- 1). Buy cereal rye seeds. A good rule of thumb is to purchase 3/4 to 1 lb. per 100 square feet of garden soil. Rye is usually inexpensive, often costing less than one dollar per pound of seed. Because it is so affordable, it is a good idea to buy more seed than you think you will need, just in case you run out.
- 2). Till the garden soil. Set the tiller depth to "Low" or "Medium," and till the area in which you will plant the rye.
- 3). Spread the seed. Use a grass seed or fertilizer type spreader, or simply toss it with your hands. Try to cover the soil evenly. You do not need to plant it in rows; instead, spread it as you would grass seed in your lawn. Remember to use at least 3/4 lb. of seed per 100 square feet of garden space.
- 4). Cover the seed with a thin layer of soil. Rake the seeded area gently with a garden rake until you have about 1/8 inch of soil covering the seeds.
- 5). Water the area with a garden hose or sprinkler. Rye is a hardy plant, but you should water it regularly until it really begins growing. You may want to add some fertilizer to the soil about once a month to ensure maximum growth.
- 6). Harvest or cut the rye about a week before you plant your spring plants. If you are not using the rye for grain, simply till it into the soil for added nutrients.
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