86 FORAGE CROPS 



Manures and fertilizers for Pearl millet 



In order that a large yield of succulent forage 

 may be secured, Pearl millet should be grown only 

 on naturally rich lands, or on those heavily manured 

 or fertilized. The soil should be thoroughly and 

 deeply prepared, for, although it is a surface feeder, 

 the roots more completely occupy the soil than is 

 the case with the Barnyard or other kinds of mil- 

 let. The manures should be broadcasted, previous 

 to seeding, at the rate of ten to twelve tons per 

 acre. Fertilizing should follow the recommenda- 

 tions made for Barnyard millet. 



Amount of seed and method of seeding 



The quantity of seed required is relatively small, 

 as the plants possess the branching habit. If 

 planted in rows to allow of tillage, three feet apart, 

 one pound of seed will be sufficient for an acre. 

 This will provide a seed every three or four inches 

 in the row. If broadcasted, three or four pounds 

 per acre will be sufficient. Pearl millet germinates 

 quickly, and grows very rapidly. It withstands 

 drought well. It should be tilled, the surface being 

 kept constantly stirred, if best results are to be 

 had, particularly in dry seasons. Pearl millet is 

 frequently grown with vining varieties of cowpeas, 

 the stalks making a good support for the peas. 



