Reproduction

Rye, like all grasses, has two methods of reproduction. The first method is asexual and the second is sexual. Asexually, they reproduce with a growth point in the roots called a shoot, or tiller. It branches off from the original plant and forms an exact copy of the original parent. The other way that rye can reproduce is by sexual reproduction. They have special flowers that form called spikelets. These spikelets produce spores which are blown by the wind and pollinate other spikelets. Seeds then form and if the natural process is allowed to proceed, drop to the ground.

There are many advantages and disadvantages of sexual and asexual reproduction. The main advantage of asex is that it is much faster and more efficient than sexual reproduction. Many copies can be formed in a short period of time, allowing the rye to overwhelm competition. The biggest advantage of sexual reproduction is that it allows for genetic diversity. Genetic diversity is a huge advantage when an organism's habitat is in a period of flux. Diversity lets the organism change with the rest of nature.

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