Nigerseed

The nigerseed is an annual plant. It resembles a Jerusalem artichoke in appearance. The plant is 1.4 m high. It is grown in India, Africa, and Southeast Asia primarily as an oil crop. A very heat-loving plant. Drought-resistant. Development is modest in dense and overly moist soil. As a cover crop, it is suitable for use between cruciferous and legume crops, as it belongs to a different family from them. It improves soil health and makes phosphorus available to subsequent crops. Plow into the soil before flowering. As a cover crop, nigerseed is mainly grown in mixtures. It is a good honey plant. The seeds are also used as bird food, and it is said to be a favorite of finches (especially greenfinches).