How to Grow Broom Corn

Broom corn is not really a corn at all. Broom corn is more of a tall grass that forms a majestic fan shaped seed head instead of ears of corn. Broom corn is used in the making of brooms. A natural bristled broom is made from the straw part of the broom corn plant. Broom corn is also used in decorative bouquets that you use to brighten a home. Broom corn is an ornamental plant that can also be made into a useful item like a broom. Crafters love broom corn since it is a multi purpose plant that can be used in many different types of crafts. Wreaths, bouquets, brooms, wall hangings and other craft bits and pieces can use broom corn. Broom corn has colorful seeds and strong stems that make it easy to use in craft projects.

Broom corn is a hardy plant that is easy to grow. Broom corn grows to be eight to twelve feet high so it should be planted in an area that can allow for it's height. Broom corn plants are an annual plant which means it will not come back next year unless you plant it again. Broom corn likes to grow in full sun so choose a sunny location for broom corn. You can buy broom corn seeds in most places that sell seeds like a garden center.

Plant broom corn in a well worked up garden after all danger of frost has past. Plant broom corn seeds in rows about two feet apart. Plant the broom corn seeds in the rows about four inches apart at a depth of about one inch. Broom corn takes about seven to ten cays to germinate. Broom corn will take about 110 days to mature. Broom corn favors hot weather with a long growing season.

Broom corn is ready to harvest when the plant turns from a yellow color to a green color before the seeds completely mature. When you harvest broom corn you can cut it off with a long stem and hang the plant upside down to dry. After the broom corn plant has dried you will have a straight plant if you let it dry up side down. When the broom corn is dry it is ready to use for making brooms or other craft projects. Broom corn is a beautiful useful plant that can last for years after harvest.