Perennial grains provide multiple ecological advantages over conventional annual crops, helping to restore our planet while producing nutritious food.
Improved Soil Health
Deep, extensive root systems enhance soil structure and microbial activity.
Water Conservation
Reduced runoff and increased water infiltration protect watersheds.
Carbon Sequestration
Year-round living roots capture and store carbon in the soil.
Why Kernza®?
Kernza® is the first commercially available perennial grain.
Transitioning from an annual model (i.e. corn, wheat, soybeans) to a perennial model is the best chance we have to create a truly regenerative food system across the globe.
Crop characteristics
Kernza®’s extensive root system prevents erosion, cleans water, mitigates nitrate leaching, improves soil health, and sequesters more atmospheric carbon than traditional wheat, making it both a grain and climate solution. Perennial grasslands sequester 300 – 1,000 pounds of atmospheric carbon per acre per year.
Commercial launch
Kernza®’s commercial launch is the result of an unprecedented coalition of land grant universities, farmers, research partners, processors, and CPG companies from 15 states and 10 countries, including leadership from the University of Minnesota’s Forever Green Initiative.
Featured Resource
Environmental Benefits Guide
Featured Guide
Environmental Benefits Guide
Discover how Kernza®’s deep root system creates unprecedented environmental benefits: 99% reduction in nitrate contamination, 2-3x carbon sequestration rates, and enhanced biodiversity.
Kernza is harvested from intermediate wheatgrass, growers can expect three harvests from one planting. Learn more about Kernza through this series hosted by Marbleseed: