Virginia Wild Rye (Elymus virginicus) actively grows during the spring and fall when soil temperatures are cool. Similar to Canada Wild Rye with its graceful, wispy features, this variety has a smaller seed head. This grass turns a warming shade of tan and crimson in the fall. Warm season grass companions to this cool season variety are Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, Savannah Grass, and Switch Grass.
Virginia Wild Rye is a great choice to help with erosion control and stream bank stabilization as it is fast-growing. It can tolerate drier, sunny conditions but prefers rich, moist areas in clearings or along the forest edge. It is a good pioneer species for woodland restoration projects due to its shade tolerance. When mature, the edges can be sharp, so plant strategically in the garden if pets or younger children share the space! Note that this species readily reseeds.
For larger stands, sow at a density of 10 KG/acre.
Growing Instructions
No pre-treatment required. Sow seed at 1/4 inch depth. Do not let seedling dry out while it is establishing.