Perennial grain development: Past efforts and potential for the future

Abstract The development of perennial grains has the potential to provide environmentally sound, economically viable alternatives for use on erodible land where annual crop production is not sustainable. The concept of perennial grain production is not new. Historically, seeds of perennial grasses have been used as grain by various human cultures. In this paper, efforts to develop perennial grain crops which were initiated during the 20th century are discussed. These include attempts by the Soviets and Europeans to perennialize annual grains such as wheat and rye. More recently, efforts in the U.S. inspired by the publication of Dr. Wes Jackson's book, New Roots for Agriculture,1,2 have focused upon the domestication of perennial grass species. The advantages and disadvantages of these two approaches to perennial grain development are discussed. Specific examples are given with the hope that future efforts can benefit from experiences of the past and present.