Direct answer

Random tick speed controls how often eligible blocks receive random updates. A large value can make crops and block processes expensive without changing scheduled redstone ticks.

How to check it

  1. Identify the exact Minecraft version and query the active random tick gamerule before making changes.
  2. For Minecraft Java 1.21.11 and newer, check the namespaced minecraft:random_tick_speed rule; older versions used randomTickSpeed.
  3. Profile a densely farmed area at the current value, then compare after restoring the server’s intended default.

Example: When farms suddenly grow much faster after a console change and tick time increases, compare the active gamerule with the intended default; do not blame the Java garbage collector first.

What to change

Undo accidental extreme gamerule values and investigate intentional datapack or admin changes. Perform a backup first on technical worlds that rely on accelerated growth.

Software and version notes

Random tick speed is separate from tick-rates in Paper’s world config and does not accelerate all game systems. Defaults or accepted command formatting may vary by edition and release.

Verify the result

Confirm crop growth and leaf/fire behavior are intended, and the affected area no longer creates disproportionate tick work.

References