For this student originated study, one learning object will be to cultivate flax for the purpose of processing into linen. This project will be completed over the course of Spring and Summer quarters.
Materials needed:
- One bed at least 4”x4” (preferably with decent sun exposure)
- Flame weeder
- Drip tape (only during germination)
Seeds used: Fiberevolution organic “Agatha” flax seed
Cultivation plan for Spring Quarter:
- Week 1: Flame weed
- Week 1: Sow ½ tablespoon for every 5 square feet, use a rake to push seeds about ¼ inch into soil
- Week 1 – 3: Water 1” per week until germinated, cease watering after germination
- Week 3 – 10: Visit the crop at least every other day to keep an eye on weeds and crop health
Cultivation plan for Summer Quarter:
- Week 1 – 3: Visit the crop at least every other day to keep an eye on weeds and crop health
- Week 4: Harvest crop by pulling stalk out by root, bunch and leave on bed for 10 days.
- Week 5: Bunch flax and remove from field to begin retting process
Benefit for farm:
Opportunity to expose POF students to farming for a purpose other than food, flax plants flower continuously for 3 to 4 weeks which attracts many beneficial insects.
Benefit for student:
Hands-on experience cultivating one of the most common plant fibers, opportunity to analysis the sustainability of that particular farming practice.