War on Weeds — Weeds are Everybody’s Problem

Milium (Spring Millet)

Milium (Milium vernale) is a winter annual grass that is native to southern Europe and western Asia. It was most likely introduced to the U.S. as a contaminate in seed. It is best known for invading winter wheat, but it can also inhabit other cultivated fields, pastures and rangelands. While its impact on the U.S. is limited, it can be a significant threat in parts of Idaho.

Millium can grow up to 2.5 feet tall. It has flat leaves that are about 1/4 inch wide by 4 inches long. Milium lacks auricles and it has 1/4-inch-long membranous ligules. When stands of Milium are dense, stems are spindly, without surrounding vegetation they would fall. It has open panicles that can be up to 8 inches long. Spikelets are awnless, 1/8 inch long, and are found on the tip of each panicle branch. Shiny hard seeds can be dispersed by wind, water and farm equipment. Seed is often spread by equipment during harvest.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) options

• Prevention — Learn to identify this plant. Be sure to clean equipment before changing fields. Always plant clean seed.
• Mechanical — Spring tillage can effectively control Milium.
• Cultural — Crop rotation is good practice; it may help break the life cycle of this weed and provide the opportunity to use other control methods.
• Chemical — Consult with your local Extension educator about chemical control options for this weed.

Idaho is a wonderful place with awesome natural resources, landscapes, agriculture and recreational opportunities. Weeds threaten all the things that we love about Idaho. To detect, contain and control weeds in Idaho we have declared “War on Weeds.” These short articles are designed to give a brief description of each species, an explanation about why it’s a problem, insights into identification and Integrated Pest Management control options. — Justin Hatch

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• Milium, 5-6