Guide to Building a Kelp Farm in Minecraft 1.21

Kelp is an incredibly versatile resource in Minecraft 1.21, serving various purposes such as water block filling and enhancing composter levels. The mechanics for kelp farming have remained largely unchanged, as Mojang has not recently adjusted the Redstone functionalities that players can utilize. In this guide, we will detail how to establish a functional kelp farm in Minecraft 1.21.

Building a Kelp Farm in Minecraft 1.21

Step 1: Construct the Base with Observers and Pistons

Create a platform and a row of observers on top of pistons (Image via Mojang Studios)

Begin by creating a platform that measures 6×11 blocks. Position nine blocks in a straight line according to the provided image. Then, stack an additional block at one end, resulting in a total of eight blocks aligned horizontally.

Place eight pistons facing each other along this row, ensuring they are positioned correctly. Next, attach eight observers on top of the pistons. It is essential to place a building block behind each piston and observer, as illustrated in the image.

Connect all the pistons using redstone dust, ensuring it runs along the building blocks behind them. This setup will ensure that each observer activates only the corresponding piston rather than triggering the entire system simultaneously.

Step 2: Establish a Storage System and Initial Water Flow

Create a storage system and a water flow system (Image via Mojang Studios)

Following the completion of the observer and piston setup, it’s time to create a storage area equipped with hoppers and chests. Place an additional block at one end of your row of nine blocks to act as an anchor point for your storage.

Then, stack two building blocks on top of each observer and place a half slab on the first block to create a gully-like structure. To contain this channel, add two glass blocks diagonally across from the storage area.

Fill both left and right slabs with water, allowing it to flow toward the designated storage system below.

Step 3: Enclose the Farm and Fill with Water

Cover the entire farm and fill it with full water blocks (Image via Mojang Studios)

Once your water flow and storage system are established, you need to enclose the entire setup with glass blocks. Prior to filling the area with water, break one side of the glass to access the interior.

Fill the entire structure with full water blocks, avoiding any flowing sections that could displace the kelp. You will require approximately 16 buckets of water to achieve a complete fill.

Afterward, carefully remove the slabs to ensure a smooth transition of the flowing water into the filled area below. This configuration will facilitate the optimal growth of kelp and its eventual transportation to the storage system via hoppers.

Step 4: Plant Kelp and Finalize the Farm

Place kelp on the bottom and close the farm (Image via Mojang Studios)

With the structural components in place, proceed to plant kelp on each block between the two rows. To prevent kelp from spilling over, completely close off the farm from either end.

You can now take a break and watch as the kelp grows beneath the water, eventually being directed toward the hopper and chest storage. Over time, you will see your chests begin to fill with harvested kelp.