Coppicing is a similar process, but the tree is cut close to the ground. Both of these methods enabled small areas of woodlands to produce a large and consistent output of timber over a long period of time. A wide range of crops were cultivated for food, medicines and industrial uses. Wheat was grown for the production of bread, and the excess traded out for luxury goods. Oats were grown mainly for animal feed but were consumed by humans in the poorer areas.
Rye is another grain used for baking as bread.
Two varieties of barley were grown and one of them, a six-row barley, was used to make malt for the brewing of beer. Fermentation of the first years leaves extracts a dye of the indigo family. The roots of the five year old plant are crushed and boiled in water. WELD -Yellow dye. Herbs can be preserved in a variety of ways and can be stored for use all year round.