The Most Popular Crop in Ireland, Ranked

Choose the crop you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 28, 2024 06:34
In the lush, green fields of Ireland, farmers dedicate their efforts to cultivating crops that form a cornerstone of both local cuisine and economy. Understanding which crops resonate most with both locals and enthusiasts helps in prioritizing agricultural policies and consumer market strategies. This insight proves invaluable for adjusting supplies to meet demand and for educational purposes in agricultural schools. By voting for your preferred crop, you contribute to a broader understanding of agricultural preferences and trends in Ireland. Each vote helps in assembling a real-time, accurate ranking that reflects current popular opinions and potentially influences future farming decisions. Engaging in this voting process not only allows you to express your preference but also connects you with a community of like-minded individuals who value Ireland's agricultural heritage.

What Is the Most Popular Crop in Ireland?

  1. 1
    83
    votes
    Potatoes have been a staple food in Ireland for centuries, and the country is known for its high-quality potato production. Potatoes are grown in almost every county in Ireland and are used in many traditional dishes such as Irish stew and colcannon.
    Potatoes are one of the most popular crops grown in the Darjeeling region. They are starchy root vegetables that are widely used in culinary preparations. Potatoes have a smooth, thin skin and a soft, creamy flesh. They are known for their versatility and are used in various dishes such as mashed potatoes, fries, curries, and soups. The crop is known for its high yield and nutritional value.
    • Varieties: Darjeeling Red, Kufri Sindhuri, Kufri Lauvkar, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Himalini, and others
    • Growth period: 3-4 months
    • Climate requirements: Cool climate with a temperature range of 10-25°C
    • Soil type: Well-drained loamy soil with pH between 5.0 to 6.5
    • Watering: Requires regular watering, but avoid waterlogging
  2. 2
    40
    votes
    Barley is an important crop in Ireland's agricultural sector, with the majority of the crop used for malting to produce beer and whiskey. Ireland's temperate climate and fertile soil are ideal for growing barley.
    Barley is a cereal crop widely cultivated in Ireland. It is a member of the grass family and is primarily grown for its grain, which is used in various food and beverage applications.
    • Scientific Name: Hordeum vulgare
    • Type: Annual grass
    • Height: 0.6 - 1.2 meters
    • Growth Habit: Upright and tufted
    • Color: Green
  3. 3
    29
    votes
    Wheat is another important crop in Ireland, used for making bread, pasta, and other food products. The country's mild climate and ample rainfall provide ideal growing conditions for wheat.
    Wheat is a cereal grain grown widely in the region of Darjeeling. It is known for its versatility and nutritional value, making it a staple crop in many countries. Wheat is typically cultivated for its edible seeds which are ground into flour to make bread, pasta, pastries, and other baked goods.
    • Family: Poaceae
    • Genus: Triticum
    • Origin: Unknown (ancient cultivation)
    • Cultivation Type: Annual
    • Growth Habit: Grass-like
  4. 4
    12
    votes
    Oats are grown in many parts of Ireland and are used for making porridge, oatcakes, and other food products. The country's humid climate and fertile soil make it an ideal place for growing oats.
    Oats is a widely cultivated crop in Ireland, known for its nutritious and versatile properties. It is a hardy cereal grain that grows well in the cool and damp climate of the country. Oats have been a staple food in Ireland for centuries and are used in various dishes, including porridge, oatcakes, and oatmeal cookies. They are also an essential ingredient in the production of whiskey and beer.
    • Scientific Name: Avena sativa
    • Type: Cereal Grain
    • Growth Habit: Annual
    • Climate Preference: Cool and Damp
    • Cultivation Area: Widely cultivated in Ireland
  5. 5
    17
    votes
    Rapeseed is a crop that has become increasingly popular in Ireland in recent years, with farmers growing it for its oil, which is used in cooking and as a biofuel.
    Rapeseed, also known as oilseed rape or canola, is a popular crop in Ireland. It is a bright yellow flowering plant with small round seeds that produce high-quality oil. The creator of the rapeseed variety commonly grown in Ireland is not specified, as it is a widely cultivated crop with various cultivars available.
    • Scientific Name: Brassica napus
    • Oil Content: Approximately 40%
    • Fatty Acids: High in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (omega-3 and omega-6)
    • Nutritional Value: A good source of Vitamin E and essential fatty acids
    • Cultivation Area: Wide cultivation across Ireland
  6. 6
    10
    votes
    Sugar beet was once an important crop in Ireland, but production has declined in recent years due to competition from cheaper imports.
    Sugar beet is a biennial crop known for its high sugar content, primarily grown for sugar production. It belongs to the beet family (Amaranthaceae) and has a conical-shaped root that stores the sweet sap. The mature plant features wide, green leaves on thick stems.
    • Scientific Name: Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
    • Origin: Central and Eastern Europe
    • Cultivated Varieties: Sugar beet varieties include Maribo, BTS 29, Tarus, Colosse, and Mona Lisa.
    • Growing Season: Sugar beet is typically sown in spring and harvested in autumn after a growth period of about 5-6 months.
    • Sugar Content: Sugar beet contains a high percentage of sucrose, with some varieties reaching up to 20% sugar content.
    Sugar Beet in other rankings
  7. 7
    13
    votes
    Carrots are grown in many parts of Ireland and are used in a variety of dishes such as stews, soups, and salads. The country's cool climate and fertile soil make it an ideal place for growing carrots.
    Carrots are a nutritious and crunchy vegetable that is often used as a healthy treat for dogs. They are popular among canines due to their delicious taste and numerous health benefits.
    • Nutritional value: Carrots are low in calories and fat, rich in vitamins (such as A, C, and K), and contain essential minerals like potassium and fiber.
    • Dental health: Chewing on carrots helps to promote dental health, as their crunchy texture can help remove plaque and tartar buildup on dogs' teeth.
    • Eye health: Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which supports good vision and eye health in dogs.
    • Digestive health: The high fiber content in carrots aids in healthy digestion and can help regulate bowel movements for dogs.
    • Immune system support: The antioxidants present in carrots help boost dogs' immune systems and protect against various diseases.
  8. 8
    8
    votes
    Cabbage is a popular vegetable in Ireland, used in many traditional dishes such as colcannon and bacon and cabbage. The country's cool climate and ample rainfall make it an ideal place for growing cabbage.
    Cabbage is a popular leafy green vegetable in Ireland. It is a member of the Brassica family, known for its round or elongated head of densely packed leaves. Cabbage is a versatile crop that can be cooked or eaten raw in salads. It is widely used in traditional Irish cuisine and is known for its robust flavor and nutritional value.
    • Plant family: Brassica
    • Head shape: Round or elongated
    • Leaf type: Densely packed leaves
    • Common uses: Cooking, raw consumption, salads
    • Flavor: Robust
  9. 9
    5
    votes
    Turnips are grown in many parts of Ireland and are used in dishes such as stews and casseroles. The country's cool climate and fertile soil make it an ideal place for growing turnips.
    Turnips are a popular root vegetable in Ireland. They have a round shape and a white or purple skin, with a crisp and juicy white flesh inside. Turnips are known for their earthy and slightly sweet flavor. They are commonly used in Irish cuisine, both as a standalone vegetable and as an ingredient in soups, stews, and traditional dishes like colcannon and Irish stew. Turnips are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nutritious choice for meals.
    • Family: Brassicaceae
    • Shape: Round
    • Skin Color: Purple or White
    • Texture: Crisp
    • Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet
  10. 10
    7
    votes
    Strawberries are grown in many parts of Ireland, with the majority of the crop grown in polytunnels to protect the plants from the country's cool and wet climate.
    Strawberries are a popular fruit in Ireland, known for their vibrant red color, sweet taste, and delicate texture. They are small, juicy berries that are typically eaten fresh or used in various desserts, jams, and sauces. Strawberries have a distinct aroma and are loved for their refreshing flavor, making them a favored choice during the summer season. They are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, providing several health benefits.
    • Scientific Name: Fragaria × ananassa
    • Size: Small to medium
    • Color: Bright red
    • Taste: Sweet
    • Texture: Delicate

Missing your favorite crop?

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Ranking factors for popular crop

  1. Cultivation area
    The area of land dedicated to cultivating a specific crop is an essential factor in determining its popularity. A higher cultivation area indicates that a crop is more extensively grown and thus more popular among farmers.
  2. Production volume
    The total amount of a crop produced in a given year is another important indicator of its popularity. A higher production volume signifies that the crop is more widely grown and consumed.
  3. Economic value
    The contribution of a crop to the country's overall agricultural economy should also be taken into account. A crop with a higher economic value generally indicates that it is more essential for the country's income, trade, and food security.
  4. Consumption habits
    The demand and consumption patterns of a crop within the country are crucial factors. If a particular crop is widely consumed as a staple food or a primary ingredient in popular dishes, its popularity increases.
  5. Cultural significance
    The cultural importance of a crop can also impact its ranking. Certain crops have historical or traditional importance in a country, which can influence its popularity and overall production.
  6. Government policies and subsidies
    The level of government support for specific crop cultivation affects its popularity as well. Policies such as subsidies, research funding, and crop insurance may favor certain crops over others, contributing to their popularity.
  7. Climate and soil suitability
    The suitability of a crop to the local climate and soil conditions is an essential factor. A crop that is well-adapted to the region's environmental conditions tends to be more popular among farmers.
  8. Pest and disease resistance
    Crops that have higher resistance to common pests and diseases in the region are often more popular due to their potential for higher yields and lower crop losses.
  9. Export demand
    If a particular crop has a high demand in international markets, it usually becomes more popular among growers and may have a higher ranking.
  10. Crop versatility and processing potential
    Crops that can be used for multiple purposes, such as food, animal feed, or industrial uses, tend to be more popular. Additionally, if a crop can be easily processed into value-added products, it can further drive its demand and popularity.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular crop in Ireland. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or crop is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2054 views
  • 227 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each crop once every 24 hours. The rank of each crop is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most popular crop in ireland

Ireland is a country with a rich agricultural history and has been known for its farming practices for centuries. The Irish climate is particularly well-suited for growing a variety of crops, making agriculture one of the most important industries in the country. When it comes to the most popular crop in Ireland, one cannot overlook the potato. The potato has been an integral part of Irish cuisine for centuries, and it remains a staple food in many households to this day. However, Ireland is also known for its production of other crops such as barley, wheat, and oats, which are used in the production of beer, whiskey, and other popular beverages. With such a diverse range of crops being grown in Ireland, it's no surprise that the country is renowned for its agricultural expertise.

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