Cereal Rye, VNS

Cereal Rye is an upright, cool season, annual grass often confused with annual ryegrass. Rye can germinate and grow under cooler conditions than other covers. As such, it is a great option for fields with late harvest of cash crops. Due to the root structure and the top growth, rye adds high levels of soil organic matter. Early adopters of cover crops should terminate cereal rye at least 14 days prior to planting corn. Terminating rye at earlier stages reduces the risk for allelopathic effects, army worms, voles and nitrogen immobilization. Producers with more experience and healthier fields may consider planting corn into standing rye. Need to consider a foliar insecticide to prevent army worms in this situation.

Type: Grass
Season: Cool Season

Seeding & Growth

Precision: Not recommended
Drilled: 60 lb/A, 3/4" to 1 1/2" deep
Broadcast: 70 lb/A
Aerial: Ask a specialist for details

Dates: Late August to December (regional variations) Later than other cover crops in the fall

Average seeds/lb: 18,200
Inoculate: NR*
Emergence: 5-8 Days
Height: 3'-6'
Inter-seeding: Yes, ask a specialist for details
Drought and Heat: Very good drought tolerance, Low heat tolerance
Flooding: Tolerates brief flooding