KERNZA MIGHT BE A CLIMATE SUPERHERO

A month ago, I read about Kernza in a book about climate changes... When I read about it, I began wondering how I did not know enough about Kernza to even recognize its name.

There are so many reasons to learn more about Kernza.

Kernza is a powerful PERENNIAL GRAIN.   It grows year after year without replacing.

For starters, Kernza is classified as a powerful PERENNIAL GRAIN. Unlike traditional annual grains that require replanting each year, Kernza has the remarkable ability to grow year after year without the need for replanting. This characteristic not only simplifies agricultural practices but also contributes to sustainability in farming.

It grows crazy deep roots- up to 10 feet! The roots help prevent erosion, trap carbon, and builds healthy soil and it grows year after year without replacing. These deep roots play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, Kernza anchors the soil firmly in place, by reducing the loss of topsoil that can occur due to wind and water runoff. Kernza roots trap carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The carbon captured in the soil can help combat the greenhouse effect, offering a natural solution to one of the most critical challenges of our time.

Additionally, Kernza promotes the development of healthy soil. The deep roots not only enhance soil structure but also improve its nutrient content. As the roots grow and die, they contribute organic matter to the soil, fostering a rich ecosystem that supports beneficial microorganisms. This leads to improved soil fertility, which is essential for growing other crops in a sustainable manner.

Recently, I mentioned my newfound interest in Kernza to a friend, and to my surprise, she was already familiar with it through a beer called Kernza Lager, produced by the outdoor clothing company Patagonia. This connection highlights how innovative agricultural practices are starting to permeate popular culture and consumer products. Kernza Lager is not just a beverage; it symbolizes a movement towards sustainable agriculture and conscious consumption.

I would like to grow Kernza and I am going to find out more about licensing with The Land Institute.

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To purchase Kernza seeds for growing, you can consider the following options:

1. Albert Lea Seed:

   • They offer Kernza seeds, including the MN Clearwater Kernza variety, which is certified and has good lodging resistance.

   • Price: $12.00 per pure live seed pound (pls lb).

   • Licensing: You must apply and be licensed by The Land Institute (TLI) to buy, plant, or market Kernza seeds.

   • Albert Lea Seed - Kernza Information

   • MN Clearwater Kernza Details

2. The Land Institute:

   • Licensing is required to purchase Kernza seeds. You can apply for a license at kernza.org.

If you're interested in Kernza grain for culinary use rather than seeds for planting, other sites like Sustain-A-Grain and Perennial Pantry offer Kernza products but not seeds. Let me know if you need more details!

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