Winter Rye

Garlic Boy Seeds Verified independent store

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Winter Rye, also known as Cereal Rye, is one of the most widely used cover crops in North America and a favorite on our farm. It is easy to use and has large seeds that germinate q uickly, forming a vigorous canopy before weeds can emerge. The plants also form extensive root systems that help build soil by scavenging nutrients, increasing organic matter, and improving soil structure. Winter Rye can be planted as a cover crop, grazed by livestock or harvested as a nutritious grain for food. It can be planted alone or as a nurse crop with other species such as clover. Seeding rate can be reduced by half when planting as a mix with other seed types. Hardy to zone 3, Fall Rye is usually planted in late summer or fall and left to overwinter, then it resumes growth in spring. This keeps the soil covered year-round and helps prevent negative impacts such as erosion and nutrient losses from leaching or runoff. Plants can be tilled in spring or early summer once they reach 12" to 16" and before they form heads. Alternatively, Fall Rye can be planted earlier in the growing season as a ground cover that stays low in height. Since it is a winter-annual (requires vernalization from cold exposure) the plants won't produce seed heads until they have gone through winter. This means Winter Rye is perfect for maintenance-free pathways, wheel tracks or planting beds where it will suppress weeds and won't require mowing during the first growing season. Note: If Winter Rye is planted very early in spring and temperatures are extremely cold, the plants may still vernalize and produce seed heads. If this is not desired, it is important to delay seeding until temperatures warm. Untreated, Non-GEO Seed 250g covers approximately 200 sq. ft1 kg covers approximately 800 sq. ft Show more