PEARL MILLET
Pennisetum glaucum
Pearl Millet / Babala is a fast growing annual summer forage crop. This erect and robust grass has an extensive root system, aiding with the adaptation to a wide variety of growing conditions.
This grass is mostly used for grazing, but can be utilized as green chop, silage and foggage. It is also used as a grain crop in areas where maize and sorghum fail.
It is best adapted to areas where the annual rainfall is between 400 mm and 1500 mm.
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1 - 5 t DM/ha/season in dry conditions
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8 - 12 t DM/ha/season under irrigation
Depending on environmental conditions and management -
Adapted to low fertility soils
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Dryland cropping and under irrigation
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Absence of prussic acid poisoning makes it safe for livestock
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Excellent drought tolerance
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Used as a windbreak in orchards
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Attracts pollinators