Organic Foxtail Millet

Foxtail Millet is an ancient crop that has been growing for over 8000 years on the banks of the Yellow River in China. It is also known as dwarf setaria, German Millet, or green foxtail.

In India, organic Foxtail millet is considered a staple diet, especially in the arid regions. Ancient Tamil texts associate foxtail millet with Lord Kartikeya. They are widely grown in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra and are natively called Korralu, Kang, and Kakum.

Foxtail Millet grains are small and crispy and vary from light yellow to brown. They have a sweet and nutty flavor to it. They can be ground and turned into flour to make roti or cakes. You can also prepare them as rice or eat them as the delicious sweet treat- Kheer.

Climate: Korralu can be grown in temperate and tropical areas with moderate rainfall. 

Soil: Korralu requires fertile soil with an efficient irrigation system. It is best to grow them on sandy and heavy clay soils.

Sowing: Foxtail Millet or Korralu is primarily a rain-fed crop but is grown throughout different seasons in different parts of the country. The seeds are planted 2-3 cm deep at a distance of 8-10 cm between two plants. 

Harvesting: It takes Korallu 80-90 days to be ready for harvesting. It can be harvested by using a sickle and cutting the crop from the ground or just the ears heads once they dry. 

Drying: After harvesting, the grains should be kept in the sun for 2-3 days to lower moisture content.

Foxtail Millet should be stored in an airtight and secure container and placed in a cool and dark area to avoid any fungal contact or formation of moisture.