Ever thought about growing your own oats?
It’s easier than you think!
With the right tactics, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown oats.
In this article, we’ll share 7 simple steps to get you started.
Ready to harvest your own oats?
Let’s go!
Choose the Right Variety of Oats
First things first, you need to pick the right type of oats. There are a few varieties out there, but hull-less oats are perfect for home gardening.
They’re easier to process after harvesting. You can find oat seeds at your local gardening store or online.
Just make sure to choose ones suitable for your climate. Fun fact: hull-less oats are also called “naked” oats because they shed their hulls during harvesting!
Find a Sunny Spot
Your oats will need plenty of sunlight to grow well. Find a spacious spot in your yard or garden that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
If you don’t have outdoor space, you can use large pots or containers on a sunny balcony. Just make sure the location has good drainage, as oat plants don’t like their roots to stay soggy.
Prepare the Soil
Oats love nutrient-rich soil. Before planting, mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
The soil should be loose and well-draining to encourage healthy root development. If you’re planting in containers, use high-quality potting soil.
Test the soil pH; oats prefer it to be between 6.0 and 7.0. Don’t stress too much—oats are pretty resilient!
Sow the Seeds
Sow oat seeds directly into the soil about 6 inches apart. If you’re planting in rows, space the rows around a foot apart.
Press the seeds lightly into the soil and cover with a thin layer of dirt, about an inch deep. Water the area gently to avoid washing the seeds away.
Early spring is the best time to plant since oats thrive in cool weather.
Water and Weed Regularly
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the oats regularly, especially during dry spells.
Be on the lookout for weeds, as they can steal nutrients from your oat plants. Regularly check your oat patch and pull out any unwanted plants.
Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Harvesting Time
Your oats will be ready to harvest in about 6-9 months. The best way to tell is by looking at the seeds; they should be brown and feel hard to the touch.
To harvest, simply cut the stems and bundle them together to dry for a week or two. You can then thresh the bundles to separate the oats from the straw.
Congrats, you’re officially an oat farmer!
Store Your Oats
Once harvested and cleaned, store your oats in a cool, dry place. Use airtight containers to keep out moisture and pests.
Your homegrown oats can last for several months if stored properly. You can use them to make fresh oatmeal, add them to smoothies, or even bake oat cookies.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor!