Buckwheat is ripe ripe inflorescences of buckwheat, a cultivated cereal plant. Buckwheat is grown in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, although ancient India is considered its homeland.
Growing buckwheat
In Russia, a large number of buckwheat fields are located in southern Siberia, Transbaikalia and the Far East. In these areas, buckwheat grows on moist fertile soils surrounded by forest, which protects the plant from weathering water from the soil. High humidity is a prerequisite for the growth of buckwheat crops, so the fields are located near water bodies. Soil moisture of 20-30%, and a temperature of at least 13 ° C will be favorable conditions for good buckwheat growth. Low soil temperatures slow down the growth of the plant, which can ultimately lead to its death. And at high temperatures, buckwheat can burn, especially during flowering. Buckwheat is very demanding on the composition of the soil and gives a good harvest in the field of potatoes and corn. Fertilized soil with nitrogen and phosphorus has a beneficial effect on the growth and flowering of buckwheat.
Bloom
With proper planting and good weather conditions, buckwheat sprouts in 6-7 days, and after 3-4 weeks the first flowers appear. Buckwheat inflorescences are collected in a brush, and the flowers have various pink shades. They fade from bottom to top, so the grains located on the lower tiers of the inflorescence are larger and fuller. The flowering period can last up to two months. At this time, a large number of bees flock to the buckwheat fields, since buckwheat is an excellent honey plant. Experienced beekeepers set up hives around the perimeter of the buckwheat field. Bees, collecting pollen, pollinate plants, which increases the yield of buckwheat up to 50-60%. Honey from this culture has beneficial disinfectant properties. In France, for example, buckwheat is grown only for these purposes.
Beneficial features
Buckwheat, which is so popular in Russia, is a product of shortage in many countries. And its healing properties have been known since antiquity. Buckwheat is rich in B vitamins, as well as trace elements that have a beneficial effect on blood composition. Iron, copper, manganese, chromium and other substances are found in buckwheat in large quantities. Therefore, this cereal is one of the leaders in the treatment of anemia and other blood diseases. Lysine, the most important amino acid involved in building protein bodies, is also found in buckwheat.
