Types of Rye

The hybrid varieties normally produces a yield between 15 and 30 percent more than conventional varieties. Seed material of hybrid varieties is more expensive than the conventional ones.

Some hybrid varieties are more susceptible to infections by ergot than conventional varieties. In order to limit infections, some hybrid varieties are sold as a blend with 10 % conventional rye. This can help the ergot problem. Several of the new and high yielding varieties have a much larger production of pollen, and this also reduces the danger for ergot infection.

The high cost of hybrid varieties makes them interesting on land that has a high production potential. As a rule, the hybrids can be interesting where the potential for yield is above 5 mt/ha.

Rye yields vary a lot depending on soil, climate, variety and fertilizer use. In countries like Ukraine and Russia the average ranges from 2,5 - 3,5 mt/ha, and in the Nordic countries yields up to 6,5 mt/ha is normal.