Description

Canada Wild Rye (Elymus canadensis) is a native species that some may frown upon because its long awned seed heads can get stuck in pet fur and clothing (those same long awns help screw it down into the soil so that it won’t blow away before or after germination). However, with a little foresight this can be a wonderful plant to use in regenerative landscapes. It is a pioneer species, establishing quickly on bare soil, then peaking and gradually stepping back for other plants after only 2 or 3 seasons. This means you can get groundcover before invasives move in, help prevent soil erosion and have it act as a cover crop while other species get established without it becoming invasive either. You don’t need much – try seeding at a rate of 1 lb per acre to achieve desired results. This combined with the relatively short window that the ripened seed heads are in their “sticky” phase, reduces the possibility of potential hitchhikers. One can further reduce this by just walking your dog somewhere else during seed ripening. In no time at all, seeds will drop and be eaten by wildlife, and you can resume your walks in the area. Wild Rye is also an attractive plant for fall and winter planters as the curled tail like seed heads and dried out golden stalks make nice features against a frosty or snowy backdrop. This species is an independent child so no need to baby it. It enjoys full sun and low watering so you can just admire it for the plant that it is.