In 1564, farming was a subsistence activity for most people. The majority of the population lived in rural areas and grew their own food. Farms were small, and farmers used simple tools and techniques.
Crops
The main crops grown in 1564 were wheat, rye, barley, and oats. These crops were used to make bread, porridge, and beer. Other crops grown included peas, beans, lentils, and turnips.
Livestock
Farmers also kept livestock, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and chickens. Livestock provided meat, milk, eggs, and wool.
Farming Techniques
Farmers used simple tools and techniques to cultivate their crops. They plowed their fields with wooden plows, and they used hoes and scythes to harvest their crops. They also used manure to fertilize their fields.
Challenges
Farmers faced a number of challenges, including weather conditions, pests, and diseases. Bad weather could damage crops, and pests and diseases could kill livestock. Farmers also had to contend with the threat of war and invasion.
Farming in 1616
By 1616, farming had changed significantly. The population had increased, and more land was being used for agriculture. Farms were larger, and farmers were using more advanced tools and techniques.
Crops
The main crops grown in 1616 were still wheat, rye, barley, and oats. However, new crops, such as corn and potatoes, were also being grown. These crops were more productive and easier to grow than traditional crops.
Livestock
Farmers also kept livestock, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and chickens. However, the number of livestock kept per farm had increased. Livestock were also being used more efficiently. For example, horses were being used to pull plows, and oxen were being used to thresh grain.
Farming Techniques
Farmers were using more advanced tools and techniques to cultivate their crops. They were using iron plows, and they were using seed drills to plant their crops. They were also using more manure to fertilize their fields.
Challenges
Farmers still faced a number of challenges, including weather conditions, pests, and diseases. However, they were better equipped to deal with these challenges than they had been in 1564.
Overall
Farming changed significantly between 1564 and 1616. The population had increased, and more land was being used for agriculture. Farms were larger, and farmers were using more advanced tools and techniques. These changes led to increased agricultural productivity and a more reliable food supply.