Italian Ryegrass Seed

Italian ryegrass is a reliable nitrogen lifting green manure that takes up nitrogen from the soil and releases it slowly back into the ground once it is dug in. This process improves both soil fertility and soil structure, creating better growing conditions for future crops.

Sow Italian ryegrass between March and October. It grows well in most soil types and will tolerate light shade, although it thrives best in full sun. It is also effective at protecting bare soil from erosion and is an excellent choice for overwintering green manure. Dig it into the soil before flowering while the stems are soft.

Italian ryegrass can be grown as a long term green manure for up to two years. If leaving in place for this length of time, it should be cut back during the growing season to stop it from producing seed in its second year.

How to sow

Prepare the soil by digging it over and removing weeds. Firm the soil by treading it lightly, then broadcast the seed evenly. Rake over the surface and water well. During dry periods, additional watering may be required.

How to dig in

Chop the green manure into small pieces using a spade, then turn it into the top 10 to 12cm of soil. Alternatively, cut it down and leave the clippings on the soil surface, covering them to exclude light using cardboard and grass cuttings or a biodegradable ground cover. Leave for at least six weeks, allowing the green manure to break down and be worked into the soil naturally by earthworms.