Overview
Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm., also known as buffalo grass, is a perennial grass species that is native to the Great Plains region of North America, including Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Description
Buffalo grass is a low growing grass that typically grows to a height of 3-6 inches. The plant has thin, gray-green leaves that are 1-6 inches long and less than 1/8 inch wide. The plant produces flowers in the spring and summer months, which are typically green or purplish-red in color.
Common Names
Buffalo grass is known by a number of common names, including buffalo lawn, scotch grass, and grama.
Uses
Buffalo grass is commonly used as a turf grass in lawns, golf courses, and parks due to its ability to withstand drought and cold temperatures. The plant is also used for erosion control and as a forage for livestock. Additionally, buffalo grass may have medicinal properties, and has been used historically in traditional Native American medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Light Requirements
Buchloe dactyloides thrives in areas that receive full sun exposure. In fact, it is often used in lawns and landscapes as a drought-resistant grass that can withstand high levels of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
For optimal growth, Buchloe dactyloides prefers warm temperatures ranging between 70-90°F (21-32.2°C). It can also tolerate cold spells as long as they are not prolonged and intense, and the plant goes dormant during winter.
Soil Requirements
The plant has a preference for well-drained soils, though it can grow in various types of soil, including sandy and loamy soils. It thrives in soils with a pH of 6.5 to 8.5. The plant is relatively drought-resistant and does not require very fertile soil to grow.
Cultivation Methods
The Buchloe dactyloides, commonly known as Buffalo grass, is a warm-season grass that grows well in full sun or partial shade, with warm daytime temperatures and cool evenings. It is a low maintenance grass that grows best in well-drained soil and can tolerate drought, heat, and cold stress. The grass can be propagated by seed or sod, and the best time to plant them is in late spring when the soil is warm.
Watering Needs
The Buffalo grass is a drought-tolerant grass that requires less water than other grass species. It does well in soils that are dry and well-drained, and may only need watering once in a while during the dry seasons. Overwatering may cause the roots to rot and make the plant susceptible to diseases, so it is essential to water the plant only when necessary.
Fertilization
The Buffalo grass generally does not require much fertilization, but occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer can improve the growth and health of the plant. The best time to fertilize is in early spring or during the growing season. Slow-release fertilizer is recommended to prevent over-fertilization and to ensure that the nutrients are gradually released over time.
Pruning
The Buffalo grass does not require much pruning, but regular mowing during the growing season can help to maintain a neat appearance and prevent the grass from becoming too tall. The ideal mowing height is around 2 to 3 inches, and it is best to remove no more than 1/3 of the height at each mowing to avoid damaging the grass. It is also essential to keep the mower blades sharp to prevent tearing of the grass blades.
Propagation of Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.
Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm., commonly known as buffalo grass, is a warm-season perennial grass species native to North America. It is a drought-tolerant and low-maintenance grass that is commonly used in turfgrass and erosion control. Propagation of buffalo grass can be done through seeds or vegetative means.
Propagation by Seed
Buffalo grass seeds can be collected from mature seed heads, which usually appear from late June to August. The collected seeds can be dried and stored in a cool and dry place until planting. Buffalo grass seeds require warm soil temperatures (18-24°C) to germinate, which usually occurs within 7-21 days.
The seeds can be planted in early spring or early fall, depending on the desired establishment time. Prior to planting, the soil should be loosened to a depth of 15-20 cm and any weeds removed. The seeds can be broadcasted or drilled into the soil at a depth of 0.5-1 cm and spaced 30 cm apart.
After planting, the soil should be kept moist until germination occurs. Once established, buffalo grass requires less frequent watering and can survive prolonged periods of drought.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Buffalo grass can also be propagated through vegetative means, such as sod plugs or stolons. Sod plugs are small sections of grass and soil that are cut from an established buffalo grass turf and planted in a desired location.
Stolons, on the other hand, are above-ground stems that grow horizontally along the ground and can produce roots and shoots at each node. Stolons can be harvested from an established buffalo grass lawn and transplanted into a new location. To encourage root growth, stolons should be planted in a moist soil and kept well-watered until established.
Overall, buffalo grass is a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant grass species that can be propagated through seeds or vegetative means.
Disease and Pest Management for Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.
An important factor in the cultivation of Buchloe dactyloides is the management of diseases and pests. Below are the common diseases and pests that may affect the plant, along with suggested management practices.
Common Diseases
Pythium Root Rot: This disease typically occurs in areas with high temperatures and high humidity. To prevent Pythium root rot, maintain proper soil moisture, and control irrigation. Avoid overhead watering, which can splash soil onto the plant. Use fungicide drenches to treat infected plants.
Leaf Rust: This disease produces yellow-orange pustules on the leaves. Remove and destroy infected plant debris from the surrounding area. Use fungicides to control the disease.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is characterized by a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems. To prevent the disease, provide good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering. Remove infected leaves and use fungicides to treat the plant.
Common Pests
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to the leaves of the plant. Apply insecticides to control the pests.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can cause damage by sucking sap from the plant. They also secrete a sticky substance that can attract other pests. Control aphids by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cutworms: Cutworms are nocturnal pests that can cut the stems of the plant at soil level. Place collars around the base of the plant to prevent cutworms from reaching the stem. Use insecticides on the soil to control cutworms.
These disease and pest management practices will help ensure a healthy growth for your Buchloe dactyloides. Regular inspection and maintenance are important for keeping the plant free from damage.
