting

Select high-quality, plump foxtail millet seeds, soak them in warm water for one day so they absorb water and soften their shells. After a few days, when the seeds show white sprouts and germinate, sow them in the seedling field.

2. Land selection and soil preparation

Choose flat land with plenty of sunlight for planting. Prepare the land in advance, remove weeds, apply fertilizer, and water. It is generally planted in fertile cultivated fields. Before planting, the soil must first be plowed, sufficient fertilizer applied, and the soil improved if necessary. Then ensure adequate light and good irrigation.

3. Sowing and raising seedlings

Foxtail millet seeds are sown by broadcasting. Spread them evenly directly onto the seedbed, then gently press the seeds into the soil with a wooden board. Note that 5 kg per mu is sufficient, and the seeds must not be buried. Keep the sowing depth at about 1-2 cm.

4. Management

After the seeds are sown, seedling-stage management must be done well. Thin the seedlings when the young plants have grown 5-6 leaves, weed the field frequently, and ensure an irrigation water source during droughts so they are not left without water for a long time. Pollination, the selection of insecticide varieties, and every one of these are very important.

In addition, during the growth stage, foxtail millet is easily attacked by pests and diseases such as smut and red spider mites, so growers should spray the corresponding agents in advance for prevention and control to avoid losses as much as possible.