Sorghum
Sorghum bicolor · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant sorghum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Broomcorn, Broom sorghum
- Family
- Poaceae
- Type
- Annual grass
- Adult height
- 1.5 to 2.5 m
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn (July-October)
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, annual
- Origin
- Africa
Care
Sunlight
Broomcorn prefers full sun exposure, with at least 6 hours of direct daily light. This direct sunlight promotes vigorous growth and optimal panicle production. Avoid overly shaded areas that slow down development.
Soil
Adaptable to most soils, sorghum tolerates dry and poor terrain. Well-draining soil is still preferable to prevent root rot. It thrives even in difficult conditions, making it an undemanding plant.
Watering
Water regularly during the growth period, especially during prolonged drought. Once established, broomcorn resists heat well and requires less water. In containers, monitor substrate moisture without waterlogging.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring promotes initial growth. After the startup phase, the plant is not very demanding. A potassium-rich fertilizer helps strengthen stems if needed.
Pruning and harvesting
No pruning is necessary. To obtain panicles for brooms, let the inflorescences dry on the plant in autumn before harvesting. The dried stems can be cut at the base at the end of the season.
Diseases and pests
Broomcorn is generally hardy. In excessively humid conditions, watch for root rot. Dense plantings can encourage fungal diseases: ensure adequate spacing and good air circulation.
Did you know?
Used since ancient times in Africa and Asia, broomcorn produces rigid panicles perfect for making traditional brooms, hence its name. This dual-purpose plant—forage and crafts—was long essential to rural civilizations before the arrival of synthetic brooms.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Tufted hair grassDeschampsia cespitosa
- Wavy hair-grassAvenella flexuosa
- Purple moor-grassMolinia caerulea
- Reed canary-grassPhalaris arundinacea
- Common quaking grassBriza media
- Creeping soft-grassHolcus mollis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.