Broomcorn
Harvesting Process
Broomcorn is a type of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)grown for its tassels, or seed heads, which are used to make natural brooms. An annual plant, broomcorn is planted in the spring and harvested in the fall.
Each year, Husk Brooms partners with local Pittsburgh area farmers to help grow broomcorn domestically and sustainably.
In 2025 our local farmers were: Soil Sisters and Tiny Seed Farm !
Broomcorn grows tall stalks and is best planted in rows. It does not produce fruit, but rather sends all its energy to the seeded tassel head at the top. The tassel heads will start to show midway through the growing cycle and then take off quickly! A telling sign when it’s time to harvest is when the weight of the seeded tassels start to drape or curve down. I like to harvest later in the year to make sure the tassel length grew as long as possible.
After the fresh broomcorn is cut, its organized by how long the tassel lengths grew (S, M, L, XL). Once grouped by size, they are bundled together with twine and hung upside from the shed to dry for a couple weeks. The weight of the seeds help straighten the tassels.
When it’s time to harvest, the stalks are cut roughly 9” below the tassel head. Broomcorn naturally grows “knuckles” along the stalk (like bamboo) and the top knuckle closest to the tassel head (usually 9” or so) can easily snap, separating the tassel head from the stalk making the harvesting process quicker.
After two weeks and when the fiber is dry, the seeds can be brushed off the tassel heads using a metal comb.
Seeds can be saved and planted for next year’s growing season. It's recommended to store seeds in a dry, cool environment such as a brown paper bag in the basement.
After the seeds are removed, broomcorn can be used for crafting!