How does weather affect crop growth in Valheim?

Weather plays a significant role in crop growth in Valheim, directly impacting your farming efforts. Crops such as carrots, turnips, barley, and flax require specific conditions to grow properly. Rain is the most beneficial weather condition for crops, as it accelerates their growth. When it rains, crops grow faster, reducing the time needed for them to reach maturity. However, crops do not grow at all during storms or in certain biomes like the Mountains or Plains, where harsh weather conditions prevail.\n\nTo start farming, you need to craft a Cultivator, which requires 5 Core Wood and 5 Bronze. Core Wood is obtained from Pine trees in the Black Forest biome, while Bronze is crafted by combining Copper and Tin at a Forge. Once you have the Cultivator, you can till the soil and plant seeds. Seeds are obtained by foraging or defeating enemies, such as carrot seeds from the Black Forest or turnip seeds in the Swamp biome. Barley and flax seeds are exclusive to the Plains biome and can only be grown there.\n\nRain is the most favorable weather for farming, as it provides a natural watering effect. When it rains, crops grow approximately 20% faster compared to dry weather. This means that a carrot, which normally takes about 2 in-game days to grow, will mature in just over 1.5 days during rain. However, crops will still grow in dry weather, albeit at a slower pace. It’s important to note that crops do not require manual watering, so you don’t need to worry about carrying water or building irrigation systems.\n\nStorms, on the other hand, can be detrimental to farming. During a storm, crops stop growing entirely, and the strong winds can make it difficult to tend to your fields. Additionally, storms can damage structures like fences or walls, which may expose your crops to wildlife or enemies. To mitigate this, consider building a roofed area or enclosing your farm with sturdy walls to protect it from storms and other environmental hazards.\n\nBiome selection is also crucial for successful farming. The Meadows biome is the most beginner-friendly location for farming, as it has mild weather and fewer hostile creatures. The Plains biome is ideal for growing barley and flax, but it is also home to dangerous enemies like Fulings and Deathsquitos. To farm safely in the Plains, build a fortified base with walls and defensive structures. Avoid farming in the Mountains or Swamp biomes, as their extreme weather and hostile environments make crop growth nearly impossible.\n\nFor new players, it’s recommended to start small and focus on growing carrots and turnips in the Meadows biome. These crops are essential for crafting stamina-boosting foods like Carrot Soup and Turnip Stew, which are vital for exploration and combat. As you progress, expand your farming operations to include barley and flax in the Plains biome, as these are used to craft advanced items like Linen Thread and Black Metal weapons.\n\nPractical tips for farming in Valheim include spacing your crops properly to avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent some plants from growing. Use fences or walls to protect your farm from wildlife and enemies, especially in more dangerous biomes. Finally, always keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan your farming activities accordingly. By understanding how weather affects crop growth and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure a steady supply of food and resources for your Viking adventures.