Medieval Farming, Millet

The name "millet" has been given to various grasses with small edible seeds which are generally borne on short (0.3 to 1.2 metres), slim stalks.

Pearl millet is the exception to this description since its stalks are over twice as long (1.5 to 3 metres) and thicker.

Although the millets have several common morphological traits the term millet is not a strict classification.

The crop can be planted on dry seedbeds before the onset of the rains.

Rigorous seedbed preparations are not necessary. In sandy soils in Africa, the ground is dug over with a hoe and weeded prior to planting.

Warm soils are required since high temperatures encourage rapid germination. However, prolonged droughts at sowing and during early seedling stage greatly hinder growth.

Farming Slaves, Weeding, Ploughing, Seeds, Irrigation, Sickles, Threshing, Wheat, Barley, Millet, Oats, Rye, Olive Trees, Grapevines