Origin
Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller, commonly known as bluebunch wheatgrass, is a perennial grass species native to North America. It is commonly found in the western United States and Canada, ranging from Alaska to California and east to the Dakotas.
Common Names
Agropyron spicatum is commonly known as bluebunch wheatgrass, but it also goes by many other names, including basin wildrye, bunchgrass, bunch wheatgrass, and snake river wheatgrass.
Uses
Agropyron spicatum is an important forage grass that is highly prized for its nutritious value. It is an abundant source of carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals that make it an important feed for livestock and wildlife. It is also commonly used for erosion control and habitat restoration projects due to its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
General Appearance
Agropyron spicatum is a tall grass species that grows up to 2-4 feet in height. Its aerial stems are slender and erect, with narrow and elongated leaves that are flat, rough, and blue-grey in color. Its inflorescence consists of long branching spikes that bear numerous spikelets that contain the grass's seeds. The seeds are small and brown and are dispersed by wind and animals. The plant's roots are fibrous and can reach deep into the soil, providing the plant with stability and the ability to access water and nutrients from deep in the soil profile.
Light Requirements
Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller has been found to grow best in areas of full sunlight. It requires approximately 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day in order to thrive. In areas with less sunlight, the plant can still grow, but it may not reach its full potential and growth may be slower.
Temperature Requirements
Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller is adapted to grow in a wide range of temperatures. It can tolerate both hot and cold conditions, though it grows best in areas with a temperature range of 60-75 °F (15-24 °C). Additionally, this plant can also tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C).
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is nutrient-rich. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral, but it can also grow in alkaline soils. When the soil lacks in nutrients, the plant's growth will be stunted. The ideal pH range is between 6.5 and 7.5. This plant can tolerate a wide variety of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it grows best in soils that have a mix of these three soil types.
Cultivation Methods for Agropyron Spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller
Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller, commonly known as bluebunch wheatgrass, is a native, perennial cool-season bunchgrass found in North America. It is a hardy plant that thrives in a variety of soils, from sandy to clayey, and grows well in areas with an average annual rainfall of 15-30 inches or more.
The ideal time for planting bluebunch wheatgrass is in the fall, for it to take root before winter sets in. Alternatively, spring planting is also possible, as long as the soil has warmed up enough for germination to occur. It is important to note that the seeds should not be buried too deep, only a quarter-inch to half-inch below the soil surface.
Watering Needs for Agropyron Spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller
Watering bluebunch wheatgrass is often unnecessary, as it is adapted to dry regions with infrequent rainfall. However, during prolonged dry spells or drought periods, it may be necessary to provide water to maintain the plant's health. It is important not to overwater, which can lead to root rot and other issues. The best way to water bluebunch wheatgrass is to do so deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization for Agropyron Spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller
Agropyron spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller is a low-maintenance plant that typically does not require fertilization. However, if the soil is nutrient-deficient, applying a balanced fertilizer can help improve plant growth and health. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring or late fall, and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning for Agropyron Spicatum (Pursh) Scribn. & J.G. Sm. var. inerme (Scribn. & J.G. Sm.) Heller
Pruning or trimming is not necessary for bluebunch wheatgrass, as it is a self-sowing plant that reproduces through seed dispersal. However, if the plant appears to have become too dense and overgrown, mowing or trimming can be done in mid-spring, before new growth emerges. It is important to use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant and to remove no more than one-third of the plant's total height.
Propagation of Agropyron spicatum var. inerme
Agropyron spicatum var. inerme, commonly known as bluebunch wheatgrass, can be propagated through different methods. These include:
Seed Propagation
The recommended method for propagating Agropyron spicatum var. inerme is through seed. The seeds of this plant require pre-chilling before planting to break dormancy. This means that the seeds need to be exposed to a cold period before planting. This can be done by placing the seeds in a plastic bag with moist peat moss and storing them in a refrigerator for 30-60 days. Once the seeds have been pre-chilled, they can be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a pot or directly in the ground. The seeds should be kept moist until they germinate, which can take 14-21 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Agropyron spicatum var. inerme can also be propagated through vegetative means, such as division or transplanting. Division is the process of separating an established plant into smaller parts, each with its own roots and shoots. This method is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Transplanting involves moving an established plant from one location to another. This method is best done during the plant's dormant period in the fall. Both methods require care to ensure that the plant's roots are not damaged during the process.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to provide optimal growing conditions to ensure the success of Agropyron spicatum var. inerme. This plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is important to keep the soil moist during the plant's establishment period.
Disease Management
Agropyron spicatum is relatively resistant to many diseases. However, certain fungal diseases can still affect the plant, such as stem rust (Puccinia graminis) and leaf rust (Puccinia recondita). Stem rust is more likely to occur in wet conditions, while leaf rust can occur in both wet and dry conditions.
To manage these diseases, it is important to remove any infected plant material and destroy it promptly. Use of fungicides may also be effective to prevent further spread of the disease. Additionally, planting disease-resistant varieties of Agropyron spicatum may help prevent infection.
Pest Management
Agropyron spicatum is also relatively resistant to pests. However, certain insects can still affect the plant, such as aphids and grasshoppers. Aphids can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunting, while grasshoppers can chew on the leaves and stems.
To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and control any outbreaks promptly. Use of insecticides may be effective to prevent further damage. Additionally, maintaining healthy soil and providing adequate water and nutrients can help the plant resist pest infestations.
