Overview
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. is a perennial grass belonging to the Poaceae family. It is also commonly known as New Mexico bluestem, blue stem, and turkeyfoot grass. The plant is native to North America and is predominantly found in the southwestern region of the United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to a height of 3 feet and has a spread of approximately 2 feet. It has greyish-green to blue-green leaves that are long, narrow, and wiry. The leaves grow up to 15 inches long and 0.5 inches wide, and they tend to curl or fold to conserve moisture. The plant has an extensive root system that can reach up to 10 feet in depth, allowing it to thrive in drought conditions.
The flower stems are tall and erect, with a bluish-white tint that turns to a reddish-brown color during fall. The flower heads are densely packed and have a distinctive flattened shape that resembles a turkeyfoot. The seeds range from 1.5 to 2 mm in length and are arranged in pairs.
Uses
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. has various uses and benefits. The plant is commonly used in landscaping and soil conservation efforts. Its deep root system helps prevent erosion and increase soil fertility by improving microbial activity and nutrient cycling.
The plant also provides a source of forage for livestock, particularly during the winter months when other grazing options are scarce. Additionally, the seeds of the New Mexico bluestem are an essential food source for various bird species, including the ring-necked pheasant, northern bobwhite, and wild turkey.
In traditional medicine practices, the root of Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. is used to treat various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. These medicinal applications are attributed to the plant's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
In summary, Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. is a valuable plant species with a range of uses and ecological benefits. Its unique appearance, long-lasting foliage, and drought tolerance make it an excellent addition to gardens, roadsides, and other landscape settings.
Light Requirement:
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade. It is advisable to plant the grass in an open space where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirement:
The grass can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is well-adapted to different climatic conditions. However, it prefers warm and humid conditions with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C) during the growing season. Cold temperatures ranging from -30°F to 30°F (-34°C to -1°C) are tolerable during its dormant period.
Soil Requirement:
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. is well-adapted to different soil types but thrives best in well-drained, sandy loam or clay loam soils. The grass prefers a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 and can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. It is important to note that the grass is intolerant to waterlogged soils, so good drainage is crucial.
Cultivation Methods
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc., commonly known as New Mexico broom grass, is a warm season grass that prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight. It can tolerate drought conditions but grows better with regular watering. This plant is propagated from seed and can be planted in spring or fall.
Watering Needs
New Mexico broom grass grows well under dry conditions but performs better when regularly watered. It is essential to water the plant deeply once a week rather than frequent shallow watering. Regular watering ensures that the plant maintains good root development and remains healthy, producing leaves and flowers for a long time.
Fertilization
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. is a natural grass that does not require significant fertilizer application. However, if you want to increase plant growth and productivity, you can apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer in early spring before the growing season begins. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant since it can lead to weak growth and disease susceptibility.
Pruning
New Mexico broom grass does not require significant pruning. However, you can clip the plant's leaves and stem at the end of the growing season to help reduce potential fungal or disease infections. Additionally, regular removal of dead or damaged stems and leaves ensures the plant remains healthy and bushy.
Propagation of Andropogon scoparius var. neomexicanus
Andropogon scoparius var. neomexicanus, commonly known as New Mexico big bluestem, is a perennial grass native to the southwestern United States. It is a popular ornamental grass in gardens and landscapes, valued for its attractive blue-green foliage and tall, upright growth habit.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Andropogon scoparius var. neomexicanus is by seed. The seeds should be collected in the fall when they have turned brown and are starting to drop from the plant. The collected seeds can be planted immediately or stored in a cool, dry location until spring.
Before planting, the seeds should be scarified by either soaking them in hot water for 24 hours or rubbing them with sandpaper. This will help to break down the hard outer seed coat and allow for better germination. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist. Germination can take anywhere from 3 to 21 days, depending on the soil temperature.
Division
Andropogon scoparius var. neomexicanus can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring, just as new growth is starting to emerge. The plant should be dug up carefully and divided into smaller clumps, making sure that each division has its own roots and shoots. The smaller clumps can then be replanted into their own location, making sure to water them thoroughly.
It is important to note that Andropogon scoparius var. neomexicanus has a deep and extensive root system, so care should be taken not to damage the roots during division.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is possible with Andropogon scoparius var. neomexicanus, but it is not a common method. Cuttings should be taken in the spring from young shoots, and they should be about 4 inches long. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture.
Cuttings should be kept moist and in a humid environment until they have rooted, which can take up to 6 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be planted into their permanent location.
Propagation of Andropogon scoparius var. neomexicanus can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. By following the proper methods of seed propagation, division, or cuttings, this beautiful perennial grass can be a valuable addition to any landscape.
Disease Management
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. is a native grass species that is relatively resistant to diseases. However, on rare occasions, this plant species can be affected by diseases like leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew.
To manage leaf spot disease, remove and destroy infected plant tissue to prevent the spread of spores to healthy plant tissues. Fungicides containing copper or sulfur can also be applied as a preventative measure or as a curative method for severe cases.
Rust, on the other hand, can be managed by providing adequate air circulation to prevent moisture buildup or by using fungicides containing propiconazole or tebuconazole.
Powdery mildew can be controlled with cultural practices such as removing infected debris, providing adequate air circulation, and reducing humidity levels. Fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate or sulfur can also be used to manage powdery mildew.
Pest Management
Andropogon scoparius Michx. var. neomexicanus (Nash) A.S. Hitchc. is also relatively resistant to most pests. However, on rare occasions, the plant species can be attacked by grasshoppers, crickets, and spider mites.
To manage grasshopper and cricket infestations, physical barriers such as floating row covers can be used to prevent the pests from accessing the plant. Natural predators like birds and beneficial insects like praying mantis can also be introduced to the environment to control the pest populations. Insecticides like spinosad or pyrethrin can also be used to control grasshoppers and crickets.
Spider mites can be managed by increasing the humidity levels around the plant and by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. If the infestation is severe, using a miticide can also be effective in controlling the pest population.
Regular monitoring of the plant is important to detect any signs of pest or disease infestations as early as possible. Early detection and timely intervention can greatly reduce the damage caused by pests and diseases.
