Grains
About Grains
Grains are the seeds of various grasses. Oats, barley, wheat, corn, rye, buckwheat, and rice are a few of the many types of grains used by humans around the world. Grains also are used for many different purposes. They can be used for human consumption such as making bread and beverages or cooking and eating directly. Humans also use grains to feed animals as they are rich in starches, fibers, vitamins, and minerals. Different kinds of grains are used in the cosmetic industry, to make fuel, or cooking oils.
Historically, these seeds have been a popular food source in many civilizations as they are compact, can be dried, store well, and are easy to transport. Grains also grow in many climates. Grains are usually planted in the spring after frost and harvested in early summer or fall after the grasses die and dry out. Some grains can be planted twice a year and go dormant over the winter.
Fun Facts
- New York State farmers grow barley, corn, malting barley, oats, soybean, and wheat on a large scale. Many more grains are grown on small farms or home gardens.