For conventional production, about 40 to 80 pounds of nitrogen fertilizer per acre should be applied on most Indiana soils. The lower amount is appropriate if the millet follows a legume such as soybeans. Since nitrogen needs are modest, fertilizer nitrogen can be applied sidedress rather than preplant if appropriate. Nitrogen needs can certainly be met from organic sources, such as animal manure or a leguminous cover crop. Phosphorous and potassium needs of pearl millet have not been well studied, but again the rule of thumb is to use rates recommended by a soil test lab for sorghum.
Phosphorous response is likely to improved if the P is banded near the seed.
Peak and 2,4-D are labeled for broadleaf control with pearl millet, while Banvel can be used to control some grasses, though it is still primarily a broadleaf herbicide. There is some question as to whether these labels apply only to forage millet, or also cover grain type millet. Check with a company representative to get the latest label information. Since pearl millet is planted relatively late, two preplant tillage operations are recommended, first to stimulate germination of weed seeds, then, several days later, to kill weed seedlings prior to planting. If planted in wide rows, row cultivation for weed control should be planned, especially if herbicide control is ineffective.