Buckwheat Seeds (Fagopyrum esculentum)
Summer annual which
can be used as a green manure crop. An early maturing wheat suitable for
almost any type soil. Seeds remain on stalk after ripening, providing
food over extended period of time. Buckwheat has a short growing season,
maturing in 10 to 12 weeks. It is quickly killed by frost. Buckwheat is
a short-season cash crop with properties that can make it fit specific
situations on your farm. While it is unlikely to be your main crop, it
can be a worthwhile part of your overall farm plan.
Reasons For growing buckwheat
- Fits into rotations at a time when fields might otherwise be idle.
- Can be grown as a catch crop where another crop failed.
- Inexpensive to grow because it requires no pesticides and little fertilizer.
- Can be grown with equipment available on most farms.
- Requires little attention during the growing season.
- Mellows the soil and suppresses some weeds.
- Easily raised Organically, at a premium price.
