Canada Wild Rye (Elymus canadensis)

Difficulty: ⭐☆☆☆☆
(Very easy — seed heads are large, visible, and simple to harvest)

Seed Collection Time:

Mid to late summer — typically July through August

Signs Seeds are Ready:

• Seed heads dry from green to golden tan

• Long, arching awns appear brittle and wiry

• Seeds (grains) become firm and full, detaching easily with a gentle pull

• Spikelets begin to shatter and fall naturally

Tip: Collect before heavy winds or storms to avoid losing seed to shattering.

Seed Collection Steps:

1. Clip mature seed heads into a paper bag or bucket

2. Allow to air-dry for 3–5 days in a cool, dry space

3. Strip seeds from stems by hand or gently crush between gloved hands

4. Use screens or winnowing to clean away awns and chaff

Note: Awns can be prickly — gloves recommended during cleaning.

Germination Tips:

• No dormancy — seed germinates well without treatment

• Sow in late fall (dormant seeding) or early spring

• Germinates in 7–14 days under moist, cool conditions

Note: Often used as a nurse grass to protect slower-growing natives in seed mixes.