In a greenhouse in rural Kansas, Lee DeHaan from the Land Institute is developing Kernza, a perennial grain that could revolutionize agriculture by providing a sustainable alternative to annual crops like wheat. Unlike annuals, which must be replanted each year and contribute to environmental degradation, perennials like Kernza maintain their roots over multiple growing seasons, helping to reduce soil erosion and improve soil health.
Since its inception in 2010, DeHaan’s breeding program has transformed a wild wheatgrass variety into a high-yielding cultivated crop. Although current Kernza yields are about one-fourth that of annual wheat, DeHaan believes advancements in breeding could bridge this gap within 15 years. The roots of Kernza can grow up to three meters deep, providing numerous agricultural benefits, including improved drought resistance and lower need for fertilizers and pesticides.
The potential for perennial crops is broad, with ongoing research collaborations across 30 countries aiming to develop various perennial grains. A notable success story is perennial rice, which has been cultivated in China since 2018 and now matches the yields of elite annual varieties while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
While challenges remain—such as improving yields and adapting supply chains—DeHaan emphasizes that perennial grains can offer a trifecta of agricultural sustainability: productivity, economic viability, and environmental health. He envisions a shift in agricultural resources toward perennials, with companies like General Mills already incorporating Kernza into their products.
DeHaan’s work signifies a transformative potential for farming practices, striving for a future where agricultural systems can nourish both people and the planet.
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