How long does it take for crops like barley and flax to grow in Valheim?

In Valheim, crops like barley and flax are essential for crafting advanced items and food, but they require specific conditions to grow. Both barley and flax can only be cultivated in the Plains biome, as they do not grow in other biomes like the Meadows or Black Forest. To start farming these crops, you must first acquire seeds by defeating Fuling enemies or looting Fuling villages in the Plains. Once you have seeds, you can plant them using a Cultivator, which is crafted using Bronze at a Forge.\n\nBarley and flax take approximately 2 in-game days to fully grow. Each in-game day lasts about 21 minutes in real time, so the total growth time is roughly 42 minutes. However, this time can vary slightly depending on the time of day you plant the seeds. Crops grow during the day and pause their growth at night, so planting early in the morning maximizes growth efficiency. To ensure a steady supply, plant your seeds in a large, flat area within the Plains biome, as uneven terrain can prevent crops from growing properly.\n\nOne common challenge is protecting your crops from enemies. Fulings and Deathsquitos in the Plains can destroy your plants if they wander too close. To mitigate this, build a perimeter fence or wall around your farm using Wood or Stone. Additionally, placing Workbenches or other player-made structures nearby can prevent enemy spawns in the area. For extra security, consider building a small outpost with defensive structures like spike walls or a moat.\n\nAnother important mechanic is crop rotation. Unlike carrots and turnips, barley and flax do not produce seeds when harvested. This means you must continuously gather new seeds from the Plains biome to replant your crops. To optimize your farming, dedicate a portion of your harvest to replanting while using the rest for crafting or cooking. For example, barley is used to make flour at a Windmill, which is then used to craft bread or other high-tier foods.\n\nFor new players, it’s crucial to prepare before venturing into the Plains biome. Ensure you have strong armor, weapons, and food buffs to survive encounters with Fulings and other threats. Experienced Vikings can streamline their farming process by creating multiple Windmills and Fermenters to process barley and flax into valuable resources like Linen Thread and food items.\n\nPractical tips for farming barley and flax include planting in rows for easier harvesting, using the Hoe to level the ground before planting, and keeping a stockpile of seeds for emergencies. Additionally, consider building a portal near your farm to quickly transport resources back to your main base. By following these steps and understanding the mechanics, you can efficiently grow barley and flax to support your Viking adventures in Valheim.