How to Grow Broomcorn
Wikimedia Commons
Broomcorn
Sorghum bicolor subsp. technicum
grassBroomcorn is a specialized variety of sorghum cultivated for its long, stiff bristles that are used to make brooms and brushes. It grows as a tall annual grass reaching 8-14 feet, with distinctive seed heads composed of flexible fibers. The plant is hardy, drought-tolerant, and relatively easy to cultivate.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Broomcorn in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Broomcorn timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Broomcorn
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Broomcorn
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Broomcorn dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8; tolerates zones 3-9 with appropriate timing
Sign up free to see if Broomcorn grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Broomcorn timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds sprout within 7-10 days; seedlings develop 2-3 true leaves and establish a strong root system
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; thin seedlings to proper spacing; protect from birds and rodents attracted to seed
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant grows rapidly, developing long sword-like leaves and a sturdy central stem; reaches 3-6 feet tall
Maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced fertilizer at mid-growth; stake taller varieties in windy locations; control weeds
Boot & Head Emergence
3-4 weeksTerminal seed head begins to emerge from the leaf sheath; plant reaches full height of 8-14 feet
Reduce nitrogen to encourage bristle development; maintain adequate water; monitor for pests; reduce watering frequency
Flowering & Bristle Development
3-4 weeksSeed head fully emerges and expands; individual bristles elongate and become rigid; flowers are inconspicuous
Minimize water to strengthen bristles; avoid excessive nitrogen; protect from high winds and heavy rain that may damage fibers; monitor closely
Harvest Readiness
2-3 weeksBristles reach full length (18-24 inches), turn golden-tan to brown, and become completely rigid and dry
Do not water; allow complete drying in field; bristles should snap cleanly when bent; seeds should be hard
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Handpick early infestations; encourage natural predators; use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for severe outbreaks; monitor regularly
-
Plant early-maturing varieties; destroy crop residue after harvest; crop rotation; insecticidal sprays if severe
-
Reduce dust through cultivation; encourage natural predators; neem oil spray; remove grass hosts nearby
-
and
(fungal)
Use disease-resistant varieties; treat seed with fungicide; practice crop rotation; avoid overhead irrigation at flowering
-
Use netting or bird-scare tactics early; delay harvest until bristles are fully mature and seeds hard
Uses
Broom & brush manufacturing
CraftThe long, stiff bristles are traditionally bundled and bound to make natural brooms and decorative brushes. Broomcorn bristles are prized for their durability, flexibility, and natural golden color. [source]
Grain and seed harvesting
CulinaryThe seeds from broomcorn are edible and nutritious, and can be ground into flour or used whole as a grain similar to other sorghum varieties. Young shoots can be consumed as a vegetable. [source]
Decorative and dried arrangements
HouseholdDried broomcorn heads are used in fall decorations, floral arrangements, and rustic home décor. The natural tan and golden tones complement autumn and vintage aesthetics. [source]
Seed for birds and wildlife
WildlifeMature seed heads left standing provide food for wild birds and beneficial insects throughout fall and winter. The tall plants also offer shelter for ground-nesting birds and pollinators. [source]
Traditional and nutritional value
MedicinalSorghum has been used in traditional medicine in Africa and Asia for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Modern research supports sorghum's role in managing blood sugar and cholesterol. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when bristles are fully dry, rigid, and tan to golden-brown (typically late August through September in northern zones). Cut the seed head and stems 6-18 inches below the head using a sharp knife or scythe. Lay bundles on a tarp to finish drying in the sun for 2-4 weeks. Once completely dry, thresh by hand or machine to remove seeds from bristles. Bristles should snap cleanly and feel completely firm. Store in a dry location away from moisture.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Broomcorn has been cultivated for centuries, with evidence of broom-making dating back to ancient Egypt and China; it became a major U.S. crop in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas as top producers.
- 🌱 A single broomcorn plant can produce a seed head with 1,000-2,000 individual bristles; a mature broom requires bristles from approximately 50-100 plants, and a skilled craftsperson can hand-tie dozens of brooms per day.
- 🌱 Broomcorn is extremely drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil where many crops fail, making it historically important in marginal agricultural regions; it requires no pesticides or herbicides in many growing conditions.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Broomcorn planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Broomcorn seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Broomcorn timeline →