Origin and Common Names
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey is a grass species that is native to the western region of North America, ranging from Alaska to California and Hawaii. It is commonly referred to as Pacific bentgrass or coastal bentgrass.
General Appearance
This perennial grass species typically grows to be about 30-70 cm tall and forms dense mats due to its stoloniferous growth habit. Its leaves are narrow and long, measuring around 3-15 cm in length and less than 1 mm in width. They have a keeled shape and are usually hairy on both surfaces. The stems are slender, erect, and have multiple nodes that produce additional shoots.
Uses
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey is typically used for erosion control on slopes and along waterways due to its extensive root system and ability to stabilize soil. It is also used as a turfgrass for golf courses or parks in coastal areas. Additionally, some indigenous groups used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomach and urinary tract issues.
Light Requirements
The Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey typically requires plenty of sunlight to thrive. It can grow well in full sunlight or partial shade, but it is not recommended to grow it in complete darkness or in a dimly lit area. Thus, growing in bright light is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it grows best when the temperature is between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The plant can adapt to cold and harsh conditions, but it might not grow as well compared to an environment with optimal temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey grows best in well-drained soils with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be moderately fertile and not too rich in organic matter, but it should be rich in minerals and nutrients. Adequate soil moisture is essential, but care should be taken not to overwater it as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation of Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey, commonly known as Pacific bentgrass, is a cool-season perennial grass that is primarily found in coastal areas of California, Oregon, and Washington. Here are some tips on how to cultivate it:
- Planting: Pacific bentgrass can be propagated by seed or vegetatively by sod or sprigs. Plant in well-drained, fertile soil, and choose a location that receives full to partial sunlight.
- Plant density: Plant the seeds or sods around 3 to 8 inches apart to allow enough space for horizontal growth.
- Watering: Pacific bentgrass is drought-tolerant but still needs consistent moisture to thrive. Water it regularly, especially during dry and hot weather, aiming for at least 1 inch of water per week.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the grass during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The recommended rate is around 2-4 pounds N per 1000 square feet per year.
- Pruning: Regular mowing is necessary to keep the grass at a healthy height. Mow at least once a week during its peak growing season. Pacific bentgrass can be cut as low as 0.5" in height.
- Disease and pest control: Pacific bentgrass might be susceptible to diseases such as dollar spot, rust, or necrotic ring spot. Keep the area clean, avoid overwatering, and apply a fungicide if necessary. Pest control is also important to prevent damage by insects such as billbugs and cinch bugs.
With proper care and regular maintenance, Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey can create a lush, green lawn in coastal areas.
Propagation of Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey
The Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey is propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The plant can be propagated through seed germination. The seeds need to be collected from the parent plant via the process of seed harvesting. Once collected, the seeds need to be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool and dry place. The stratification of the seeds, i.e., inducing seed dormancy by simulating winter conditions, is necessary before sowing them into the soil during the spring season. The seeds take around two weeks to germinate, after which the young plants can be transplanted into pots or directly into the soil.
Asexual Propagation
The Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey can also be propagated asexually through vegetative means by using stem cuttings. The stem cuttings need to be taken from healthy and mature plants. The cuttings should have a minimum of three nodes and should be 8-10 cm in length. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and a rooting hormone should be applied to the base of the cutting. The cutting should then be planted in a rooting medium consisting of equal parts of peat and sand. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted into the soil after 2-3 weeks and provided the proper care to ensure their development into healthy plants.
Disease Management
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey, commonly known as Pacific bentgrass, is generally resistant to diseases. However, some common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum cereale and can cause leaf spots, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage anthracnose, use well-draining soil and adequate airflow to prevent high humidity, as well as applying fungicides in severe cases.
- Brown patch: This disease is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani and appears as circular patches of browned grass. To manage brown patch, avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage, maintain adequate mowing practices, and apply fungicides.
- Fusarium patch: This disease is caused by the fungus Microdochium nivale and can cause irregular patches of light brown or yellowish grass. To manage this disease, maintain proper drainage and mowing practices, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Agrostis exarata Trin. var. pacifica Vasey is generally resistant to pests, but some pests that can infest the plant include:
- Sod webworms: These are the larvae of lawn moths that eat grass blades and cause visible damage, such as brown patches. To manage sod webworms, apply microbial insecticides or natural predators like parasitic nematodes.
- Chinch bugs: These insects can cause extensive damage to grass blades and create brown patches. To manage chinch bugs, use insecticidal soap, improve soil fertility, and maintain proper mowing practices.
- Grubs: These are beetle larvae that feed on grass roots, causing yellowing and thinning of the lawn. To manage grubs, apply nematodes or insecticides, maintain well-draining soil, and aerate the lawn regularly.
