Seed is produced in a boll or capsule. Human consumption of flax seed is increasing rapidly because of its high dietary fiber, omega-3 oils and anti-carcinogenic lignans. Although late frosts may … Flax, a blue-flowering plant, grows best in cool climates with long periods of daylight. Flax fiber is also under consideration as a lighter, environmentally friendly replacement for glass in cars. The paper and pulp industry uses the fiber in the stem of flax plants for linen sheets, napkins, table cloths and clothing, and for fine papers like parchment paper and cigarette paper. Oil Crops Outlook, Economic Research Service, USDA. Flax production in the United States occurs primarily in North Dakota, followed by South Dakota, Montana and Minnesota. We recommend a planting depth of 0.75 to 1.5 inches. In 2017, total U.S. flax production was 3.84 million bushels. Download a PDF version of this unit 2010). Research also indicates additional health benefits related to the autoimmune system. As wildflowers, they require little care. How to Grow Flax Plants: Grow Flax in full sun. Today producers in the upper Midwest and the Prairie Provinces of Canada grow primarily seed flax. Several other species in the genus Linum are similar in appearance to L. usitatissimum, cultivated flax, including some that have similar blue flowers, and others with white, yellow, or red flowers. Most commercial operations in North America produce flax for its seeds. For information on insect control, contact your county’s NDSU Extension office or consult NDSU publication E1143, “Field Crop Insect Management Guide.”. When combined, China, the United States and India account for another 40 percent of world production. Revised by Hans Kandel, Agronomist, NDSU Extension Service. However they can tolerate a partial shade position. Producers also must have tight storage bins because even small holes and cracks will result in bin leakage. In years when moisture is available, the maturation period may extend until a hard frost kills the crop. The plant is adaptable to a variety of soils and climates but grows best in well-drained sandy loam and in temperate climates. The blue flax flower, Linum lewisii, is a wildflower native to California, but can be grown with a 70 percent success rate in other parts of the United States. Flax production moved west across the northern U.S. and Canada during the 1800s. 2005). Most commercial operations in North America produce flax for its seeds. For a pleasing look in the garden, flax can be planted in large drifts to mimic its native growth habit. Treated seed stored for long periods needs to be retested for germination before use. Flax should be harvested when 90% of the bolls turn brown. Learn More. Grow and Harvest Flax. Flax with green stems is the most difficult of all grains to cut. Desiccants labeled for use in flax in North Dakota include Defol, Sharpen, Valor SX and Valor EX. The flax plant is used for several purposes besides food. Topics such as seeding, harvesting, managing pests and diseases for example. Today producers in the upper Midwest and the Prairie Provinces of Canada grow primarily seed flax. In the past, losses from diseases were largely responsible for the perception that flax is a risky crop. They prefer rich soil. Flax seedlings are less able to force their way through a soil crust than wheat seedlings. Propagate by seed. At a minimum, Flax needs 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Interest in healthful diets for humans and animals is increasing the demand for flax seed. It's easy to start from seeds; just scatter them over a large area of well-drained soil and enjoy the benefits of this blooming groundcover plant. Control weeds following the harvest of the preceding crop. Loaded With Vital Nutrients. 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