Virginia Wild Rye (Elymus virginicus)

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

Seed Collection Time:

Late summer to early fall — typically August through September

Signs Seeds are Ready:

• Seed heads dry from green to tan and turn brittle

• Awns remain upright or curve slightly as seed matures

• Seeds (grains) inside spikelets become firm, plump, and detach easily

• Heads shatter or drop seed when shaken or rubbed

Tip: Compare to Canada Wild Rye — Virginia is shorter, more upright, and awns are shorter and less bristly.

Seed Collection Steps:

1. Cut mature seed heads from stalks into a paper bag or bucket

2. Air-dry for 3–5 days in a shaded, ventilated area

3. Strip seeds by hand or gently crush heads to loosen grains

4. Use screens or light winnowing to remove chaff and awns

Note: Harvest before heads shatter in windy conditions — check frequently during ripening.

Germination Tips:

• Germinates readily without treatment, but cold stratification for 30–60 days may improve success

• Fall sowing is effective for natural stratification

• Germination occurs in 1–2 weeks under cool, moist conditions

Note: Excellent for nurse grass mixes and erosion-prone areas