Black millet (Sorghum nigrum) is a striking annual ornamental grass valued for its elegant shape and distinctive look. Straight, sturdy stems form dense clumps that grow to around 100 cm, creating a strong feature in any planting scheme. The main attraction is the upright, compact flower spikes, which start in a fresh green shade and gradually darken to a deep brown-black. As they mature, the black grains catch the light with a subtle shine, making the plant an eye-catching accent in borders. It is also an excellent choice for dried bouquets and autumn displays, offering reliable decoration with simple, straightforward care.
Sow the seeds 0.5-1 cm deep. This depth helps provide good conditions for even germination and healthy early growth.
Sow in April or May, once the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Sown at the right time, the plant grows quickly, producing strong stems and full, decorative spikes.
Keep spacing at about 20 x 30 cm. This gives each plant room to develop and produce well-formed flower spikes. Adequate spacing also makes care easier and improves air flow, which helps reduce the risk of fungal problems.
Black millet flowers from July to September, when summer light brings out the depth of colour and natural sheen of the spikes. They stay decorative for a long time and remain attractive even when dry, making them ideal for seasonal arrangements.
This is a warmth-loving plant that performs best in full sun and in a position sheltered from wind. It prefers free-draining, moderately moist soil that is not too heavy, with a pH close to neutral. It is not frost hardy and is grown as an annual. It tolerates short dry spells well and does not need frequent feeding. Planted in groups, it creates a dramatic backdrop for border flowers, and the spikes can be cut and dried to enjoy their shape and colour later on.
When you choose seeds from GardenSeedsMarket, you can rely on quality and satisfying results. Each batch comes from trusted sources and is carefully tested for strong germination. GardenSeedsMarket offers fast, secure shipping and practical advice, so you receive both a dependable product and support throughout the growing process.
The pack contains 1 g of seeds. The packaging includes growing guidance and the sow-by date.
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