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Canada Wild Rye Seeds - Elymus canadensis

Heirloom - Non-GMO - Reliable Germination

$4.99 USD
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Size: 1 Packet

What Makes Survival Garden Seeds Different - non-GMO heirloom seeds

Canada Wild Rye is a cool-season grass that serves multiple purposes in the survival garden:  erosion control, wildlife habitat, and edible grain production, all in one hardy North American native grass! This cool-season perennial grass develops graceful arching stems topped with feathery seed heads that create natural movement in the landscape. It's quick establishing to stabilize soil on slopes and problem areas.

Growing 3-5 feet tall with deep roots that prevent erosion and build topsoil, Canada Wild Rye adapts to almost any soil type from clay to sand. Native across zones 3-9, this versatile grass establishes quickly and provides year-round structure to naturalized areas. The edible seeds can be harvested as a wild cereal grain, offering food security value for humans alongside its benefits to the local ecosystem.

Build sustainable landscapes, control erosion on challenging sites, or add a dual-purpose native to your homestead with Canada Wild Rye's proven reliability. This productive grass creates habitat for butterfly and moth larvae while producing harvestable grain, making it an essential component of both wildlife gardens and survival plantings.

  • Multi-purpose ornamental grass provides beauty, erosion control, wildlife habitat, and edible grain production in one hardy native plant
  • Graceful 3-5 foot arching stems with feathery seed heads create natural movement in the garden while the deep roots stabilize soil on slopes and problem areas
  • Critical habitat plant; wild rye is a larval host for native butterflies and moths and provides cover and nesting material for songbirds and other small wildlife
  • Extremely adaptable grass for growing in challenging conditions; very quick to establish; thrives in clay, loam, or sandy soils from full sun to partial shade across zones 3-9
  • Cold stratification improves germination success for this cool-season grass; consult seed packet's growing guide with tips for establishment and seed harvesting techniques

Heirloom Native Plant Seeds

All of our seeds are open-pollinated, non-GMO, heirloom varieties with tested germination rates

Specifications

  • Botanical Name
    Elymus canadensis
  • Seasonality
    Perennial
  • Planting Zones
    3-8
  • Light
    Full sun to partial shade
  • Soil Temp for Germination
    60-70 Degrees F
  • Germination Time
    14-21 Days
  • Planting Depth
    Surface
  • Plant Size
    3-5 feet tall, 12-18 inch spread
  • Growing Instructions
    Best sown directly outdoors in early spring or fall. Cold stratify 30 days by mixing with moist sand and refrigerating. Surface sow; light is required for germination. Keep moist until sprouted, then thin to 12-18 inches.
  • Seed Saving Instructions
    Allow seeds to fully ripen and dry on plant. Collect by gently shaking or rubbing seed heads. Dry for 2-3 weeks, then store in a cool, dry place for up to 5 years.
  • Seed Count (approximate)
    342 to 400

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Support Native Habitats

  • Supports Local Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Native plants are uniquely adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, forming the foundation of healthy ecosystems. They provide essential food, shelter, and breeding grounds for a wide array of native wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, birds, and beneficial insects, which helps to maintain and enhance local biodiversity.
  • Requires Less Maintenance and Resources: Once established, native plants typically require significantly less water, fertilizer, and pesticides compared to non-native ornamental plants. Their deep root systems improve soil health and water penetration, reducing runoff and erosion, and their natural resistance to local pests and diseases minimizes the need for chemical interventions, saving time, money, and environmental impact.
  • Contributes to Climate Resiliency and Conservation: By supporting a healthy native plant community, you are helping to create more resilient landscapes that can better withstand the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events. Growing native plants also plays a crucial role in conserving local plant genetics, preserving the natural heritage of a region, and providing critical habitat corridors for wildlife facing habitat loss.
  • Detailed Growing Information: Paper seed packets include clear planting instructions, germination tips, and seed-saving info, great for beginner or experienced gardeners growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, or native plants.
  • Trusted USA Seed Company: Family-owned business providing heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds; always fresh, untreated, rigorously tested, and expertly packed for long-term storage and gardening success across all experience levels

Why Choose Survival Garden Seeds

At Survival Garden Seeds, we believe in preparing today for tomorrow’s peace of mind. That’s why we offer only heirloom, non-GMO, and untreated seeds you can trust to nourish your family and support a sustainable lifestyle. As a family-owned American company, we’re committed to providing seeds that grow strong and true—helping you cultivate health, resilience, and beauty in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are your seeds heirloom and open-pollinated?

Yes. All of our seeds are heirloom, open-pollinated varieties, which means they can produce seeds that grow true to type and are suitable for seed saving.

You can learn more about open-pollinated, heirloom, and non-GMO seeds in our Survival Garden Training blog.

Are your seeds non-GMO?

Yes. All Survival Garden Seeds are 100% non-GMO. Our seeds are open-pollinated heirloom varieties and are never genetically modified.

Are your seeds treated with chemicals?

No. Our seeds are completely untreated and free from chemical coatings, fungicides, or synthetic treatments.

How do I know my seeds are fresh?

Every seed packet includes a packed-for date, and we germination-test each seed lot before packaging to ensure high viability.

What is the shelf life of your seeds?

Most seeds remain viable for 3 to 5 years or longer when stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.

In what USDA hardiness zones can I grow your seeds?

Our varieties are selected to grow successfully across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. Each packet includes variety-specific planting guidance and germination tips.