How to Grow Broomcorn Red
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Broomcorn Red
Sorghum bicolor subsp. technicum
grassBroomcorn Red is a decorative grain sorghum variety grown for its distinctive reddish seed heads, which are traditionally harvested and used for making brooms and other craft items. This tall annual grass produces sturdy stalks and vibrant panicles that dry well for long-lasting ornamental and functional use. It's both a practical crop and a visually striking garden addition.
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Example Broomcorn Red timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Broomcorn Red
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Broomcorn Red
Around Jul 26≈ 100 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Broomcorn Red dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; can be grown in zone 4b with protection
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Seedling
2-3 weeksEmergence of thin, grass-like leaves; seedlings are small and delicate with 2-3 true leaves visible
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once 4-6 inches tall. Protect from heavy rain and wind.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksRapid stem elongation and leaf development; plants develop 8-15 leaves and establish strong root systems; heights reach 3-8 feet
Reduce watering frequency as drought tolerance increases. Provide support in windy locations. Monitor for early pest activity. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
Heading
2-3 weeksFormation of the panicle (seed head) at the top of the stalk; characteristic red color begins to show; flowering structures emerge
Maintain consistent watering during this critical stage. Stop fertilizing. Plants are most vulnerable to pest damage at this stage. Stake tall varieties if needed.
Grain Development & Ripening
3-4 weeksSeeds mature on the panicle; color deepens from red to dark crimson/burgundy; plant begins drying naturally; foliage yellows
Reduce watering significantly. Allow plants to dry in the field. Protect from birds if harvesting for seeds. Do not water during this stage.
Harvest-Ready
Ready at 100-140 daysPanicles are fully dried and brittle; seeds are hard and difficult to dent with a fingernail; stalks are dry and sturdy
Harvest when panicles are completely dry and rattle when shaken. Cut panicles at desired stem length. Cure further in a dry location for 1-2 weeks before use.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Plant early-maturing varieties; use insecticidal soap during heading; encourage natural predators; remove infested panicles
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Monitor regularly; use reflective mulches; encourage parasitic wasps; spray with neem oil if infestation occurs
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Use floating row covers for young plants; encourage predatory birds; apply diatomaceous earth; use neem oil if severe
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Hand-pick early infestations; use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis); encourage beneficial insects; monitor at dusk
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Use bird netting over panicles; hang reflective tape or old CDs; use bird spikes; employ sound deterrents
Uses
Traditional Broommaking
CraftThe seed-head panicles are the primary material for handcrafted brooms, a traditional use dating back centuries. The individual bristles can be sorted and tied to create brooms of varying stiffness and quality. [source]
Dried Floral & Ornamental Arrangements
CraftThe striking red seed heads are prized by florists and crafters for dried arrangements, wreaths, and fall decorations. They maintain their deep color and structure for extended periods. [source]
Grain Production
CulinaryBroomcorn varieties can produce edible grain sorghum that can be ground into flour, used in porridges, or processed into sorghum syrup. The grain is gluten-free and nutrient-dense. [source]
Natural Cleaning Supplies
HouseholdHomemade brooms from broomcorn panicles serve as sustainable, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic brooms. They're effective for sweeping and reduce reliance on plastic products. [source]
Bird & Pollinator Support
WildlifeUnharvested broomcorn provides seeds and shelter for wild birds during migration and winter months. The tall plants also attract beneficial insects and create habitat. [source]
Harvest Tips
Harvest panicles when fully dry and brittle, typically 100-140 days after planting. Cut the panicle 6-12 inches below the seed head using sharp pruners or a knife. Hang bundles upside down in a dry, well-ventilated location for 1-2 weeks to fully cure. For broomcorn use, straighter, longer panicles are preferred. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Broomcorn was commercially grown across the United States in the 18th-20th centuries, with entire regions dedicated to production; Oklahoma was once the broomcorn capital with thousands of acres.
- 🌱 The name 'broomcorn' is misleading—it's not corn at all, but a specialized variety of sorghum selected specifically for the bristle-like quality of its panicles.
- 🌱 A single broomcorn plant can produce one panicle containing 800-2,000 individual bristles, each of which can measure 12-24 inches long depending on variety and growing conditions.
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