How to Plant Rye for Deer

Rye is a cereal grain used for human consumption, but rye grass is often planted as a food plot for deer. Along with other forage, deer will eat rye grass while it's actively growing in the spring and fall. Rye grass is a cool season annual or perennial that is high in protein and has a long growing season. However, growing the annual rye grass gives you more options for food plots in the future.

Rake
Seeder

Instructions

- 1
  Select an area to plant your food plot. Rye needs full sun and well-drained soil to grow well. Purdue University suggests planting food plots on 1/2-acre lots to ensure other animals use them besides just deer.
- 2
  Remove all the weeds and large rocks from the soil with a rake.
- 3
  Broadcast the seed at a rate of 56 lbs. of seed per 1/2 acre. Sprinkle the seed evenly with your hands or with a seeder.
- 4
  Cover the seed with a 1/4 inch of soil.
- 5
  Water the seeds well for five minutes. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.

What Time of the Year to Grow Grass?

When Is the Best Time to Plant Grass Seeds?

Growing Grass