134 



ANALYSES OF MILLET. 



IV. MILLET. 



This grain is rarely cultivated, so far as my observation extends ; and I am informed 

 that it is not held in as much esteem now as formerly. There are probably good reasons 

 why its cultivation is not regarded with favor, but I am not able to assign sufficient causes 

 why it should be neglected. Its analysis, it is true, shows that it is an exhausting crop ; 

 but an exhausting crop is also relatively valuable. Its growth is large ; and it is highly 

 probable that when left in the field for fodder, the stalks and leaves lose their value. If cut 

 when in blossom, its fodder is valuable, but its seed valueless, and it is then no better than 

 the common grasses. The grain of millet is useless as flour for bread, where maize, rye 

 and wheat, and barley, can be obtained. Its flour, if it has any, is rather coarse, and 

 brownish yellow, or the color of the seed. Millet seed, however, is rich in nutritive 

 elements, and I believe exceeds all others. It is productive : an acre, when properly 

 tilled, yields seventy bushels. In addition to tliis, the stalk, though not as valuable as 

 timothy, still is equal to oat straw for fodder, and probably superior to it. It requires a 

 rich soil, or at least produces in proportion to its richness. 



The specimens for analysis were furnished by Mr. Bement, who has often raised it, 

 and who entertains a high opinion of it, either as food for cattle when cut young, or for 

 its grain when ripened. The plants were of spontaneous growth in a field of potatoes. 



ANALYSIS OF THE MILLET. 



PROPORTIONS. 



1. Stalk and leaves. 



Actnal quantities. 



2670*00 grs. ripe, and slightly wilted, gare 



