How do you efficiently farm barley and flax in the Plains?

Farming barley and flax in the Plains biome of Valheim is essential for crafting high-tier gear and food. Both crops are exclusive to the Plains and require careful planning and preparation to farm efficiently. Barley is used to make bread and other advanced foods, while flax is crucial for crafting linen thread, which is needed for padded armor and other end-game items. To start farming, you must first secure a safe area in the Plains biome, as it is one of the most dangerous regions in the game.\n\nBefore venturing into the Plains, ensure you have the proper gear and tools. You will need a bronze or iron cultivator to plant barley and flax, as well as strong armor and weapons to defend yourself against Fulings, Deathsquitos, and other hostile creatures. It is highly recommended to bring a shield, a bow, and plenty of arrows for ranged combat. Additionally, consider building a small outpost or walled farm area to protect your crops from enemy attacks.\n\nTo begin farming, locate a Plains biome and scout for a flat area with minimal enemy presence. Clear the area of any threats and use your cultivator to till the soil. Barley and flax can only be planted in cultivated soil, so ensure you have enough space for your crops. Once the soil is prepared, plant the seeds by selecting them from your inventory and clicking on the tilled ground. Barley and flax take approximately 2 in-game days to grow, so plan accordingly.\n\nOne of the biggest challenges in farming barley and flax is protecting your crops from Fulings, who will destroy them if they wander too close. To mitigate this risk, build a perimeter wall around your farm using stone or wood. You can also place workbenches or campfires around the area to prevent enemy spawns. Another effective strategy is to build elevated platforms or watchtowers to spot incoming threats and deal with them before they reach your crops.\n\nHarvesting barley and flax is straightforward once the crops are fully grown. Simply approach the plants and interact with them to collect the resources. Each plant yields 2 barley or flax, which can then be processed further. Barley can be turned into barley flour at a windmill, while flax is spun into linen thread using a spinning wheel. Both of these crafting stations require advanced materials, so ensure you have the necessary resources and a secure base to operate them.\n\nFor efficient farming, consider using a portal network to quickly travel between your main base and your Plains farm. This will save time and reduce the risk of losing resources during transit. Additionally, always carry a backup set of tools and weapons in case of emergencies. If you are playing with friends, assign roles such as guarding the farm or harvesting crops to maximize efficiency.\n\nIn summary, farming barley and flax in the Plains requires preparation, protection, and patience. Secure a safe area, build defenses, and use advanced tools to cultivate and harvest your crops. By following these steps, you can efficiently gather the resources needed for end-game crafting and survival in Valheim.