Seed Treatment
• Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hrs to soften seed coat
• Advanced only: GA3 (gibberellic acid) at 250–500 ppm may improve germination, but use with caution — improper use can damage seeds
When to Start Indoors
• Start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost
• Best sown in early spring (March–April)
• Only sow outdoors in warm climates with a long frost-free season
Germination Conditions
• Time: 5 to 20 days
• Optimum Temp: 25–30°C (77–86°F)
• Light: Not required to germinate (dark germinator)
• After sprouting: Needs 12–16 hrs/day light — use grow lights if indoors
• Depth: Sow ¼–½ inch (0.5–1.5 cm) deep in moist seed-starting mix
Moisture
• Keep medium moist, not soggy
• Use humidity dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture during germination
Post-Germination Care
• Remove dome after sprouting
• Keep seedlings under strong light 12–16 hrs/day
• Thin to 1 plant per cell or pot
• Harden off before transplanting when temps are stable above 15°C (59°F)
Growing Tips
• Full sun (6–8+ hrs/day)
• Tolerates drought once established
• Space plants 20–30 cm (8–12 in) apart
• Harvest seeds when seed heads turn golden and dry
A resilient and versatile grass that thrives in tough conditions and adds beauty or bounty to your garden!
Additional Notes
- Germination may be slow if temperatures dip below 20°C (68°F)
- Setaria italica is a fast-growing annual grain grass used for animal feed, birdseed, ornamental use, or ancient grains for culinary purposes.
- Produces plume-like seed heads that add height and texture to ornamental borders or dried arrangements.
- Can grow 2–5 feet tall, depending on conditions.
- Suitable for warm, dry climates, and low-input sustainable gardens.
- Harvest seed heads when fully mature and dry for seed saving or use.
A resilient and versatile grass that thrives in tough conditions and adds beauty or bounty to your garden!