Have you ever wondered what happens on a farm throughout the year? From planting seeds in spring to harvesting golden fields in late summer, an arable farm is a hive of activity.
In response to the launch of our Farming Through the Seasons video, primary-aged pupils asked us some fantastic questions about farming, soil, and nature - questions that highlighted their curiosity about how crops grow and how farmers care for the environment.
Take a look at their questions, and our answers, below!
What is an ‘arable’ farm?
An arable farm is a type of farm where crops are grown instead of raising animals. Farmers on arable farms grow things like wheat, barley, and oats. These crops are used to make food for people and animals.
What are the nutrients in soil?
Soil is like food for plants! It has important nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that help plants grow strong. In autumn, leaves and plants that fall to the ground break down and give the soil more nutrients. Farmers also help by adding fertilizers or planting special crops like clover or grasses to keep the soil healthy.
How does the farmer look after everything?
Farmers work hard to take care of their crops and land. They check the soil, water the plants, and pick the crops at the right time. To get ready for the next year, farmers might plant winter crops, rest the soil, or prepare it for planting again. This keeps the farm healthy and growing.
How does a plant make lots of seeds?
Plants use sunlight to make energy, which helps them grow flowers and seeds. As they grow, plants use this energy to make seeds so they can grow new plants. These seeds also become food for people and animals.
Why do crops change from green to gold?
When crops, like wheat, turn from green to gold, it means they’re ready to harvest! The green colour fades because the plant is finishing its growing process. This is a sign that the seeds or grains are ready to be picked and used.
How do farmers look after nature on the farm?
Farmers care for nature by planting hedges, leaving areas for bees and butterflies, and growing different crops to keep the soil healthy. Some farmers don’t dig the soil to keep it solid, so it doesn’t get washed away by the rain. Other farmers plant what are called ‘cover crops’ to protect the ground in winter. Cover crops are special plants, like clover and grass that help keep it healthy and add nutrients. These actions help nature and farming work together.
Each season on an arable farm is important, from planting in spring to harvesting in late summer and preparing for starting again in autumn. Farmers work hard to get everything just right, from growing the crops to caring for the soil and nature.
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