How to Grow Durango Red Broomcorn
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Durango Red Broomcorn
Sorghum bicolor subsp. technicum
grainDurango Red Broomcorn is a sorghum variety specifically bred for broom and brush production, featuring deep red panicles that are stiff, long, and ideal for sweeping tools. This heirloom variety produces sturdy fiber that has been used for centuries in traditional broom-making. It combines ornamental appeal with practical utility in the garden and workshop.
When should you plant Durango Red Broomcorn in your zone?
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Example Durango Red Broomcorn timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Durango Red Broomcorn
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 Durango Red Broomcorn
Around Jul 26≈ 100 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Durango Red Broomcorn dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; can grow in zone 4 with warm summers
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Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall green shoots emerge with 2-4 true leaves developing. Plants are tender and vulnerable.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to proper spacing (6 inches) early. Protect from wind and intense sun if recently transplanted.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksTall stems with long, blade-like green leaves develop. Plants rapidly increase in height, reaching 4-6 feet.
Water regularly and provide nitrogen-rich fertilizer if soil is poor. Stake plants in windy locations. Remove any diseased or weak growth. Maintain consistent moisture.
Flowering/Panicle Development
3-4 weeksRed panicles emerge at the top of stems, initially compact and developing into characteristic broom-like heads with long, thin, rigid branches.
Reduce nitrogen to avoid excessive leaf growth at the expense of panicle quality. Maintain consistent moisture during panicle expansion. Watch for pests and diseases.
Maturation & Hardening
3-4 weeksPanicles fully expand and harden. Seeds develop and mature. Panicles deepen in red color and fibers become stiff and brittle.
Reduce watering gradually. Avoid overhead irrigation to prevent fungal issues. Monitor for ripeness—panicles should be completely dry and fibers rigid.
Harvest Ready
Ongoing from maturityPanicles are fully mature, completely dried, and fibers are stiff and suitable for broom-making. Seeds may be slightly damp in centers but overall plant is dry.
Harvest when panicles are completely dry and brown. Cut stems just below the panicle head for best results. Dry further in well-ventilated area before use.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Choose resistant varieties, use insecticidal soap if populations are high, encourage natural predators
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Hand-pick on small infestations, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), encourage bird populations
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Spray with neem oil or miticide if severe, maintain adequate humidity and moisture
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Row covers on young plants, use insecticidal soap, encourage predatory wasps
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Dust with diatomaceous earth, use reflective mulches, remove infected plants
Uses
Traditional Broom Making
CraftThe rigid panicles are ideal for crafting natural brooms and brushes. The stiff fibers bundle beautifully and create durable sweeping tools with excellent bristle retention. This heirloom variety has been used for centuries in folk craft traditions. [source]
Natural Cleaning Brushes
HouseholdIndividual panicles or sections can be fashioned into hand-held scrub brushes for household cleaning. The natural fiber is gentle on most surfaces yet effective for scrubbing. [source]
Ornamental Dried Arrangements
CraftThe dramatic deep red panicles are striking in dried flower arrangements and add natural aesthetic appeal to home décor. They maintain their color and structure for extended periods when properly dried. [source]
Grain for Livestock Feed
CulinaryWhile not optimal for human consumption, the seeds can supplement livestock grain rations. The plant also provides good forage when immature. [source]
Bird Food and Shelter
WildlifeMature seeds provide nutrition for wild birds and domestic poultry. The tall plants offer excellent nesting and shelter habitat for ground-nesting birds. [source]
Harvest Tips
Harvest when panicles are fully mature and completely dry, typically in late summer to early fall (100-140 days after planting). Cut stems 6-8 inches below the panicle head using a sharp knife or machete. Gather panicles in bundles and hang in a dry, well-ventilated location for 2-4 weeks of additional drying. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture reabsorption. Panicles are ready for broom-making when fibers are completely stiff and brittle.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Broomcorn has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was one of the first domesticated sorghums, with evidence of use dating back to ancient Egypt and China.
- 🌱 The variety 'Durango Red' is named after the Mexican state of Durango, a historic center of broomcorn production and traditional broom-making crafts.
- 🌱 A single mature broomcorn plant can produce one large broom or multiple smaller brushes, making it an extremely efficient fiber crop for homestead use.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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