TEXICOA SORGHUM

Sorghum bicolor

ORGANIC

Sorghum is an ancient African crop cultivated since at least 5000 BCE. Plants produce both cereal and syrup. Long grown to varying degrees of success in the Americas, it was one of the first crops planted by European settlers on the tall grass prairies of the Midwest. Closely related to sugarcane, sorghum is adapted to tropical climates, but centuries of breeding and selection have given us a broad spectrum of varieties acclimated to culture in much of the northern United States.

Texicoa is a relatively compact sorghum, topping out at just 4', and is fairly acclimated to short seasons and cool nights. Best for grain production rather than syrup, the white seeds mature in autumn and are suitable for popping or grinding into flour. Like corn, plants prefer fertile well-drained soils, although they are much more tolerant of drought and flooding. Self-pollinating.

Sow these seeds into warm (at least 65°F) soil in spring. Plant at least 1/2" deep and several inches apart in full sun. Water frequently until germinated and well-rooted. Plants will sometimes produce tillers, or branches, and these are often productive given enough light. Space generously where possible.

Sorghum loves heat, and production will suffer in an especially cool season. Seeds absolutely will not germinate in cold wet soils, so do not rush to plant in spring! Be patient and use a soil thermometer. In late summer, birds will go out of their way to snack on the seedheads just before they are ready to harvest. You'll need a scarecrow.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.