# How to Grow Niger Seed
Niger or ramtilla (Guizotia abyssinica) is an erect, annual, herbaceous crop cultivated for its edible seeds, which are often used to feed birds. Grown extensively in India and Ethiopia, Niger plants require warm temperatures, such as those found in the Southern United States. Cultivating a single Niger crop takes approximately three to four months from planting to harvest, according to the Purdue University Center for New Crops.
Things You'll Need
- Niger seed (5 to 7 lbs. per acre)
- Peat moss
- Well-rotted compost
- Perlite
- Rake or tiller
- Garden hose
- Sickle or pruning shears
- Twine
- Broom
Instructions
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1
Select a full-sun location receiving direct sunlight for no less than six hours each day. Choose a site near at least one beehive. Niger plants are not self-pollinating and are pollinated by bees that are attracted to their yellow blossoms.
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2
Work 3 inches of peat moss, 3 inches of well-rotted compost and 1 inch of perlite into the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. Niger plants perform best in rich, well-draining soil.
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3
Scatter the Niger seed evenly over the prepared soil's surface at a rate of 5 to 7 lbs. per acre. Rake or till the seed into the soil to a depth of a ½ inch.
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4
Watering the Niger seeds with ¾ inch of water after planting moistens the soil to a depth of at least 3 inches. Delicate Niger seedlings should emerge within three to five days. Irrigate Niger plants once per week, providing up to 1 inch of water each time.
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Harvest the plants as soon as the yellow flowers wither. Cut the Niger plants down to 3 to 4 inches above the surface of the soil with a sickle or pair of pruning shears. Tie the plants in bundles and dry them in the sun for one to two weeks.
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