Overview
Axonopus furcatus (Flueggé) A.S. Hitchc., also known as the forked carpet grass, is a species of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a common, warm-season, perennial grass that grows in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Origin and Common Names
Axonopus furcatus is native to much of South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It has since been introduced to many other parts of the world, including North America, Central America, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
The plant has several common names, such as forked carpet grass, para grass, mat grass, and broadleaf carpet grass. In Spanish-speaking countries, it is often called grama pasto.
Uses
Axonopus furcatus is widely used as a forage grass for livestock and is considered to be one of the highest-yielding forage grasses in the tropics. It is particularly useful for cattle grazing, hay production, and silage making.
In addition to its use as a forage crop, Axonopus furcatus is used as a ground cover and erosion control plant in many areas. It is also planted as a turf grass in parks, gardens, and golf courses as it forms a very dense and attractive sward.
General Appearance
Axonopus furcatus is a stoloniferous, mat-forming grass that typically grows to a height of 30-80 cm (12-31 in). The leaves are dark green and lance-shaped, with a prominent midrib and a rough texture on the upper surface. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the panicles are terminal and branched, consisting of multiple spikes.
The plant has a deep root system that allows it to tolerate drought and waterlogging. It grows well in a variety of soils, but it prefers soils that are moist and well-drained.
hereGrowth Conditions for Axonopus Furcatus
Axonopus furcatus, commonly known as Paspalum, is a type of grass native to tropical regions of the Americas. For optimal growth, this plant requires specific conditions that must be taken into account during cultivation.
Light Requirements
Axonopus furcatus demands full sunlight for at least six hours every day to thrive. Therefore, the plant must be grown in an area that receives ample direct sunlight to allow photosynthesis, which is essential for growth and development. Reduced light levels will result in longer internodes and weaker growth of the grass.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Axonopus furcatus is between 20-35°C (68-95°F). Temperatures above or below this range can adversely impact plant growth. The plant may also experience stunted growth, reduced vigor, and possible death if exposed to extended periods of high or low temperatures, respectively.
Soil Requirements
Axonopus furcatus grows best in soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral soil. The grass prefers soil with high fertility, good drainage, and water retention abilities. The soil should be rich in organic matter and well-aerated. It is recommended to avoid growing Axonopus furcatus in soils with high salinity or water-logging, as this can impede the plant's growth and reduce its longevity.
Cultivation of Axonopus furcatus
Axonopus furcatus is a warm-season perennial grass species that is commonly used as a lawn grass in some regions. It grows best in well-draining soils that have good water retention capabilities.
The planting process for Axonopus furcatus involves preparing a seedbed by tilling the soil to a depth of about 6 inches. Sow the seeds at a rate of 5 to 10 pounds per acre. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil to ensure sufficient seed-to-soil contact. Water the area thoroughly after sowing.
Watering Needs
Axonopus furcatus requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. It prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate periodic drying. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and season.
A good way to determine if the grass needs water is by performing a soil moisture test. Insert a screwdriver or probe into the soil. If it penetrates the soil with minimal resistance, the soil is adequately moist.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary to promote healthy growth and maintain a healthy lawn. Apply a complete fertilizer with a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Use a spreader to apply the fertilizer evenly across the lawn surface.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the dosages and frequency of application. In general, apply fertilizer in early spring, early summer, and early fall.
Pruning
Pruning Axonopus furcatus is necessary to promote healthy growth and maintain a desirable appearance. Mow the grass when it reaches a height of about 3 inches. Do not remove more than one-third of the grass blade height in one mowing session.
It is also essential to remove any dead or yellowed parts of the grass to maintain a uniform appearance. Use a rake to remove any debris or thatch from the lawn surface.
Propagation of Axonopus furcatus
Axonopus furcatus, commonly known as flueggea carpetgrass, is a warm-season, perennial grass species distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Propagation of Axonopus furcatus is relatively simple and can be achieved by various methods.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common method used to propagate Axonopus furcatus. Collect mature seeds from the plants, preferably during the dry season. Harvested seeds can be directly sown into the soil or raised in nurseries to produce seedlings. Germination usually occurs within 15 to 21 days, and seedlings can be transplanted to the field after one month.
Propagation by Stolons
Axonopus furcatus can also be propagated through stolons. The stolons are horizontal stems that grow above the ground and develop roots and shoots at the nodes. To propagate by stolons, select healthy and vigorous plants, cut the stolons using sterilized equipment, and plant them in suitable soil conditions. Water frequently to ensure that the stolons establish roots and grow into a new plant.
Propagation by Sod
Propagation by sod is another effective method of propagating Axonopus furcatus. Sod is the upper layer of the soil, which contains matted roots and grass. To propagate by sod, cut the sod from a healthy and robust plant using a sharp knife. Ensure that the sod has enough roots and grass for successful establishment. Cut the sod into smaller pieces and plant in a prepared soil bed, watering frequently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the propagation of Axonopus furcatus can be achieved by various methods such as seed, stolons, and sod. The selected method should depend on the availability of resources, environmental conditions, and desired results. With proper care and management, propagating Axonopus furcatus can be a successful endeavor.
Disease and Pest Management for Axonopus furcatus
Axonopus furcatus, commonly known as forked carpetgrass, is a popular grass choice for lawns and sports fields due to its hardiness and tolerance to various weather conditions. However, like any other plant, it is not immune to diseases and pests that weaken and damage the plant. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Axonopus furcatus and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Brown patch: This is a fungal disease caused by Rhizoctonia solani. The disease appears as circular patches of brown grass surrounded by a dark outline. The affected areas can merge, leading to the widespread death of the grass. Brown patch disease thrives in warm, humid weather and over-fertilized lawns.
To manage brown patch disease, reduce the amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied to the lawn, and avoid overhead irrigation. Aerating the lawn to improve airflow can also help to reduce the disease's impact. Fungicides can be used in severe cases.
Red thread: This is another fungal disease caused by Laetisaria fuciformis. Small, red-pink patches of grass appear, and the fungal growth produces a red or pink color. The disease thrives in cool, moist weather and over-fertilized lawns.
To manage red thread disease, reduce the amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied to the lawn. Apply fertilizer early in the spring and fall, rather than during the summer when it is hot and humid. Fungicides can be used in severe cases.
Pests
Chinch bugs: These are small insects that feed on the plant's blades, causing yellow, brown, or dead patches to appear. The bugs thrive in hot, dry weather.
To manage chinch bug infestation, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other organic insecticides. Keep the lawn well-irrigated and avoid over-fertilization, which can attract the chinch bugs.
Sod webworms: These are the larvae of the adult webworm, a small moth. The larvae feed on grass blades and can cause brown patches to appear.
To manage sod webworms, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide, which is effective against the larvae. Avoid over-fertilization and keep the lawn well-irrigated.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can keep your Axonopus furcatus healthy and thriving. Regular maintenance and healthy growing conditions can help prevent disease and pest infestations.
