Description
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc., also known as Wild Bentgrass, is a perennial plant that typically grows up to 12-24 inches in height. It belongs to the family Poaceae and is native to western North America, including Canada and the United States.
General Appearance
The plant has erect culms that are slender and wiry. The leaves are narrow and flat, measuring 3 to 10 cm in length and up to 3 mm in width. The inflorescence is a narrow and dense panicle, measuring up to 10 cm in length. The spikelets are small and flat, with a length of up to 2 mm.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Wild Bentgrass due to its similarity to other Agrostis species that are used for golf course turf. Other common names include Redtop Bentgrass and Spreading Bentgrass.
Uses
The plant is primarily used for its superior forage quality for livestock grazing. It is also used as a lawn grass and is often used as a seed mix component for erosion control. In addition, it is used for ecological restoration, especially in wetland and riparian areas.
Light Requirements
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade can cause it to become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. can grow in a variety of temperatures, but it prefers mild to warm temperatures. It can handle cold temperatures, but extreme cold can cause damage to the plant. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 15°C to 25°C.
Soil Requirements
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. prefers moderately fertile, well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. It doesn't grow well in heavy clay soils or soils with poor drainage. The plant can tolerate soils with low nutrient content, but applying a balanced fertilizer can improve its growth and health.
The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and result in stunted growth. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Cultivation Methods
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. is best grown in well-draining soil, preferably sandy or loamy soil. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate cold climates. It is commonly propagated through seeds, which can be sown directly into the soil in early spring.
While the plant is tolerant of drought conditions, it is best to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season. Watering in the morning or evening is recommended to avoid evaporation during the peak daytime heat.
Watering Needs
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. requires enough water to keep the soil consistently moist. However, it is essential to avoid over-watering, which may lead to root rot and other problems. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to allow for proper moisture retention. During the dry season, it may be necessary to provide additional watering to keep the plant healthy.
Fertilization
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. does not require extensive fertilization. It is recommended to provide the plant with a low-nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season, mainly if the soil is nutrient-poor. Over-fertilization may cause the plant to develop an excessively lush growth, which may weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to diseases.
Pruning
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. typically does not require pruning. However, it is recommended to remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent the spread of diseases. It is also advisable to remove any flower heads to prevent the self-seeding of the plant, which may lead to overcrowding in the garden.
Propagation of Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc.
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc., commonly referred to as spike bentgrass, is a cool-season perennial grass native to North America. It is often found in sandy or gravelly soils in both wet and dry areas, and is commonly used for erosion control and as a forage plant for livestock.
There are two main methods for propagating spike bentgrass: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating spike bentgrass and involves planting seeds in prepared soil. Before planting, the seeds should be cleaned and dried to remove any debris or moisture that may inhibit germination. The seedbed should be well-drained and free of weeds, with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0.
The best time to plant spike bentgrass seeds is in the early spring or fall, when soil temperatures are between 50°F and 65°F. The seeds should be sown at a rate of 2 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet and covered with a light layer of soil (no more than ¼ inch deep). It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of spike bentgrass involves using established plants to produce new plants. This method is often used for maintaining a specific variety or when seeds are not available.
The most common method of vegetative propagation is through division. This involves separating the roots and shoots of an established plant and replanting them in prepared soil. The best time to divide spike bentgrass plants is in the spring when new growth begins to emerge. The plant should be lifted carefully with a garden fork or spade and the roots and shoots separated. Each division should contain healthy roots and shoots and be replanted immediately in prepared soil.
Another method of vegetative propagation is through cuttings. This involves taking stem cuttings from an established plant and rooting them in prepared soil. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and be approximately 4 to 6 inches long. The leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting and the stem dipped in rooting hormone before it is planted in prepared soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until they have rooted, which typically takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Overall, both seed and vegetative propagation methods can be used to propagate Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the method chosen will depend on the desired outcome and available resources.
Disease Management
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf Rust: This disease causes orange pustules on the leaves, leading to weakening of the plant. To manage leaf rust, ensure proper air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be applied.
- Crown Rot: This is a soil-borne disease that causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Remove the infected plants and avoid planting grasses in the area for a few years.
- Pythium Blight: This is a fungal disease that causes brown patches on the foliage. Ensure proper drainage and avoid over-irrigation. Fungicides can also be used.
Pest Management
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. monolepis (Torr.) A.S. Hitchc. is also susceptible to pests, including:
- Cutworms: These pests cut off the seedlings at the base. Use collars around the plants and apply biological insecticides.
- Armyworms: These pests eat the foliage, causing severe damage. Use biological insecticides and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
- Thrips: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and mottled leaves. Use insecticidal soap and predatory mites to control their population.
