Overview
Axonopus affinis Chase is a species of grass commonly known as carpet grass or tropical carpet grass. It is native to the Americas and thrives in warm tropical and subtropical regions, especially in moist or wet soils.
Description
Carpet grass is a medium to coarse-textured grass that forms a dense, low mat. It typically grows to a height of 2-5 inches and spreads rapidly through the use of stolons. It has a shallow root system and prefers moist, low-lying areas, but can tolerate intermittent periods of drought. The leaves are light green and may have a glossy sheen, with a blade that appears "folded" lengthwise.
Uses
Carpet grass is often used as a low-maintenance ground cover in lawns and landscapes, and is especially well-suited for coastal areas and other damp locations. It is also commonly used for erosion control and as a forage for livestock. Although it is not as popular as other grass species for lawns, it has the advantage of requiring less maintenance, fertilization, and irrigation.
In traditional medicine, the leaves of Axonopus affinis Chase have been used to treat digestive and respiratory ailments, as well as to alleviate pain and fever.
Cultivation
Carpet grass thrives in warm and humid climates, and is best grown in full sun to partial shade. It is a low-maintenance grass that requires infrequent mowing, and can tolerate moderate foot traffic. It prefers well-draining soils with a pH of 5.5-6.5, and should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Carpet grass can be propagated either by seed or stolons, and is typically sown in the spring or early summer. Depending on the desired use, it can be grown alone or mixed with other grasses. Invasive weeds should be managed carefully to prevent competition and ensure healthy grass growth.
Light Requirements
Axonopus affinis Chase thrives best in a moderate shade environment with partially filtered sunlight that allows for photosynthesis to occur. However, it can also grow well in full sun, especially in regions with seasonal extreme sunlight variations.
Temperature
Axonopus affinis Chase thrives well in a temperature range of 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and can survive lower temperatures as long as it is not for an extended period. It is cold sensitive and cannot survive in regions with severe frost or temperatures below 0°C (32°F).
Soil Requirements
Axonopus affinis Chase requires well-drained soils with a pH level of 5.0 to 7.5 and good water retention capability. The ideal soil type for this plant is sandy loam, which is rich in organic matter and allows for good root development.
Cultivation Methods for Axonopus Affinis Chase
Axonopus affinis Chase is a warm-season grass that requires a well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5 for optimal growth. It grows best in tropical and subtropical regions, where the temperature ranges between 20 and 30°C. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
You can cultivate Axonopus affinis Chase by seeding or sprigging. Seeding is the most common method, and the plant needs to be sowed in early spring when the soil temperature reaches at least 18°C. Depending on the cultivar used, the seeding rate varies between 1 and 2 kg/ha. After seeding, water the soil to keep it moist until germination occurs.
Alternatively, you can cultivate Axonopus affinis Chase through sprigging. This method involves planting portions of the stem with nodes every 30 to 40 cm apart in rows of 15 to 20 cm. Sprig planting is best done at the beginning of the wet season to allow the sprigs to root.
Watering Needs
Axonopus affinis Chase requires weekly watering, especially during the dry season. It is crucial to water the plant deeply, so the soil is moist to a depth of at least 15 cm.
When cultivating through sprigging, it is essential to keep the soil moist until the sprigs have produced roots. After rooting, you can reduce the frequency of watering as the plant becomes established.
When irrigating Axonopus affinis Chase, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Ensure there is proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can also damage the plant.
Fertilization
Axonopus affinis Chase requires fertilization to maintain healthy growth and achieve the desired turf quality. Before applying fertilizers, it is crucial to perform a soil test to determine the soil pH, nutrient deficiency, and the appropriate fertilizer application rate.
The recommended fertilizer ratio for Axonopus affinis Chase is 3:1:2 or 4:1:2. Apply nitrogen at a rate of 2-4 kg/ha during the growing season, depending on the soil test results. Supplemental fertilization with iron, magnesium, and other micronutrients may be necessary, depending on the soil type and plant's requirements.
Pruning
Axonopus affinis Chase requires regular pruning or mowing to control its height and maintain its desired turf quality. The recommended cutting height for this plant is between 3 and 5 cm.
When mowing, avoid removing more than 30 % of the leaf blade at once to avoid stress to the plant. The frequency of mowing depends on the plant's growth rate and the desired height of the turf. During the growing season, you may need to mow the plant every five to seven days.
Propagation of Axonopus Affinis Chase
Axonopus affinis Chase, commonly known as carpet grass, is a popular choice for lawns and pasture lands due to its ease of maintenance and quick growth rate. The following are the propagation methods for carpet grass:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Axonopus affinis Chase. The seeds can be sowed directly into the soil or the seedlings can be transplanted from seed trays once they have reached the appropriate growth stage. Proper watering of the seeds is essential to ensure germination and healthy growth.
Vegetative Propagation
Although not as common as seed propagation, vegetative propagation is another method of propagating carpet grass. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from the mature plant. The cuttings should be stored in a cool and dark environment for a few days to allow for the development of roots before being planted into the soil. Additionally, runners or stolons can also be used for vegetative propagation.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is a method of dividing the mature carpet grass plant into smaller sections that can be separately planted into the soil. This is an ideal method of propagation for carpet grass that has overgrown its area as it allows for a redistribution of the grass and rejuvenation of its vigor.
Propagation of Axonopus affinis Chase can be achieved through the methods mentioned above. With proper care and maintenance, carpet grass can quickly grow into lush green turf that is ideal for lawns and pasture lands.
Disease and Pest Management of Axonopus affinis Chase
Axonopus affinis Chase is a type of grass that is commonly cultivated for lawns, parks, and sports fields. This grass species is known for its ability to withstand foot traffic, tolerate shade, and maintain a vibrant green color even in hot and dry conditions. Despite its hardiness, this grass species is still vulnerable to a variety of pests and diseases that can cause damage and reduce its aesthetic appeal. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Axonopus affinis Chase and suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Axonopus affinis Chase are fungal diseases. These diseases can include Brown Patch, Dollar Spot, and Pythium Blight. Brown Patch is a fungal disease that can cause circular areas of wilting and yellowing grass. The affected grass blades have a characteristic "smoke-ring" appearance. Dollar Spot is another fungal disease that often appears as small, circular spots on the grass blades. Pythium Blight is a fungal disease that affects the base of the grass blades and can cause them to appear water-soaked.
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to maintain proper cultural practices. These practices include mowing the grass at the right height, watering the grass at the right time, and fertilizing the grass according to a set schedule. When fungal diseases do occur, there are fungicides available that can be applied to the affected area. It is best to consult a professional to determine the correct fungicide to use and how to apply it.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Axonopus affinis Chase are insects. These can include Chinch Bugs, Armyworms, and Sod Webworms. Chinch Bugs are small insects that feed on the grass blades, causing them to turn brown and die. Armyworms are caterpillars that can cause extensive damage to the grass blades by chewing through them. Sod Webworms are the larvae of small moths that feed on the grass blades, often leaving behind irregular patches of dead grass.
To manage insect pests, it is important to regularly monitor the grass for signs of infestation. If an infestation is detected, there are insecticides available that can be applied to the affected area. It is important to choose the correct insecticide and to use it at the right time according to the instructions on the label. It is also a good idea to introduce beneficial insects that can help control pest populations, such as ladybugs and lacewings.
By following proper cultural practices and monitoring the grass for signs of pests and diseases, Axonopus affinis Chase can remain healthy and vibrant. By managing any issues that do arise promptly and correctly, the grass can continue to provide an attractive, durable surface for a variety of uses.
