Every update in the world of farming simulation brings something new, and update 1.6 for Stardew Valley is no exception, introducing a new type of farm - the Meadowlands Farm. This farm is described as not the best place for growing crops, but it has its unique addition - chewy blue grass. So, what makes this type of farm so special?
Here, we'll delve into everything you need to know about the Meadowlands Farm type. This will include its unique features, as well as the layout of the area. Remember, if you want access to this farm type, you'll need to start your game over, as it can only be chosen right at the beginning.
Meadowlands Farm Layout
Before diving into the Meadowlands Farm, you'll probably want to see what it looks like, right? In the image above, you can see a map of the farm, with plenty of debris still littering the area. On the farm, you'll find the cave (where you can have either mushrooms or fruit bats) directly to the south of the farmhouse.
If you head left from your farmhouse, you'll run into a coop with a wooden fence, which we'll discuss further. On the left edge of the coop, you'll then find the ruined greenhouse that you'll be able to repair by completing Community Center bundles.
Starting With A Coop
On any other farm, you start with no buildings (besides the farmhouse) and a handful of turnip seeds. Things are a bit different on the Meadowlands Farm though. Now, you'll start with a coop and two chickens that already have names.
Instead of seeds, you'll get 15 bundles of hay. This is used to feed your chickens, but if they have access to growing grass, they can eat this as well.
These chickens start off as babies, but they'll quickly age up and start producing eggs for you every day. With the coop already built and a fence surrounding the area, you can open the little door and let them wander around outside.
Chewy Blue Grass
What's the deal with that blue grass that is all over the farm? This isn't just grass that has been re-colored; it serves a purpose. When farm animals eat blue grass, they will gain relationship hearts twice as fast.
This allows your animals to produce higher-quality goods in a shorter amount of time. It's important to note that when you cut the grass down, it will still become normal hay. It's best to let your animals munch on the grass when it's growing directly out of the ground.
Farmland Availability
The farm description noted that it wasn't the best for growing crops, but are you still able to farm? Of course! Right below your farmhouse, you can find a patch of dirt for some of your growing needs. This will be enough space to get a small farm going.
Crops can't be grown on the green grass; however, if you head southwest on the farm, you will find more yellow dirt areas, which are great for setting up farmland. There is even a small little pond that you can use as a centerpiece while farming in the Meadowlands.
Grandpa's Shrine
At first glance of the map, you may be wondering where Grandpa's Shrine is. It's a bit hidden, but we promise it's there. On the portion of river that crosses the top of the farm, you can find a plank bridge that is hidden behind a tree near the greenhouse.
Crossing over this bridge will take you to this upper portion, where Grandpa's Shrine is found behind another tree. The Shrine functions the same as usual; it's just a little hidden from view at first.
Water Access
The farm isn't too big, so filling up your watering can may seem like a non-issue, but in the early stages of the game, going back and forth to fill your can up can be tedious. Chances are, you won't have sprinklers early in the game, which means you will have to use your watering can and run to the nearest body of water when it's empty.
Prior to clearing away the debris on your farm, this process could feel a bit longer than usual, especially if you are trying to navigate through grass and wood. We suggest building a well once you have enough stone. This will only cost 1,000g and require 100 stone. Once you get enough stone, Robin will even send you mail talking about the well.
Tips For Meadowlands Farmers
Lastly, let's take a look at some tips for all you Meadowlands farmers out there. When choosing this farm, you will fare the best if you focus on raising animals. The blue grass can help you quickly increase your relationship with the animals, which is great if you are looking to process high-quality animal ingredients into foods like cheese and mayonnaise.
It's also important to not cut down all the grass you see! Once you build a silo, feel free to cut down green grass, but try to leave blue patches on the farm. These spots will grow over time, allowing you to place another coop or a barn here.
