Here's why:
* Different Uses: Wheat and barley are used for different purposes (bread vs. beer/animal feed).
* Botanical Differences: While both are grains, they are distinct species with different growth patterns.
Possible Alternatives:
* Grain: This is the most general term, encompassing both wheat and barley.
* Cereals: A broader category that includes wheat, barley, rice, and other grains.
* Harvest: Could be used to refer to a collection of wheat and barley, especially if they are harvested together.
* Field: This emphasizes the agricultural aspect, but could be used for any type of crop.
It's important to consider the context and your intended meaning when choosing a collective noun.