Axonopus Aureus Beauv. - Golden Carpetgrass

Overview of Axonopus aureus Beauv.

Axonopus aureus Beauv. is a species of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is also known by several other common names, including golden carpet grass, yellow carpet grass, and yellowtop.

Origin of Axonopus aureus Beauv.

Axonopus aureus Beauv. is native to the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. It thrives in warm, humid climates and can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.

General Appearance of Axonopus aureus Beauv.

Axonopus aureus Beauv. is a low-growing perennial grass that typically reaches a height of 6 to 24 inches. It forms a dense, mat-like groundcover that is bright green or yellow-green in color. The leaves are narrow and flattened, with pointed tips and rough edges. The plant produces spikelets of tiny flowers that are clustered on stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers are yellow-green and bloom throughout the summer and fall.

Uses of Axonopus aureus Beauv.

Axonopus aureus Beauv. is commonly used as a turf grass for lawns and landscapes in warm, humid regions. It is also used as a forage grass for livestock and as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion. Additionally, it has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat numerous ailments, including fever, digestive issues, and respiratory problems.

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Light Requirements

The Axonopus aureus Beauv. plant prefers to grow in areas exposed to partial to full sunlight. A minimum of four hours of direct sunlight is necessary for this plant to achieve optimal growth.

Temperature Requirements

The growth of Axonopus aureus Beauv. is largely dependent on temperature. This plant prefers a tropical to subtropical climate. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 21°C to 27°C. Axonopus aureus Beauv. is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C.

Soil Requirements

The soil type and quality determine the growth of Axonopus aureus Beauv. This plant thrives well in well-draining soils that retain moisture. Axonopus aureus Beauv. prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.0. This plant is best grown in soils that have good organic matter content.

Water Requirements

To achieve optimal growth, Axonopus aureus Beauv. requires adequate water supply. This plant prefers moderate to high levels of moisture. However, waterlogged soils can lead to root rot, which can eventually kill the plant. It is essential to provide the plant with proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Cultivation

Axonopus aureus Beauv., also known as Golden carpet grass or Southern carpet grass, is a warm-season perennial grass commonly used for lawns, pastures, and erosion control. The plant is well-adapted to sandy soils and grows best in areas with temperatures ranging from 70-90 °F.

To cultivate Axonopus aureus, prepare the planting area by removing all weeds and other plant debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches and apply a slow-release fertilizer. Sow the seeds lightly and water the area to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Keep the soil moist until the grass is established, which usually takes about three weeks.

Watering

Golden carpet grass requires frequent watering during the establishment period. For the first three weeks, keep the soil moist by watering it lightly several times a day. After that, reduce the frequency of watering but make sure that the soil does not dry out completely.

During the growing season, Axonopus aureus needs about 1-1.5 inches of water per week. The grass should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth and drought tolerance.

Fertilization

Proper fertilization is crucial for healthy growth and development of Axonopus aureus. Apply about 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet of lawn area every six weeks during the growing season.

Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive growth and increase the risk of pest infestation. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and apply fertilizers evenly to prevent patchy growth.

Pruning

Golden carpet grass requires regular mowing to maintain a healthy and attractive appearance. Mow the grass to a height of 1-2 inches, depending on the frequency of use and desired appearance.

Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time as it can damage the plant and weaken its root system. Use a sharp mower blade and mow when the grass is dry to prevent tearing and shredding of the leaves.

Propagation of Axonopus Aureus Beauv.

Axonopus aureus Beauv. or the Carpet Grass is a warm-season grass that can be propagated by both seed and vegetatively. Here are the different propagation methods that can be used for the Axonopus aureus:

Seed Propagation

Seed propagation is one of the commonly used methods to grow Axonopus aureus. The seeds can be sown directly on the soil, and it is recommended to plant them during the warm months of the year. Here are the steps for seed propagation:

1. Prepare the Bed: Prepare a fine seedbed by tilling the soil to a depth of 10-15 cm and removing debris or any weeds.
2. Sow the Seeds: Spread the seeds uniformly over the soil, preferably during early summer or during the rainy season.
3. Cover the Seeds: Lightly cover the seeds with soil to protect them from the wind and birds.
4. Maintain Moisture: Water the area regularly and ensure that the soil remains moist.
5. Germination: The seeds will germinate within one to two weeks, and the grass will start to grow.
6. Thinning: Thin out the shoots after two to three weeks to give room for growth.

Vegatative Propagation

Axonopus aureus can also be propagated vegetatively through stolons or runners. Here are the steps:

1. Identify Healthy Runner: Choose a healthy runner with leaves that are green and not damaged.
2. Cut the Runner: Using a sharp knife or garden scissors, cut the runner at a node where the roots will grow.
3. Prepare the Site: Prepare the site by tilling to a depth of 10-15 cm, removing any debris or weeds and leveling the soil surface.
4. Plant the Runner: Plant the runner horizontally into the soil with the roots facing downwards and the leaves on the surface.
5. Water the area: Water the area immediately after planting.
6. Maintain Moisture: It is essential to keep the soil moist, especially during the first few weeks of growth.
7. Root Establishment: After two to three weeks, the roots will establish, and the plant should start growing soon after.

Propagation via stolon is a useful method as it can also help to repair damaged areas or increase the coverage of the Axonopus aureus plant. It is also beneficial for managing turf with better toleration to drought to tropical environments.

Disease and Pest Management for Axonopus aureus Beauv.

Axonopus aureus Beauv. is a common turfgrass used in lawns, parks, and golf courses because of its tolerance to shade, low height, and its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. However, this grass can still be affected by several pests and diseases, which can lead to severe damage if not managed properly.

Common Diseases

Fungal diseases are the most common type of diseases that can affect Axonopus aureus Beauv. Some of these diseases include:

• Gray leaf spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Pyricularia grisea and can be identified by grayish-brown lesions with purple borders on the leaves. To manage this disease, avoid excessive fertilization and watering, use resistant cultivars, and apply fungicides.
• Brown patch: This disease is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani and can appear as irregular brown patches with yellow margins. To manage brown patch, practice good cultural practices, such as proper fertilization and irrigation, and use fungicides when necessary.
• Leaf spot: This disease is caused by several fungi, including Bipolaris spp. and Curvularia spp., and can cause small, brown lesions on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding, use resistant cultivars, and apply fungicides.

Common Pests

Several pests can also affect Axonopus aureus Beauv. Some of these pests include:

• Armyworms: These pests can cause extensive damage by feeding on the leaves and crowns of the grass. To manage armyworms, apply insecticides and use cultural practices, such as mowing and dethatching, to reduce infestations.
• Grubs: Grubs are the larvae of beetles and can cause significant root damage, leading to thinning and discoloration of the grass. To manage grubs, use insecticides and change cultural practices, such as timing of fertilization, to reduce infestations.
• Mites: Mites can suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage mites, use insecticides and avoid overwatering the grass, which can create favorable conditions for mite infestation.

It is essential to keep a close eye on Axonopus aureus Beauv. to identify any signs of diseases and pests early. By managing these concerns using cultural practices, appropriate pesticides, and resistant cultivars, you can keep the turfgrass healthy and attractive.