Rye

Rye is a grain that grows on tall grass-like plants. It looks a lot like wheat but has a darker color and stronger taste. Rye is very tough and can grow in cold places. Many people love rye bread because of its hearty flavor.

How Rye Grows

Rye can grow where other grains would not survive. It handles cold winters and poor soil very well. The plants grow tall and sway in the wind. Farmers in Russia, Poland, and Germany grow a lot of rye. It is often planted in the fall and harvested in the summer.

Rye Bread and Food

Dark rye bread is popular in many parts of Europe. It has a rich, slightly sour taste and lasts a long time without going stale. Rye flour is also used to make crackers. Some people use rye to make a hot breakfast cereal. Rye bread is often topped with cheese or meat for a tasty sandwich.

Fun Facts

• Rye can grow in soil where wheat cannot survive.
• Pumpernickel is a kind of very dark rye bread from Germany.
• Rye was once thought of as a weed in wheat fields.

Did You Know?

Rye plants can grow over six feet tall, which is taller than most adults.