The Farmer Reveals the Mysterious Purple Crop Planted on His Field
Farmer Trevor Edgley, who manages an agricultural company in the English town of Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, found himself unable to plant wheat due to constantly wet fields in the spring, reported the BBC.
He announced on social media that instead of wheat, he planted a special seed mixture called NUM3. The crops that sprout from this mixture promote organic farming and are a popular choice among environmentally conscious consumers.
Trevor Edgley
British Broadcasting Corporation
The Benefits of Crop Rotation
Crop rotation is essential for sustainable agriculture, as it helps improve soil health and mitigate the impact of extreme weather conditions. The government incentivizes farmers to sow NUM3 by providing them with £593 per hectare annually. This helps cover the costs of seeds, labor, and planting the crop, making it a worthwhile investment for both the farmers and the environment.
The Farmer’s New Crop
A farmer decided to try something new this year and planted a special mix of seeds on his field. Instead of the usual wheat and barley, he opted for a mix that was not only more profitable but also better for the environment.
Social Media Mystery
To create some buzz around his new crop, the farmer posted pictures on social media and asked users to guess which purple crop he was growing. Many thought it was flaxseed, quinoa, or lavender.
After much speculation, the farmer revealed the secret behind his purple crop. The mix of seeds, known as NUM3, consisted of 50% fava beans, 15% flaxseed, 15% clover, 15% alfalfa, and 5% phacelia, which gave the vibrant purple color. This unique mix was carefully designed to not only be profitable but also beneficial for the environment.
Encouraging Biodiversity in Agricultural Lands
One of the main goals of modern agriculture is to promote the presence of more insects and other pollinators, as well as birds, in agricultural lands. The aim is to enrich the soil and improve its health, ultimately leading to better crop yields.
Preserving Wheat Seeds for Future Generations
Eddie mentioned that he has stored the wheat seeds in the warehouse, and he will conduct a germination test later this year. He is keeping his fingers crossed that they will be viable for planting next year.
