Old School RuneScape (OSRS) presents a unique challenge for players, especially those who choose to embark on the Ironman mode. This mode restricts players from trading with others, making resource gathering and self-sufficiency crucial. One of the most rewarding skills for Ironman players is Farming. In this guide, we'll explore how to maximize your Farming efficiency, the best crops to grow, and tips to make the most of your time in OSRS.
Understanding Farming in OSRS
Farming is a skill that allows players to grow their own herbs, vegetables, and trees, offering a sustainable way to obtain resources. For Ironman players, this skill is particularly beneficial, as it can provide essential supplies for skilling, questing, and combat.
Benefits of Farming for Ironman
1. Self-sufficiency: Farming allows Ironman players to gather their own resources without the need for trading.
2. Access to herbs: Many potions require herbs, which are vital for combat and skilling.
3. Food sources: Growing your own food can save time and provide healing during adventures.
4. Experience: Farming provides experience points, contributing to overall skill levels.
Getting Started with Farming
Before diving into Farming, you’ll need to understand a few key concepts:
Farming Tools and Equipment
- Spade: Essential for digging and preparing patches.
- Seed dibber: Used for planting seeds in the ground.
- Watering can: Required to water crops that need it.
You can find these items in various locations or buy them from general stores.
Where to Farm
Farming patches are scattered throughout Gielinor. Here are some important locations you should know:
- Tree patches: Located in places like Varrock, Falador, and Taverley.
- Herb patches: Available in locations such as Catherby and the Taverley patch.
- Flower patches: Can be found in places like Catherby and Varrock.
- Vegetable patches: Located near Catherby and the Farming Guild.
Each patch can be used for different types of crops, and certain locations provide bonuses or are closer to banks, making them more convenient.
Leveling Up Your Farming Skill
Farming can be leveled up efficiently through various methods. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Planting Herbs
Herbs are excellent for Ironman players. Not only do they provide experience, but they also yield valuable potions. Here’s a simple plan for herb farming:
- Start with Ranarr seeds: At level 32 Farming, you can plant Ranarrs, which are useful for prayer potions.
- Use the Farming Guild: Once you reach level 45, the Farming Guild offers access to a higher-tier of herbs.
- Herb runs: Plan your runs to ensure you maximize the amount of herbs harvested.
2. Growing Trees
Tree farming is vital for Ironman players. Here’s how to go about it:
- Oak trees: Start at level 15 with Oak seeds. They provide decent experience and are easy to grow.
- Willow trees: At level 30, switch to Willows, which yield more experience per harvest.
- Fruit trees: As you progress, fruit trees like Apple and Banana trees offer additional food sources.
3. Utilizing Allotments
Allotment farming is another profitable way to gain experience and resources. Here’s a breakdown:
- Potatoes: Start planting Potatoes at level 1. They are quick to grow and provide a food source.
- Cabbages: At level 7, switch to Cabbages, which also provide a good experience rate.
- Strawberries: Once you reach level 12, you can plant Strawberries for a higher experience yield.
Advanced Farming Techniques
As you become more proficient in Farming, you should consider implementing advanced strategies to optimize your experience gain and resource collection.
1. Using Compost and Super Compost
Using compost can significantly improve crop yield. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Compost: Made from rotting food and vegetable scraps. It’s easy to obtain and boosts crop yield.
- Super Compost: Provides an even greater boost and is made from a mix of compost and specific items like pumpkins.
2. Farming Contracts
Once you reach level 55 Farming, you can participate in farming contracts via the Farming Guild. This feature provides:
- Experience: Completing contracts grants Farming experience.
- Rewards: You can receive seeds and farming supplies, which are essential for Ironman players.
3. Efficient Farming Routes
Planning your farming routes can save you time and increase productivity:
- Plan your runs: Create a route that allows you to visit multiple patches in one trip.
- Combine with other skills: Consider incorporating your farming runs with woodcutting or herb gathering to utilize your time efficiently.
Tips for Ironman Farming Success
Here are some final tips to help you succeed in your Farming journey:
- Keep track of your seeds: Always monitor your seed supply to avoid running out.
- Use the Farming Guild: If you have access, utilize the Farming Guild for its benefits and resources.
- Participate in Events: Seasonal events often provide unique seeds or bonuses that can enhance your farming experience.
- Stay patient: Farming takes time, but the rewards are worth the effort.
Conclusion
Farming in OSRS is an invaluable skill for Ironman players. With careful planning, efficient use of resources, and a clear understanding of the best crops to grow, you can develop a robust Farming practice that will serve you well in your adventures. As you progress through the game, remember that patience and consistency are key to mastering Farming and becoming self-sufficient in Old School RuneScape. Happy farming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best starting crop for Ironman farming in OSRS?
Potatoes are a great starting crop for Ironman farming as they are easy to grow, have a quick growth cycle, and can be used for cooking and quest requirements.
How do you efficiently train Farming on an Ironman account?
To efficiently train Farming, focus on planting high-yield crops like strawberries or herbs, and use the farming guild for access to better seeds and tools.
What are the benefits of growing herbs for Ironman players?
Growing herbs provides valuable supplies for Herblore, which are crucial for making potions. Herbs like Ranarr and Snapdragon are especially useful.
What should I know about using the Farming Guild as an Ironman?
The Farming Guild offers access to higher-tier seeds, a better farming interface, and a bank chest nearby, making it a key location for Ironman players.
How can I maximize my Farming experience gains?
Maximize experience gains by planting crops that yield the highest experience per hour and utilizing the best available farming methods and tools.
What are the best trees to plant for Farming experience as an Ironman?
Fruit trees like Willow and Maple provide good experience and are relatively easy to grow. Planting them in tree patches will yield significant experience.
How often should I check my crops on an Ironman account?
Check your crops every 40-80 minutes, depending on the crop type, to ensure optimal harvest times and to avoid crop failure.
What items can help with Farming on an Ironman account?
Items like the enchanted secateurs, compost, and super compost can greatly improve your farming yields and increase the chances of producing more crops.
Are there any quests that provide Farming experience for Ironman players?
Yes, quests like 'Fairytale I - Growing Pains' and 'The Garden of Tranquility' provide Farming experience as rewards and can help boost your Farming level.
What is the best way to manage Farming patches efficiently?
Use a farming route that allows you to plant and harvest multiple patches in one trip, and prioritize crops that provide the best returns for your time investment.
