Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica)

Plant Characteristics: Leafy, fine-stemmed perennial with a cylindrical seed head.

Establishment: Foxtail millet has a good drought tolerance. It can be grown throughout the state. Planting is best from May to July. Seeding can be drilled at rates of 15 to 20 lb/ac or broadcast at 20 to 30 lb/ac. It should be planted at a 1/4 to 1/2-inch depth.

Fertilization: Responds well to nitrogen.

Grazing/Hay Management: Foxtail millet is not commonly grown in Mississippi, but can be used as hay. Harvest should occur at the head stage (60 to 70 days after planting). This could be between July and September depending on the planting date. Yields range from 4 to 6 tons/ac. Only one cut will be obtained.

Forage Quality: Not recommended for feeding horses. It can cause kidney and joint problems. Under drought conditions, nitrate poisoning could be a problem.