Origin:
Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell, commonly known as bushy bluestem, is a species of perennial grass native to North America. It is found throughout the eastern and central regions of the United States, ranging from Texas to Florida and up to Maine.
Common Names:
Bushy bluestem is also known by several other common names, including broom beard grass, bushy beard grass, and bushy bunchgrass.
Uses:
Bushy bluestem has multiple uses, including being used as a forage crop for livestock, erosion control, and soil stabilization. Additionally, it is commonly used for its ornamental value in landscaping, as its fluffy seed heads provide an attractive visual element in gardens and naturalized areas.
General Appearance:
Bushy bluestem typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet tall, with stems that are erect and leafy. Its leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 2 feet in length, and up to 0.4 inches wide. The grass produces fluffy seed heads that range in color from tan to purple, which can appear from late summer through to fall. The seed heads of bushy bluestem can produce small seeds that are viable for up to 5 years, and can be transported by wind. Overall, bushy bluestem is an attractive, hardy grass species that has a range of practical uses, making it a valuable addition to many landscapes.
Light Requirements
Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Inadequate light can result in elongated stems, reduced vigor, and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to North America and can grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers warm temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C) and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C). High temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can stunt the growth of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5-7.5, and the plant can tolerate mildly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. The plant is tolerant of drought and can grow in infertile, dry soils, but it prefers moist, loamy soils for optimal growth.
Cultivation
Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell is a versatile plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and moisture conditions. It is most commonly found in wetland areas, but it can also thrive in drier soils.
The plant appreciates full sun exposure and requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. It is a perennial grass that grows up to six feet tall and spreads through underground rhizomes.
Watering Needs
Watering requirements for Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell depend on the surrounding soil moisture levels. If the plant is growing in a wetland area, it typically does not require additional watering. However, if the surrounding soil is dry, it may need watering at least once a week.
Fertilization
Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell is not a heavy feeder and typically does not require fertilization. However, if the soil is poor, or the plant is not thriving, you may consider using a slow-release fertilizer with balanced nutrients. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the package and avoid overfertilization to prevent damage to the plant.
Pruning
Generally, Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell does not require pruning. However, if the plant has reached its maximum height or is looking overly bushy, you can reduce its height by cutting it back by up to one-third. It is best to prune in the spring before new growth appears, using sharp, clean pruning shears to prevent damage to the plant. Avoid pruning the plant in the fall as it may reduce its winter hardiness.
Propagation of Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell
Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. var. scabriglumis C. Campbell, commonly known as bushy bluestem, is a perennial bunchgrass that is native to North America. It is commonly used in prairie restoration and landscaping due to its attractive appearance and tolerance to drought and poor soil conditions. There are several methods to propagate Andropogon glomeratus var. scabriglumis, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Andropogon glomeratus var. scabriglumis. The seeds should be planted in a sunny area with well-draining soil in late fall or early spring. It is important to scarify the seeds prior to planting by rubbing them with sandpaper or soaking them in warm water for 24 hours. The seeds should be planted ¼ to ½ inch deep and kept moist until they germinate, which can take 7 to 21 days. Seedlings should be thinned to a distance of 18 to 24 inches apart.
Division
Andropogon glomeratus var. scabriglumis can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the clumps of the grass into smaller sections and planting them in a prepared area. Clumps should be dug up in early spring or fall and divided into sections using a sharp knife or spade. Each section should have a healthy root system and several shoots. The sections should be replanted immediately and kept moist until they are established.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Andropogon glomeratus var. scabriglumis through stem cuttings is less common but can be successful. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants in early spring or late fall. The cuttings should be 3 to 4 inches long and taken from the upper portions of the stem. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture with the node (where leaves were removed) planted ½ inch deep. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, shaded area until roots have formed.
Disease Management
Andropogon glomeratus var. scabriglumis C. Campbell is generally a healthy plant but can be susceptible to some diseases such as leaf spots, rust, blight, and smut. Here are some ways to manage these diseases:
- Leaf spots - remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Rust - apply fungicides and remove infected leaves and debris from around the plant to prevent reinfection.
- Blight - remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Smut - remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid using infected plant material as compost.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly and take action at the first sign of any disease to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management
Some common pests that can affect Andropogon glomeratus var. scabriglumis C. Campbell include grasshoppers, spider mites, and aphids. Here are some ways to manage these pests:
- Grasshoppers - use sticky traps or apply insecticides to control grasshopper populations.
- Spider mites - use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Aphids - use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs to control aphids.
It is important to only use pesticides as a last resort and to follow instructions carefully to minimize harm to beneficial insects and the environment.
