How can you avoid wasting time while farming barley and flax?

Farming barley and flax efficiently in Valheim is crucial for speedrunning, as these crops are essential for crafting high-tier gear and food. Both barley and flax can only be grown in the Plains biome, so you must first establish a base or outpost there. The Plains biome is dangerous, so ensure you have adequate gear, such as padded armor and a black metal weapon, to handle Fulings and Deathsquitos. Once you’ve secured a safe farming area, focus on optimizing your farming process to save time.\n\nTo begin, you’ll need a cultivator, which is crafted using bronze and core wood. Use the cultivator to prepare the soil for planting. Barley and flax require a lot of space, so clear a large area of land and remove any rocks or debris that could obstruct growth. Plant the crops in rows with enough space between them to allow for easy harvesting. Avoid planting too close to structures or uneven terrain, as this can reduce yield or prevent growth entirely.\n\nOne of the most time-saving strategies is to use the Eikthyr power, which reduces stamina consumption when running. This allows you to sprint across your farm quickly while planting or harvesting. Additionally, always carry a stack of stamina-boosting food, such as carrot soup or turnip stew, to maintain your stamina during long farming sessions. Stamina management is key to avoiding wasted time.\n\nHarvesting efficiently is just as important as planting. Use the Atgeir’s secondary attack (spin attack) to harvest multiple crops at once. This weapon can clear a large area of barley or flax in seconds, significantly reducing the time spent harvesting. Alternatively, if you don’t have an Atgeir, use a bronze or iron scythe, which is specifically designed for harvesting crops. Always harvest during the day to avoid the increased danger of nighttime raids.\n\nTo maximize your yield, replant immediately after harvesting. Keep a stack of barley and flax seeds in your inventory to avoid running back and forth to storage. If you’re low on seeds, prioritize replanting over using the crops for crafting. Over time, your seed stockpile will grow, allowing you to expand your farm and increase production. This cycle of planting and harvesting ensures a steady supply of resources without unnecessary downtime.\n\nAnother common challenge is protecting your farm from enemy raids. Fulings and Lox can destroy your crops if they wander into your farming area. To prevent this, build a perimeter wall around your farm using stone or wood. Place workbenches or campfires around the perimeter to prevent enemy spawns. If you’re short on resources, dig a trench around your farm to create a natural barrier. This will keep your crops safe while you focus on farming.\n\nFinally, consider automating part of the process by using mods or community tools if you’re open to non-vanilla solutions. However, for a pure speedrunning experience, stick to the in-game mechanics and focus on optimizing your movements and stamina usage. With these strategies, you can farm barley and flax efficiently, saving valuable time for other speedrunning objectives.\n\nIn summary, efficient farming in Valheim requires preparation, stamina management, and strategic harvesting. By securing a safe Plains biome base, using the right tools, and protecting your crops, you can minimize wasted time and maximize your resource output. These tips will help both new players and experienced Vikings streamline their farming process and stay ahead in their speedrunning journey.