Manor Lords: Maximizing Crop Yields with Basic Crop Rotation

To have sufficient food supplies in Manor Lords, it is important to understand how farming works in the game. This guide will explain a basic crop rotation strategy that can help maximize crop yields in Manor Lords without overcomplicating the process.

Understanding Crop Fertility

Different crops in Manor Lords have varying fertility requirements. Rye, for example, is a hardy crop that can grow in poor soil conditions, making it a good choice for early-game farming. Other crops like flax and barley require higher soil fertility to thrive.

It is important to note that continuously growing the same crop in a field will deplete the soil fertility over time. To prevent this, Manor Lords implements a crop rotation system. The basic crop rotation strategy in Manor Lords involves the following steps:

1. Create three farms of equal size (around one Morgan or one acre each) next to each other.
2. Plant the desired crop in one farm (e.g., rye) and leave the other two farms fallow (uncultivated).
3. In the following year, rotate the crops by planting the second farm and leaving the first and third farms fallow.
4. In the third year, plant the third farm while leaving the first two farms fallow.

By following this rotation, one field will always be producing a crop while the other two fields are resting and regaining fertility. When it is time to return to the first field, the soil fertility should have recovered enough to support another harvest.

Enhancing Fertility

After unlocking the "Fertilization" technology in Manor Lords, the crop rotation system can be further enhanced. This technology allows fallow fields to be designated as pastures for livestock such as sheep or goats. As the animals graze, they naturally fertilize the soil, speeding up the fertility recovery process.

With the use of pastures, it becomes possible to transition to a more intensive crop rotation system where crops can potentially be grown on the same field every year. This approach maximizes agricultural output while maintaining optimal soil conditions.

Diversifying Crop Production

As the settlement in Manor Lords grows, it may become necessary to diversify the crops being grown. Crops like barley (for ale production) and flax (for clothing) become increasingly important.

By applying the principles of crop rotation and utilizing pastures, multiple crop types can be effectively managed across the farmlands. This ensures a steady supply of resources while promoting soil health and sustainability.