Oregon State University Extension reported on Apr. 16 that three years of variety trials have shown it is possible to grow flax in Eastern Oregon, although results varied depending on spring precipitation and the specific varieties planted.
The findings are significant for local farmers considering alternative crops, as market interest in plant-based materials has increased. Flax can be grown for both grain and fiber, with its oil—often called linseed oil—used in food products and industrial applications such as wood finishes and paints. The research also highlighted that while flax can yield under limited water conditions, high-quality linen production requires long, mild growing seasons.
Trials were conducted from 2022 to 2024 at the Columbia Basin Agricultural Research Center near Pendleton, Oregon. Each year’s trial involved different planting dates and fertilizer applications based on environmental conditions. Yields ranged from an average of 553 pounds per acre in a dry year (2023) to 1,838 pounds per acre during a wetter season (2022). The variety ‘CDC Neela’ consistently yielded more than others tested over the three-year period. Oil content averaged about 42 percent across all varieties tested.
Researchers noted challenges such as sensitivity of seedlings to frost and moisture stress early in the season. They suggested that planting flax between late March and early April—ideally before a significant rain event—is optimal for this region. However, weed management remains an issue since broadleaf herbicide options are more limited compared to wheat.
Globally, Russia led flax seed production in 2023 with over one million tons produced; North Dakota and Montana account for most U.S. production according to international agricultural data referenced by researchers. Flax seed output worldwide is still below historic levels due to synthetic substitutes but may rise if demand increases.
Oregon State University Extension supports healthy communities, thriving youth, strong families and resilient ecosystems according to the official website (official website). The organization utilizes offices throughout every county in Oregon for delivering education (official website), serves as the outreach unit of Oregon State University within the national Cooperative Extension System (official website), boasts the largest 4-H membership nationally (official website), and delivers research-based programs across agriculture, family sciences, youth development and economic growth (official website).
The report concluded that while growing flax near Pendleton is feasible under certain conditions, widespread adoption may not occur without higher global demand for flaxseed products.
