How do you efficiently farm Tar in the Plains?

Farming Tar in the Plains biome of Valheim is a crucial task for advanced players, as Tar is a valuable resource used in crafting Darkwood building pieces and other late-game items. Tar is found in Tar Pits, which are large, bubbling pools scattered across the Plains. These pits are guarded by Growths, dangerous enemies that can deal significant damage if not handled carefully. To efficiently farm Tar, you need to prepare adequately and understand the mechanics of the Plains biome.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before venturing into the Plains. Wear high-tier armor like Padded Armor or Wolf Armor, and bring a strong weapon such as a Blackmetal Sword or Frostner. A Draugr Fang bow with Needle or Poison arrows is also highly recommended for dealing with Growths from a distance. Additionally, bring a shield to block their ranged attacks. Stamina management is critical, so consume foods like Serpent Stew, Blood Pudding, and Lox Meat Pie to maximize your health and stamina pools.\n\nLocating Tar Pits is the next step. These pits are easily identifiable by their dark, bubbling appearance and the presence of Growths nearby. Use a Longship or Karve to explore the Plains coastline, as Tar Pits are often found near water. Once you locate a pit, clear the area of other threats like Fulings or Loxes before engaging the Growths. Growths are slow but deal heavy damage, so keep your distance and use ranged attacks to eliminate them safely.\n\nAfter clearing the area, you can begin farming Tar. Tar is extracted from Tar Pits using a tool called the Cultivator. However, you cannot directly farm Tar with the Cultivator. Instead, you must dig a trench around the Tar Pit using a Pickaxe to drain the Tar into a collection area. Dig a shallow trench leading away from the pit, ensuring it slopes downward to allow the Tar to flow. Once the Tar is drained, it will solidify into Tar Balls, which can be collected and processed into Tar at a Smelter.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with respawning Growths. Growths will respawn after a short time, so it’s essential to work quickly and efficiently. Bring a friend or two to help guard the area while you dig and collect Tar. Alternatively, you can build a small outpost nearby with walls and a portal to retreat if things get too dangerous. This also allows you to return quickly if you need to farm more Tar later.\n\nFinally, always be mindful of your surroundings. The Plains biome is one of the most dangerous areas in Valheim, with threats like Deathsquitos and Fuling Berserkers lurking nearby. Stay alert, and don’t overextend yourself. With proper preparation and strategy, farming Tar can become a manageable and rewarding task, providing you with the resources needed to craft advanced building materials and gear.\n\nPractical Tip: If you’re struggling with Growths, use the terrain to your advantage. Lure them into narrow spaces or behind obstacles to limit their movement and make them easier to defeat. Additionally, consider bringing a stack of Healing Meads and Stamina Meads to sustain yourself during prolonged battles.