Principles of Common Buckwheat Production

Abstract

Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) is a fast growing plant with a variety of utilizations. Buckwheat grain is used primarily for human consumption but also for livestock feed. Its usages as a green fodder, green manure and bee pasture are also worth mentioning. Because of its rapid growth buckwheat can be grown as a second crop as well. It is a low input plant, it does not often require direct fertilization or plant protection measures therefore it is appropriate for growing organically. These parameters can make buckwheat more attractive for not only Hungarian, but also for other European farmers. In this paper the history and state of buckwheat production are reviewed and the production practices are detailed.