From a tasty treat to a skin-care solution, oats have an array of uses. Illinois’ climate and soil enable farmers throughout the state to produce a large amount of oats. Check out more fun oat facts.

- Oats thrive in cold climates, even withstanding mild frosts.
- Because of their excellent nutrition when harvested as hay or silage, oats are commonly grown as forage for livestock.
- Oats are a popular cover crop because they can quickly build biomass while suppressing weeds and improving soil health.