How to Germinate Annual Rye Grass

Annual ryegrass is a short-duration grass that germinates quickly. It is generally used for short-term grass needs such as a cover crop for grazing or forage, or for quick ground cover. According to the University of Maryland's Maryland Cooperative Extension, since annual ryegrass grows quickly in a wide range of soils and is palatable and easily digestible, it is often used in production systems of livestock. To germinate annual ryegrass, a successful experience depends heavily on understanding when to plant and the necessary conditions for healthy growth.

Things You'll Need

  • Annual ryegrass seeds
  • Drill
  • Cultipacker
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Instructions

    • 1

      Germinate your annual rye grass during the appropriate time of year. Annual rye grass needs to be grown during late summer to early fall. Annual rye is a cool-weather grass and will not survive in temperatures outside of its preferential range.

    • 2

      Germinate your annual rye grass in day temperatures ranging between 95 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and night temperatures between 59 and 36 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the University of Maryland, successful germination is highly dependent on the right temperature. When temperatures fall below 44 degrees Fahrenheit, the growth of annual rye may cease completely. Germination peaks at average daily temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Aim to germinate your annual rye seeds during your region's optimal temperature conditions.

    • 3

      Create the proper soil conditions for your annual rye grass. Annual rye grass prefers moist, well-drained, silty soil and tolerates pH levels from 5 to 8. Irrigate your soil for successful germination; annual rye grass will germinate on soil surface if soil is irrigated. Especially if over-seeding, you should create a water schedule during which you water three to six times a day, from 30 seconds at a time to one minute, until the seeds germinate. To keep seeds from drying out once they reach germination, water one to two times a day for a week; when the week is up, begin watering three times per week, three minutes each watering, for a duration of two weeks, to ensure successful germination and healthy growth.

    • 4

      Germinate your annual rye grass in full sunlight. Annual rye grass tolerates light shade but grows better in sunny if cool conditions.