By Umar Nsubuga
Bulrush millet (pearl millet or pennisetum glaucum) is a hardy crop well-suited to arid and semi-arid regions. It’s drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soils, making it an essential crop in many parts of the country.
Bulrush millet grows best in warm climates with annual rainfall between 300-600 mm, although it can survive in regions with less water.
Evanice Manyiraho who grows bulrush millet says it tolerates a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and even poor, infertile soils. However, it prefers well in drained soil with a pH of 5.0 to 7.5.
“Plow or till the land to loosen the soil. Remove weeds and debris, as they compete with millet seedlings for nutrients and moisture,” she says.
She advises farmers to use certified, and high-quality seeds. Choose early maturing or drought-tolerant varieties suited to your region.
In regions with one rainy season, she says plant at the onset of the rains. For areas with two rainy seasons, plant after the first rains.
She advises farmers to use 4-5 kg of seeds per acre, it’s important to sow seeds 2-3 cm deep in the soil, 50 cm between rows and 10-15 cm between plants in a row.
According to Manyiraho, bulrush millet is drought-tolerant, and good moisture during the early growth stages is crucial for optimal germination and plant establishment.
She explains that irrigation may be required in regions with less rainfall, particularly during seedling emergence.
Fertilisation
“You can apply organic manure like compost or farmyard manure before planting to improve soil fertility. Top-dress with nitrogen during tillering to boost plant development,” she explains.
Weeding and pest control
Remove weeds regularly, especially in the early stages, as they compete with millet for water and nutrients, she states.
Bulrush millet can be susceptible to pests like aphids and stem borers, she says using organic pesticides or biological will minimise damage.
Harvesting
She says bulrush millet is ready for harvest bewteen 3-4 months after planting, depending on the variety.
“Harvest when the panicles turn yellow and seeds are hard. Cut the heads and sun-dry them before threshing. After drying, thresh the millet to separate the grains from the stalk,” she says.
Advantages
Muhammad Malinga, an agronomist says bulrush millet is a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins (such as niacin and thiamine), and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
“It’s an excellent grain option for those with gluten intolerance. Millet is digested slowly, helping regulate blood sugar levels, making it ideal for people with diabetes,” he explains.
Environmental benefits
Malinga says bulrush millet thrives in arid and semi-arid regions where other crops fail. It requires less water and is resilient in extreme climatic conditions.
He says its deep root system improves soil structure and enhances water retention in the soil.
Millet can grow in poor soils and doesn’t require heavy fertilisation or irrigation, making it a low-input crop.
Economic and livelihood benefits
Malinga says bulrush millet is used for human consumption, animal fodder, and brewing alcoholic beverages.
“It has a shorter growing cycle compared to other cereals, allowing farmers to grow it even in areas with short rainy seasons,” he says.
Millet is becoming increasingly popular in health-conscious markets due to its nutritional benefits, creating opportunities for income generation.
Health benefits
Sharon Naluwende, a nutritionist says the high fiber content helps in preventing constipation and promoting gut health.
“Due to its high iron content, bulrush millet can help prevent iron deficiency anemia. The grain’s magnesium content aids in regulating blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health,” she explains.
LEAD PHOTO CAPTION: Evanice Manyiraho shows harvested bulrush millet. Photo by Umar Nsubuga
