viljakäiku

Viljakäiku is a term used in certain agricultural contexts, primarily in some Nordic countries, to describe the phenomenon of standing grain, particularly rye or barley, being flattened or laid down. This laying down is typically caused by external factors rather than the grain itself growing in a prostrate manner. The most common agents of viljakäiku are strong winds, heavy rainfall, or a combination of both. Severe storms can cause significant crop damage by flattening large areas of a field.

The extent of viljakäiku can vary greatly. In some cases, it might affect only small patches of a field, while in others, an entire crop can be laid down. This can present challenges for farmers during harvest, as specialized machinery may be required to lift and gather the flattened grain. The quality of the grain can also be affected, with potential for increased moisture content and susceptibility to fungal growth when lying on the ground. While the term itself is not universally recognized in all agricultural literature, the phenomenon it describes is a common occurrence in grain cultivation worldwide. Understanding the causes and potential consequences of viljakäiku is important for agricultural planning and mitigation strategies.