Plant ergot free seed on land that has not been cropped to rye for at least 2 years. Rye's growth habit resembles wheat, but plants are usually taller, with longer, more slender, somewhat nodding spikes. Plants average in height from 4 to 5 feet. Rye has the most extensive root system of small grain crops. This makes it well suited for limiting nitrogen loss during winter months when leaching potential is greatest.
Rye is a long-day plant.
Flowering begins when day-length reaches 14 hours and temperatures average between 41 and 50 degrees. Once flowering begins vegetative growth stops. This means that plants can be killed at this point by mowing. Rye germinates if soil termperatures are above 34 degrees. Rye is harvested by direct combining before seed shattering occurs.