Plant Rye Grass
Rye grass is often used in northern climates due to its ability to tolerate cool temperatures, and is typically planted when other, more permanent grasses have died out for the year. Unlike other types of grass which often go dormant at the first frost, rye grass can stay green and lush during the winter months. Knowing how to plant rye grass is an effective way to keep your lawn looking healthy all year long.
Steps
- Choose the right time of year.
- For best results, rye grass should be planted in the late fall. Wait until your permanent lawn has begun to go dormant to ensure that the rye grass does not have to compete with it for nutrients, growing space, and sunlight.
- Prepare the permanent lawn.
- Before you plant the rye grass, you must ensure that the permanent grass has been adequately cared for. Start by using a lawn mower to trim the grass to its lowest setting. In addition, avoid watering the grass for at least 10 days prior to planting the rye grass to provide beneficial results.
- Plant the rye grass.
- Rye grass is easily planted using a spreader. Depending on the size of your lawn, you may want to use either a push spreader or a hand spreader. Hand spreaders are typically used for small lawns that have large amounts of detail, while push spreaders may be best for larger lawns with greater amounts of open area.
- Water the rye grass.
- You should water the rye grass the same day that it is planted. Unlike other types of grass, it is quite difficult to water rye grass too much. Rather, it does well you give it large amounts of water.
- You will also need to water the rye grass at least once a week for the remainder of the growing season.
- Care for the rye grass.
- Like other types of grass, you must mow the rye grass at least once a week during its growing season. Mowing the grass using the tallest setting on the mower provides the best results with this type of grass.
- Rye grass will reach the end of its growing season around the end of May. At this point, avoid watering the grass for a few days. This will allow the rye grass to become dormant, and will aid in bringing about the permanent, summer grass.
Tips
- Rye grass is not perennial, and therefore must be planted each year.
Warnings
- As rye grass often grows in thin clusters, mowing it too short can make your lawn look uneven. Experiment with different lawn settings to find the look you like best.
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