The newcomer is pearl millet, an ancient tropical cereal grain that University of Nebraska plant breeders adapted for U.S. agriculture.
Pearl millet is grown for food in some countries but is a forage crop in America.
Pearl millet is adaptable, needs little water and keeps growing in heat that shuts down even sorghum. The resulting improved pearl millet typically yields 50-70 bushels per acre, comparable to early sorghum, and matures at about the same time. It produces multiple seed heads on strong stalks that withstand even snowstorms. Pearl millet won't replace corn or sorghum but Andrews thinks it would be a good choice for certain situations. In eastern Nebraska, it offers a late planting or replanting option and could follow wheat if harvest is complete by July 2.