Overview
Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve is a species of grass that is commonly known as crested wheatgrass. It is widespread across North America, Europe, and Asia, and it is commonly used in reclamation, erosion control, and forage production.
Appearance
Crested wheatgrass is a cool-season, perennial bunchgrass that typically grows 30-90 cm tall. It has a fibrous root system that can spread up to 5 meters deep. The leaves are flat and narrow, and they can grow up to 30 cm long and 5 mm wide. The inflorescence is a dense spike, 5-15 cm long, with many spikelets that contain several flowers. The spikelets are usually green or purple, turning golden or tan when they mature. The plant has a dense basal sheath that forms a crown at the base of the plant.
Common Names
Crested wheatgrass is commonly known by several names including crested wheatgrass, wheatgrass, and Agropyron cristatum.
Uses
Crested wheatgrass is primarily used for soil stabilization and land restoration. Due to its deep root system, it is capable of stabilizing soil and preventing erosion, which makes it an excellent choice for disturbed areas such as construction sites, mine tailings, and road cuts. It is also an excellent forage for livestock and can be used to feed cattle, sheep, and horses. Additionally, crested wheatgrass is often used for revegetation in grassland and prairie restoration projects.
Light Requirements
Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve prefers full sunlight and typically grows in areas with moderate to high light intensity. The plant can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to stunted growth and reduced vigor.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve growth is between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit but cannot survive in frosty temperatures. In hot temperatures, the plant may experience wilting and drought stress.
Soil Requirements
Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.5. The plant can also grow in sandy soils but may require extra watering. The presence of abundant organic matter in the soil can help improve the plant's growth and health.
Cultivation Methods
Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve, commonly referred to as the desert needlegrass, is a hardy grass that can grow up to 3 feet in height. This plant thrives in dry and arid climates and is commonly found in areas such as grasslands, deserts, and plains. When cultivating Agropyron cristatum, it is crucial to start with well-draining soil and ensure that the plant is exposed to plenty of sunlight. A well-draining soil is necessary to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Watering Needs
Agropyron cristatum does not require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering this plant can cause more harm than good. When watering, it is essential to water the plant deeply to encourage deep root growth. Deep root growth enables the plant to access water and nutrients deep within the soil. It is important to allow the soil to dry between watering to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Agropyron cristatum is adaptable to poor soil conditions and does not require frequent fertilization. However, a yearly application of a balanced fertilizer can help to improve growth and overall health. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer as it will gradually release nutrients over time.
Pruning
Agropyron cristatum does not require pruning. However, if dead or damaged foliage is present, it should be removed to prevent the spread of fungal diseases. Additionally, the plant can be mowed to remove dead or damaged foliage and encourage a more compact growth habit.
Propagation of Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve
Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve, commonly known as the fragile wheatgrass, is a valuable plant for pasture and soil stabilization. The plant is propagated through various methods depending on the intended use and scale of production. Here are some of the propagation methods:
Seed propagation
The most effective way to propagate fragile wheatgrass is through seed propagation. The plant produces numerous seeds, which have a high germination rate. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors and later transplanted. Seed propagation is best done during the fall or early spring when the temperature is cool and moist.
Vegetative propagation
Fragile wheatgrass can also be propagated vegetatively through rhizomes. The rhizomes are cut into small sections that contain both roots and shoots. These sections are then planted in the soil, and new plants will grow from the rooted sections. Vegetative propagation is mostly used for large-scale production, such as reclamation of degraded lands.
Division
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. It is mostly used to rejuvenate old and overgrown plants, and it is done during the growing season in the spring or fall.
In conclusion, Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve can be propagated through seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and division. The choice of propagation method depends on the intended use and scale of production.
Disease Management
The Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve plant is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Stem Rust: It is caused by the fungus Puccinia graminis and is characterized by brown or black raised spots on the stem. To manage this disease, it is crucial to remove infected parts of the plant and use fungicides.
- Leaf Rust: This disease is caused by the fungus Puccinia recondita and affects the leaves of the plant. The symptoms include orange or yellow spots on the leaf, which can lead to defoliation. Management strategies involve the removal of infected parts of the plant and application of fungicides.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by various fungi such as Pythium and Phytophthora. The symptoms of this disease include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, it is essential to avoid overwatering and the use of fungicides.
Pest Management
The Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. ssp. fragile (Roth) A. Löve plant is also susceptible to various pests such as:
- Cereal Leaf Beetle: The cereal leaf beetle feeds on the leaves of the plant and can cause severe damage. To control these pests, it is essential to use insecticides or biological control such as natural predators.
- Wireworms: Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles and feed on the roots of the plant. The symptoms include wilting and stunted growth. Soil insecticides can be used as a management strategy.
- Russian Wheat Aphid: The Russian wheat aphid feeds on the leaves of the plant and can lead to stunted growth and death. The use of insecticides or natural predators such as ladybugs can be helpful in controlling these pests.
