Which cereal crop is typically grown as a winter crop in Alberta?

Cereal crops that are grown as winter crops are those that can withstand colder temperatures and often require a period of dormancy during the winter months. In Alberta, rye is particularly well-suited to these conditions.

Rye has a higher cold tolerance compared to other cereal crops, making it a robust option for winter planting. It can germinate in cooler soil temperatures and often requires less management in cold, harsh climates. The ability of rye to overwinter and resume growth in early spring contributes to its popularity as a winter cereal in regions like Alberta.

While barley, oats, and wheat may also be grown in Alberta, they are typically planted in the spring and harvested in the summer, as they do not possess the same level of cold tolerance or ability to survive the winter conditions that rye does. Therefore, rye stands out as the correct choice for a winter crop in Alberta.