Colorado Millet Frequently Asked Questions

We specialize in red & white proso millet, black oil sunflower, and sorghum (red milo), but also have experience with other crops such as Canadian Canary Seed, and flax seed.

We make it our business to build great relationships with farmers, partner elevators, wholesale Distributors, Traders and Brokers of Millet.

We offer on a (delivered) basis, the following freight options (based on equipment availability):

• Bulk hopper cars
• Bulk hopper bottom trailers
• Bulk 20 foot & 40 foot containers
• Bagged 20 foot & 40 foot containers
• Dry Vans
• Intermodal

While lead times can vary, in general we can ship within 2 to 3 weeks for approved clients.

We contract 99% pure birdseed quality millet, but will normally ship 99.5% or better.

Yes, is the short answer.  Depending on market conditions and availability, we will consider forward contracting up to three months in advance to approved buyers.

Please email your questions through the contact form below, and we will get you in touch with our grain buying team.

A conservative estimate places Colorado's contribution at around 30% to 50% of the total U.S. millet production.

The percentage of U.S. millet production in Colorado depends on factors such as:

1. Weather Conditions: Affects crop yields.
2. Farming Area: The amount of land dedicated to millet.
3. Agricultural Practices: Yield improvements through better farming techniques.
4. Market Forces: Demand and pricing influencing production decisions.
5. Government Policies: Subsidies or regulations impacting agriculture.
6. Technological Advances: Enhancements in farming technology.
7. Pest and Disease Management: Impact on crop health and yields.
8. Production in Other States: Relative contribution of Colorado compared to other states.
9. Economic Factors: Broader economic influences affecting agriculture.

Millet is an ideal grain for mushroom cultivation and can be used for making mushroom spawn or as a substrate supplement. Millet has a much lower endospore load than rye and wheat, making it less prone to contamination.

Millet is considered an excellent choice for mushroom cultivation for several reasons:

1. Small Grain Size: Millet's small grain size provides a larger surface area compared to larger grains. This increased surface area allows for more extensive mycelial growth, which is crucial for a successful mushroom crop. The mycelium, the vegetative part of the fungus, can more easily colonize and penetrate the small grains, leading to a more uniform and rapid growth.
2. Nutrient-Rich: Millet is a nutrient-rich grain that provides essential nutrients to the growing mycelium. It contains a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and other nutrients, making it an excellent food source for the mushrooms. This nutrient profile supports vigorous growth and can result in higher yields.
3. Good Water Absorption: Millet has an excellent capacity to absorb and retain water. Proper hydration is crucial in mushroom cultivation, as it influences mycelial growth and the overall health of the mushrooms. Millet's ability to maintain the right moisture levels can create an ideal environment for mushroom development.
4. Less Prone to Contamination: Due to its small size and structure, millet is less prone to bacterial and mold contamination compared to larger grains. This is vital in mushroom cultivation, where contamination can quickly ruin an entire batch. The lower contamination risk can lead to more successful and consistent yields.
5. Versatility and Mixability: Millet can be easily mixed with other substrates or supplements to create a more complex and nutritionally balanced growing medium. This versatility allows cultivators to tailor their substrate mixes to the specific needs of different mushroom species.
6. Faster Colonization Times: Due to the increased surface area and excellent nutrient profile, millet can lead to faster colonization times. This means that the time from inoculation to fruiting can be shorter, allowing for quicker crop turnover.
7. Environmental Sustainability: Millet is often praised for its environmental sustainability. It requires less water and fewer inputs to grow compared to other grains, making it a more eco-friendly choice for cultivators who are mindful of their environmental impact.