Black Amber Broom Corn (105 days, Heirloom)

Closely related to corn, this heirloom sorghum is from Waco, Texas, also known as Texas Black Amber Molasses. Stalks were used for forage, silage and sorghum syrup, due to a high sugar content and were used to replace sugar cane. Black Amber Broom Corn seed heads are similar to corn tassels but, consist of shiny black hulls encasing amber colored seeds. Use for fall decoration or for bird seed. Grows 8-12’.                        

100 seeds

PLANTING

Sorghum bicolor

Germination:7-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 60-85ºF. Planting in soil under 60ºF results in poor germination.

Seed Sowing Depth:½ ” deep

Sowing Outdoors: In late spring , after the last frost date , when soil reaches at least 60ºF. Sow 4-6” apart, thin to 10-12” apart.

How much does a packet plant: 25-30 foot single row.

Harvest: When the seeds are fully mature with a hard glossy seeds. Cut stalks and allow them to dry out.

Tips: Add manure (in the fall) or rich compost a few weeks before planting. Add a high nitrogen fertilizer 6 weeks after planting. Keep Black Amber Broom Corn well weeded, especially when they are seedlings and well watered.