Barley was easier to grow than wheat, and gave a marginally large yield per acre. However, it was neither as tasty nor as nutritious as wheat. As a result, whenever a farmer could afford to do so, he planted more acerage in wheat. For one thing, wheat brought a higher price on the market in the event there was a surplus to sell. Barley was often grown where the soil would not support wheat, and for its value in making ale. Of course, in a pinch it could be eaten too.