Westerwolds Ryegrass

Westerwolds ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum var. westerwoldicum) is a fast-growing annual grass native to temperate Europe, selected for its exceptionally rapid establishment compared to other Italian ryegrasses. It produces dense, lush green biomass and is primarily grown as a green manure, cover crop, or forage grass. It thrives in full sun and tolerates a wide range of soils, making it an easy and reliable choice for improving soil structure and suppressing weeds between main crops.

Growing

Direct-sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed when soil temperature reaches 5 °C. Broadcast or drill seed at a depth of 1 cm, then lightly rake in and firm the surface to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Aim for a dense, even cover by sowing generously across the bed at roughly 15 cm row spacing if drilled, or broadcast at 3–4 g per m². No indoor starting is required or recommended.

Care

Water after sowing to aid germination, then allow established plants to rely on natural rainfall wherever possible. No feeding is necessary when used as a green manure — the crop will fix and recycle nutrients naturally. If allowed to grow tall, mow or cut back before flowering to prevent self-seeding and maximise biomass return to the soil.

Harvest

For green manure use, cut or incorporate the crop into the soil once it reaches 20–30 cm in height but before seed heads fully develop. Dig or rotovate the entire plant mass into the top 15–20 cm of soil and allow two to three weeks for decomposition before sowing or planting the next crop. For forage, cut when plants are at full leaf development and visibly lush.

In the kitchen

Westerwolds ryegrass is not grown for human consumption. It is used as animal fodder, a cover crop, or a green manure to enrich the soil. Livestock including cattle and sheep readily graze or consume harvested forage.

Storing

Store unused seed in a cool, dry, dark location in an airtight container. Correctly stored seed remains viable for two to three years. Freshly cut green material should be used immediately as fodder or incorporated into soil without delay.