How to Grow Wild Rice
Zizania aquatica
Wild rice is an aquatic annual that requires shallow standing water to grow. Sow seed in water-filled containers or at the margins of a pond from late spring once water temperatures exceed 12C. Plants grow vigorously through summer, reaching 1.5-2 m, and produce grain-bearing panicles in late summer. Harvest grain when husks darken and seeds strip easily from the stem. Multiple harvesting passes give the best yield as grain ripens unevenly. Dry grain well before storing. Plants die back after first frost. Save some seed for the following season.
When to Start
Sow indoors 6 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 12°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light feeder. Incorporate well-rotted compost into the growing medium before planting. Additional feeding is rarely needed — wild rice is adapted to low-nutrient aquatic environments.
- Wild rice is an aquatic annual grass native to North America. It requires shallow standing water — ponds, bog gardens, or large containers of water work well. The nutty, chewy grain is highly nutritious and a valued food crop of Indigenous North American peoples. Plants grow tall and make a striking ornamental feature alongside edible grain.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 12°C+
- Germination temperature
- 12–22°C
- Direct sow
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 60 cm |
| Mature height | 200 cm |
| Mature spread | 30 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 12°C |
| Germination temperature | 12–22°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Wild Rice?
- Plant Wild Rice 30cm apart with 60cm between rows.
- Is Wild Rice frost hardy?
- Wild Rice is classified as Half Hardy.
