Dry Matter and Nutrient Accumulation and Partitioning by Proso Millet

Abstract Information on dry matter accumulation and nutrient uptake pattern for proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) is very limited. Therefore, a project was initiated to measure dry matter accumulation and N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu uptakes in whole plants, stalks, leaves and heads of proso millet during the growing season. The two cultivars, Cope and Dawn, were field grown on an Aridic Argiustoll that had optimum nutrient and water availability. Plant samples were collected at weekly intervals starting 30 d after planting, and continuing throughout the growing season. Nutrient concentrations, dry matter accumulation, and mineral uptakes were very similar for both varieties. Whole plant concentrations of most nutrients decreased from emergence to maturity, except for Ca, Mg, and Mn which increase with time. From anthesis to maturity, dry matter accumulated rapidly at a rate of 0.5 Mg/ha/d, tripling during this period. Heads at maturity accounted for 55% of the total plant dry matter, which is higher than for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) or grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.). Proso millet accumulated N and P during heading like grain sorghum, which is more efficient than corn (Zea mays L.). Dry matter accumulation and nutrient uptake patterns are illustrated during the life cycle of this plant.