Pearl Millet

Pearl millet is a summer annual crop. It is an important grain and forage crop in Africa and South Asia and a forage crop in the Americas. It is mostly grown under hot, dry conditions on infertile soils of low water-holding capacity, where other crops generally fail.

when you are allergic to wheat and looking for the best alternative? Try pearl millet, and get relief from celiac disease and other gluten allergies.

Nomenclature

Botanical Name Pennisetum glaucum
Family Poaceae
Genus Cenchrus
Species americanus
Types Foxtail, Kodo millet, Finger Millet, and Fonio

Planting Guide

Flowers

Flower Color: Gold/Yellow, Purple/Lavender
Flower Inflorescence: Raceme
Flower Value To Gardener: Good Cut, Good Dried, Showy
Flower Bloom Time: Summer
Flower Shape: Tubular

Fruits

Fruit Color: Brown/Copper, Gold/Yellow, White
Fruit Value To Gardener: Edible
Display/Harvest Time:Fall, Summer
Fruit Type: Caryopsis

Leaves

Leaf Color: Green
Leaf Feel: Rough
Leaf Value To Gardener: Showy
Leaf Type: Simple
Leaf Shape: Lanceolate Linear
Hairs Present: Yes

Collect Seeds

Dry the seed either under sun or using mechanical hot air driers to reduce the moisture content to 10%

Harvest  

Harvest 5–6 weeks after bagging, depending on how long the accession takes to reach maturity.

Soil Texture Clay, Loam (Silt) , Sand, Shallow Rocky
Soil Drainage Occasionally Dry, Very Dry
Soil Chemistry

pH 5.6 to 6.2

Cultivation

Germination 7 day
Bloom 40 days-120 days

Temperature (Climate)
Temperature 20-30°C
Light full sun
Health Benefits

✓ A Rich Source of Protein
✓ A Rich Source of Fibre
✓ Loaded with Antioxidants
✓ A Healthy Gluten-Free Option
✓ Pearl Millet is Good for Weight Watchers
✓ Helps Reducing Insulin Resistance in Diabetics
✓ Relieve Constipation
✓ Good for Vision and Eye Health
✓ Helps to Reduce Cholesterol
✓ Millet Powder is Good for the Heart
✓ Regulates Blood Pressure
✓ Millet Powder is Good for Skin