Hordeum vulgare
Hordeum vulgare
Barley
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Common Names
BarleyCommon barley
Context
nativeRegion
Southwest Asia, widely cultivated globally.
usdaZones
Grown as an annual crop in all USDA zones.
companionPlants
Peas, Vetch, Clover, Oats
culturalUses
Major cereal crop; source of grain for food, animal feed, brewing (beer, whisky), and health foods.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun is ideal for optimal growth and grain production.
WateringRequires moderate watering; prefers consistent soil moisture but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
SoilPrefers well-drained, fertile loam with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.0–7.5).
FertilizerResponds well to balanced fertilizers, particularly those high in nitrogen for vegetative growth.
HumidityTolerates a range of humidity levels; prefers dry to moderately humid conditions.
TemperatureGrows best in cool climates; optimal temperature range is 12–18°C (54–64°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitAnnual grass, typically upright and forming loose tufts.
Mature SizeHeight 0.6–1.2 meters (2–4 ft).
Growth RateFast-growing; matures in approximately 90–120 days after sowing.
BloomingProduces inflorescences called spikes, usually in late spring to summer.
DormancyAnnual; dies back completely after seed maturation.
Propagation
MethodsSeed
DifficultyVery easy; direct sowing is standard practice.
Best SeasonEarly spring in temperate zones or late autumn in mild climates.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningNot required; plants are harvested when mature.
RepottingNot applicable for typical cultivation.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to fungal diseases (e.g., powdery mildew, rusts) and some insect pests (e.g., aphids).
ToxicityNot toxic to humans or pets; grains are edible.
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