Annual Ryegrass

Ryegrass roots create a vast root system that improves the texture and the amount of organic matter in the soil structure. The population of earth worms and microbes increases, which takes care of most ryegrass surface residual matter during the growing season. Access to deeper soil also allows crops to mine nutrients previously trapped beneath compacted layers. Annual Ryegrass roots break through soil compaction to reach deep water and nutrients. It leaves improved soil structure and increased organic matter in its path. If planted in fall 6-8 weeks before the first killing frost, it will survive the winter and provide a green manure for spring. Later planting will help winter-kill if so desired.