The world of millet varieties can be a bit confusing, especially when specific types are named for their purpose, like "Dove Proso." While the name suggests a connection, Dove Proso millet and Brown Top millet are in fact two entirely different species of millet. Understanding their distinct characteristics is key for anyone planting food plots, whether for mourning doves, other game birds, or as a forage crop. This comprehensive guide will break down the fundamental differences between these two widely used millet types.
Botanical and Genetic Differences
The most definitive way to distinguish between these two millets is by their scientific classification. They belong to separate genera within the grass family (Poaceae), which accounts for their different growth habits and physical traits.
- Dove Proso Millet: The scientific name is Panicum miliaceum. The "Dove" designation is not a species name but rather a marketing or common name that refers to a strain or variety of proso millet specifically selected for its appeal to mourning doves. It's an annual grass with a broader geographical distribution, traditionally found in more temperate regions.
- Brown Top Millet: The scientific name is Urochloa ramosa, also previously known as Brachiaria ramosa. It is also an annual, warm-season grass but is most often grown in the American South and Southeast. Its botanical heritage and regional adaptation distinguish it from proso millet.
Growth and Maturation Comparison
One of the most practical differences for farmers and wildlife managers is the timeline for growth and seed maturation. This is particularly important for planning staggered food availability.
- Maturity Timing: Brown Top millet has a shorter maturity cycle, typically maturing in about 60 to 70 days. In contrast, Dove Proso millet takes longer, usually around 70 to 80 days to reach maturity. This difference allows hunters to plant both varieties to provide a longer seed availability window for game birds.
- Seed Shattering: The manner in which the seeds drop is a significant distinction. Brown Top millet is known for its seeds maturing and shattering (dropping) more uniformly and quickly. This creates a concentrated, but shorter, food source. Dove Proso, however, exhibits a more gradual and random seed shattering, meaning the seeds drop over a longer period, providing a more extended feeding window for birds.
Table: Dove Proso vs. Brown Top Millet
| Feature | Dove Proso Millet | Brown Top Millet |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Panicum miliaceum | Urochloa ramosa (formerly Brachiaria ramosa) |
| Common Names | Broomcorn Millet, White Millet | Dixie Signalgrass, Korle (India) |
| Maturity Time | 70-80 days | 60-70 days |
| Seed Shattering | Gradual and random | Uniform and faster |
| Preferred By | Highly preferred by doves | Also attracts doves, but less preferred than Dove Proso in some studies |
| Best For | Extended dove feeding period, providing seed over time | Concentrated, shorter-term food source; rapid establishment |
| Region | Adapted to temperate regions | Most often grown in Southern/Southeastern US |
| Plant Appearance | Variable panicle shape (closed or wide-open); leaves can be hairless or sparsely hairy | Loosely clustered annual grass; leaves 4-14mm wide |
| Seed Color | Varies, can be white, cream, golden yellow, brown, or straw white | Typically tan |
Cultivation and Usage Considerations
The differences in maturity and shattering make a huge impact on how each millet is cultivated and used for wildlife management. Land managers often leverage these distinctions to their advantage.
- Staggered Planting: Due to the difference in maturity, a common strategy is to plant both varieties in the same field or in adjacent plots. By doing so, they create a food source that ripens at different times, extending the feeding season and keeping game birds in the area for a longer duration. Brown Top provides an initial seed drop, followed by Dove Proso, which continues to provide food later in the season as seeds drop more slowly.
- Drought Tolerance: Brown Top millet is generally considered more drought-tolerant than Dove Proso. This can make it a more reliable choice in drier climates or during periods of low rainfall.
- Forage vs. Seed: While both can be used for forage, Brown Top is also highly valued as a hay crop. Both are excellent seed sources, but Dove Proso is particularly noted for its high oil content, which is very attractive to doves.
Which Millet is Better for Doves?
This is a common question, and the answer depends on the desired outcome. A study of dove crop contents showed that Dove Proso millet was a significantly higher percentage of the diet by volume than Brown Top millet, suggesting doves prefer it. However, the same study noted that the use of Brown Top millet should not be discounted, and it remains a satisfactory dove food.
For a longer feeding season, a mix of the two varieties is ideal. If a landowner is looking for a quick-maturing, high-volume, but short-lived food source, Brown Top is the better choice for the initial phase of the season. For a more prolonged food availability, Dove Proso's slower shattering is a major advantage.
Conclusion: Not the Same, but Complementary
To summarize, no, Dove Proso millet is not the same as Brown Top millet; they are entirely distinct species with different botanical names (Panicum miliaceum vs. Urochloa ramosa). Their differences in maturity time, seed-shattering patterns, and growth habits make them useful for different purposes, particularly for game bird food plots. By understanding these key distinctions, land managers can make informed decisions to optimize their plantings for a prolonged and successful feeding season. They are not interchangeable but can be highly complementary when planted strategically.
For more detailed information on millet usage and nutrition, the Feedipedia article on Panicum miliaceum provides a wealth of information on proso millet's characteristics and uses, including as feed for livestock.
Key Takeaways
- Distinct Species: Dove Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum) and Brown Top millet (Urochloa ramosa) are two different species, not just variations of the same plant.
- Maturity Window: Brown Top millet matures faster (60-70 days) than Dove Proso (70-80 days), which allows for staggered seed availability for wildlife.
- Seed Shattering Pattern: Brown Top seeds shatter quickly and uniformly, whereas Dove Proso seeds shatter more gradually, providing a longer-lasting food source.
- Drought vs. Preference: Brown Top is often more drought-tolerant, while Dove Proso may be more preferred by mourning doves, according to some studies.
- Complementary Use: Planting both varieties together is a popular strategy to extend the feeding season for game birds.
- Regional Differences: Proso millet is more widespread, while Brown Top is most commonly grown in the South/Southeast.
- Seed Appearance: The two millets also differ in seed color and plant appearance, offering visual clues for identification.
- Nutritional Profile: Though both are nutritious, their precise nutritional profiles and specific benefits vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main purpose of planting Dove Proso and Brown Top millets? A: Both are primarily planted to attract and feed game birds, especially mourning doves, as well as for forage and cover crops.
Q: Why would someone plant both Dove Proso and Brown Top millet? A: Planting both extends the availability of food for doves. Brown Top matures earlier, providing an initial seed drop, while Dove Proso matures later and shatters more gradually, offering a food source over a longer period.
Q: Which millet is better for attracting doves? A: While both are effective, some crop analysis studies have suggested that Dove Proso millet is a more preferred food source by mourning doves. However, Brown Top is also a highly reliable choice.
Q: Do these millets require different planting methods? A: Generally, their seeding rates are similar, but their different regional adaptations and maturity times mean they require planning based on local climate and desired harvest timing.
Q: What is the difference in cost between Dove Proso and Brown Top? A: In some instances, Dove Proso seed may be more expensive than Brown Top millet seed, which can be a factor in deciding which to plant.
Q: Is Dove Proso millet the same as Broomcorn millet? A: Yes, Dove Proso is a type of Broomcorn millet, with the "Dove" name indicating its suitability and preference by mourning doves.
Q: How can I tell the difference between the plants in the field? A: Brown Top millet typically has a faster growth cycle and a more uniform seed drop. Its seeds are tan. Dove Proso has a longer growth cycle, and its seeds shatter more gradually, with seed colors varying from white to brown.
