Origin, History, Morphology, Production, Improvement, and Utilization of Broomcorn [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] in Serbia

Abstract

Broomcorn in South Eastern Europe (SEE) is part of an important niche market of natural, renewable brooms made from the panicles of sorghum. This article is a summary of almost 60 years of experiences concerning broomcorn research, development, and production in SEE, and more specifically in Serbia. The botanical classification, origin, history, morphology, production, cultivar choice, certified seed, improvement, and utilization of broomcorn are discussed. Its improvement through breeding and production research includes various panicle quality traits, like optimization of fiber length, improving fiber fineness and appearance, elimination of undesirable red discoloration, and adapting the crop to mechanical harvest. Broomcorn could become a suitable feed, energy, or fiber crop if improvements in seed quality, as well as stalk biomass, juiciness, and sweetness are undertaken. Broomcorns will continue to play an important role in Serbian agriculture and work will continue to breed for improvements of the crop to benefit broomcorn farmers throughout Europe and the world.