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ANALYSES QF 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 this, 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. 
Actual quantities. 
2670 - 00 grs. ripe, and slightly wilted, gave 
Dry 
Ash 
1309-00 
99-73 
48-65 per centum. 
3-73 
2. Millet heads in blossom. 
Dry 
Ash 
260-00 grs. gave 
167-00 
15-74 
64-23 per centum. 
6-05 
3. Millet grain. 
Dry 
Ash 
840*000 grs. gave 
not obtained. 
2S-615 
3‘40 per centum. 
