Overview
Bothriochloa intermedia (R.Br.) A.Camus var. acidula (Stapf) C.E.Hubb. is a perennial grass that is native to Africa, particularly in the eastern and southern parts of the continent. It is commonly known as African bluestem or bushman grass.
Appearance
The plant Typically grows up to 1.5 meters tall with leaves that have a bluish-green color and flowers that are arranged in panicles at the top of the stem. The stem is slender and erect and has nodes that are spaced evenly along it.
Uses
Bothriochloa intermedia (R.Br.) A.Camus var. acidula (Stapf) C.E.Hubb. has several uses, especially in Africa. It is used as a forage crop to feed livestock such as goats, sheep, and cattle. The grass is also used for erosion control purposes and as a decorative plant in gardens and parks. In traditional medicine, the leaves and roots of the plant are used to treat various ailments.
Light Requirements
Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula prefers full sunlight or partial shade to grow. The plant can tolerate a certain amount of shade, but it may affect its growth rate and flowering capacity.
Temperature Requirements
The plant typically grows in tropical and subtropical regions, where temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C. Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula can tolerate both high and low temperatures, but extreme weather conditions such as frost and drought can affect its growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained soil types, such as sandy loam or clay. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but does not thrive in waterlogged or compacted soil. Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. It also benefits from regular fertilization with phosphorus and potassium-based fertilizers.
Cultivation
Bothriochloa intermedia (R.Br.) A.Camus var. acidula (Stapf) C.E.Hubb., commonly known as Red Grass or Redskin Grass, can be grown in a variety of soils, including sandy soils, clay soils, and loamy soils. The plant prefers well-drained soils that are moderately fertile.
Watering Needs
Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula prefers moderate watering and it can also tolerate drought. It is important to avoid over watering which can cause the plant to rot or suffer from root diseases. For optimal growth, the plant needs about an inch of water per week.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization to maintain optimal growth. It responds well to regular feeding with balanced fertilizers during the growing period. Organic mulches like compost or leaf matter can also be added during planting to help provide necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula does not require regular pruning. However, if necessary, pruning can be done to control the plant size, shape or to remove old or damaged stems. Pruning should be done in early spring before the growing season begins.
Propagation of Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula
Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula, commonly known as Red Beardgrass, is a warm-season, perennial bunchgrass native to Australia. It is highly valued for its forage and soil conservation capabilities. The plant can be propagated both sexually and asexually.
Sexual Propagation
Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula produces viable seed which can be used for propagation. The seeds are small, dry, and usually have an awn. Seed collection can be done once the seeds have turned brown and begin to drop from the plant. The seeds should be cleaned, dried and stored in a cool, dry place until ready for sowing. Sowing the seeds can be done either by broadcast seeding or drilling.
Asexual Propagation
Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula can also be propagated vegetatively. This can be done by stem cuttings and division of clumps. Stem cuttings can be collected during the growing season and rooted under favorable conditions. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone to increase the chances of success. Division of clumps involves separating the parent plant into smaller sections and replanting them in new locations. This method is best done during the growing season when the roots are actively growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula
Bothriochloa intermedia var. acidula (commonly known as silver bluestem) is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management practices can help prevent or mitigate these issues and ensure a healthy plant.
Common diseases
Fungal diseases: Silver bluestem can be affected by various fungal diseases such as leaf and sheath blight, rust, and smut. These can cause leaf lesions, yellowing, and stunted growth.
Viral diseases: Virus infections can cause mosaic patterns, yellowing, and distorted growth. While there are no specific treatments available for viral diseases, infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent spreading to healthy plants.
Pest management
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to silver bluestem by consuming the foliage and stems. Cultural control methods such as crop rotation, removal of host plants, and reducing overwintering habitats can help prevent grasshopper populations. Insecticides may also be used to control heavy infestations.
Cattle: Silver bluestem is a popular forage grass for cattle, but overgrazing can cause significant damage and reduce the plant's health and growth. Careful management practices such as rotational grazing can help prevent overgrazing.
By implementing proper disease and pest management practices, silver bluestem can thrive and remain a valuable addition to pastures and ranges.
