Black Amber Broom Corn (105 days, Heirloom)

Sorghum bicolor

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. 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.  Grow 8-12’.                        

50 seeds

PLANTING

Germination: 7-14 days

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

Seed Sowing Depth: ½ ” deep

Outside Sowing: After the last frost date, when soil reaches at least 60 degrees F. Sow 3-4” apart, thin to 10-12” apart.

How much does a packet plant: 10-12 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 organic fertilizer 6 weeks after planting. Keep well weeded, especially when they are seedlings and well watered.