Question
Hello there, I am looking for an alternative to winter rye overseeding for my bermuda lawns. Actually I have allergies to the rye and really need advice here. I would like a grass that   is an annual winter greass like rye so that the bermuda will come back when not dormant. How about Fescue or some sort of Blue or winter grass seed?
I am in the central valley of California, the winters typically have mornings with frost and the summers have 95-110 F temps regularly.
Any advise it welcome!
Cheers
Craig

Answer
Craig:

I am afraid that there may be nothing to replace annual ryegrass.  Have you tried perennial ryegrass for your allergy?

The only possible alternative may be winter grains, like wheat, oats, barley and rye (not grass.)  These would have to be mowed very high in order for them to maintain color.  Barley may be more like grass than the others.

However, they will remain active and growing well into Bermuda growing season or have to be sprayed to kill before soil temps reach 80 deg F.  All winter annual covers will compete with summer grasses in early spring and retard growth.

Sorry.  Best wishes.