Ohio Seed Improvement Association

AROOSTOOK (Secale cereale) was released by the USDA Soil Conservation service, New York State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University and the Maine Department of Agriculture, Division of Plant Industries, in November, 1981. Aroostook produces more fall growth when seeded late in the fall, more spring growth and exhibited greater winter hardiness than other varieties in comparison trials. The number of leaves per plant, were greater for Aroostook Rye than for Balboa, after 220 and 240 growing degree days, with a base temperature of 0^oC. Growth habit is primarily winter, with a very small percentage of mixed spring or intermediate types. Aroostook is considered to be a very tall, early variety and is susceptible to leaf rust and ergot.