Winter Rye — FarmPal
Hardy grain and cover crop that protects and builds soil through winter.
Sun
full
Water
low
Spacing
Broadcast seed at 4 lbs per 1000 sq ft
Days to Harvest
240-270 days (planted fall, harvested summer)
Planting Depth
1-2 inches deep
Companion Plants
Winter peas
Hairy vetch
Crimson clover
Avoid Planting Near
Late planting needs establishment before winter
Common Pests
Generally pest-resistant
Aphids occasionally
Diseases to Watch
Ergot (fungal)
Rust
Powdery mildew
Growing Tips
- •Plant 4-6 weeks before first frost
- •Best winter cover crop for cold climates
- •Allelopathic kills weed seeds
- •Cut before seed heads mature if using as cover crop
- •Deep roots break up compacted soil
Harvesting
- •Harvest when kernels are hard and dry
- •Thresh by beating or trampling
- •Winnow to separate grain from chaff
- •Clean thoroughly before storing or grinding
Storage
Dry kernels store 2+ years. Grind into flour as needed.
Varieties
Danko
Standard winter rye. Very cold-hardy.
Wheeler
Open-pollinated. Good for flour.
Aroostook
Originally from Maine. Extremely hardy.