Foxtail Millet

Foxtail millet is an annual warm season grass which can grow 2 - 4 ft tall, if properly managed. Foxtail millet was cultivated in China as early as 2000 BC, and later introduced to Europe. It was brought to the US in about 1850, and is often used as emergency summer grazing or hay. More commonly, however, it is used for stabilization of construction and disturbed soil sites. Foxtail millet may have a place in pasture systems where the primary grass fails or is in short supply. Foxtail millet has been largely replaced, though, by other summer annuals as they are typically superior in quality and yield. When used, foxtail millet should be broadcasted at a rate of 20 – 25 pounds of seed per acre, at a soil depth of ¼ to ½ inch, and on a firm seed bed.

Dr. Dennis Hancock
Forage Extension Specialist
Crop & Soil Sciences Dept.