How to Grow Canary Seed
Canary seed, which is also called annual canary grass, is a grass that is grown for grazing animals. The seeds of this grass are harvested and sold as bird seed, hence the name canary seed. According to Encyclopedia.com, 85 percent of the wold's canary seed production occurs in Canada, however, it is also grown in several northern U.S. states including North Dakota and Minnesota. You can plant canary seed any time the temperature rises above 37 degrees F, since it is a cool season grass. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Water the soil thoroughly prior to planting so that the soil is moist to a 3-inch depth.
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Plant the seeds into the soil at no deeper than a 2-inch depth. If planting at home, till the ground to a 2-inch depth and sprinkle the seed along the top. Gently rake the seeds into the soil just to cover them. If planting a large crop, use a seeder machine to plant the canary seed. According to the Government of Alberta, the proper seeding rate for large fields is 27 to 35 lbs. per acre.
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After the initial planting, water the seeds once per day until they germinate. Thereafter, water the plants deeply twice per week with 2 inches of water.
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Collect the seeds from the top of the grass when the seeds are visible and become hard to the touch. The feathery tops of the grass will be light beige in color when they are ready for harvest. Fully mature plants are ready approximately 110 days after planting.
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Tips & Warnings
If you intend to feed the seed to your birds, do not use chemical pesticides on the grass.
Wear a dust mask when collecting seeds, since the grass has tiny hair-like fibers which irritate the lungs when inhaled.
