In many areas the ending of fall and the beginning of winter is a good time to begin thoughts of planting rye grass. Rye grass comes in annual and perennial types and will give you a wonderful green lawn that will grow fast and will be alive while other grasses are dormant. Rye grass is one of the early grasses in the spring and can also be a temporary ground cover or can be used to supplement other grasses.

Many grass varieties are difficult and ornery to grow. However, planting rye grass is easy to do. Seed the soil and water it. That's about all there is to growing rye grass. It can be hand sown, applied using spreaders, or by broadcasting the seed, all with little trouble. Rye grass grows best the more contact it has with the soil, so for best results prepare ahead a little.

In the case of a considerable amount of undesirable ground cover, the growth should be closely cropped, burned off, or treated with herbicides. Where weed killers are employed, it is extremely important to follow directions for use scrupulously and to note both how long you must wait before you can plant again and which specific plants will not thrive. Remember to check with local authorities as to whether burning is allowed in the area generally and to be certain the area has not been red flagged due to drought or fire-risk conditions.

It is best when planting rye grass or anything else to test the soil first and correct pH and nutrients before sowing the seed. The plan should be testing, fertilizing and watering, then sowing the seeds. Next, water again, unless nature cooperates with timely rain showers. Continue to water for best germination and rye grass will produce a lush and vivid green turf in short order.

Rye grass takes hold in the soil quickly and thus is ideally suited for planting to prevent soil erosion. If you plant the annual variety of rye grass it can die off when desired for future crop-planting. It also can be used to help control crop infestations and is especially effective against nematodes. Rye grass breaks down simply and quickly, resulting in rapid nutrient recycling in the soils, thus improving land value.

Planting rye grass may be done to boost the appearance and coverage of other grasses, but in some regions and applications may be used alone. If you are unsure whether an annual species of rye grass or one of the more hardy perennial types is best for your needs, talk with your seed and feed dealer, garden supply store, or contact your county agricultural agent for advice. Many of these will have free online reference guides to grass selection and the actual techniques for planting and care. Think rye grass for simplicity, and for a green winter!