x Triticosecale

Triticale is an artificial hybrid of wheat (Triticum spp.) and rye (Secale cereal). Several species of wheat have been used to create different hybrids, but they are similar in their garden performance. It is a deep-rooted, annual grass and a member of the grass family (Poaceae). The genus name is a portmanteau of its parental genera. Triticale has the disease tolerance of rye and the hardiness of winter wheat, but the drought tolerance is greater than that of either parent. Although the grain is edible, most triticale is grown for forage or as a cover crop.

Triticale grows in average to poor garden loam or clay soil, as long as it is free-draining. Full sun will give better results than partial shade. Sow in the fall for a winter cover crop. Plant in drills about ¾ to 1½ inches deep or broadcast (at 50 pounds per acre). The optimum harvest stage for forage is just before flower spike emergence.

As a cover crop, triticale is very good at weed suppression, growing in low fertility soils, and growing quickly. It is rated as having excellent erosion control and grazing quality. It is an excellent nitrogen scavenger. It is rated as good at fighting compaction and tolerating shade.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: In high-fertility soils, lodging can be a problem. Triticale is highly susceptible to ergot. Triticale is susceptible to black cutworm and fall armyworm and the P. penetrans lesion nematode.