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Are Perennial Grains Coming Our Way?

Keeping the soil covered.

Researchers at the Land Institute, near Salina, Kansas, have worked since 2003 to develop a perennial grain crop that will replace some of the annual wheat grown around the world.  They have recently released Kernza®, an improved variety of intermediate wheatgrass that is being used, along with wheat flower, in baked goods, used alone in quick breads such as pancakes and muffins, or served as a pilaf. 

The advantage to planting a perennial crop is that it protects the soil from wind and water erosion, is more tolerant to drought, and requires less inputs of fuel, fertilizer and herbicides.