Origin
Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey, commonly known as Bluejoint Reedgrass, is a native plant species in North America. It grows in moist to wet soils in open areas such as meadows and marshes and can be found in Alaska, Canada, and the northern regions of the United States.
Common Names
Bluejoint Reedgrass is the most commonly used name for this plant, but it is also known as Calamagrostis canadensis var. macouniana, rough reedgrass, and tall marsh grass.
Uses
Bluejoint Reedgrass is an ecologically important plant species, providing habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds, rodents, and ungulates. It is also commonly used in wetland restoration projects due to its ability to grow in wet soils and stabilize soil erosion. Additionally, some Indigenous cultures in North America have used the plant's blades to weave baskets and mats.
General Appearance
Bluejoint Reedgrass is a tall perennial plant, growing up to 6 feet tall. It has green, flat blades that can reach up to 3 feet in length and ½ inch in width. The stem of the plant is bluish-green and reddish-brown at the base. The plant produces a dense cluster of flowers on branching stems in the summer, which can be up to 2 feet in length. The flowers are typically purplish-green and somewhat spiky in appearance.
Light Conditions
The Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey plant species thrives well under full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. When grown under full sun, it produces denser foliage, which contributes to the plant's overall robustness. If you decide to plant this species under partial shade, make sure the shade is not too dense as it may limit the plant's growth.
Temperature Conditions
The Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey species has a wide temperature tolerance, and it can adapt to various temperature ranges. However, the optimum growth temperature should be around 20-27°C. Temperatures below 0°C can damage the plant, while temperatures above 30°C can slow down its growth.
Soil Requirements
This plant species can grow in different soil types, but it prefers moist, well-drained, and loamy soils. The plant also grows well in alkaline and slightly acidic soils, with a pH range of 6.0-8.0. You may need to add organic matter to your soil to improve its fertility if it has poor drainage or low fertility. Additionally, the Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey species can tolerate drought, but it would still require regular watering during dry spells.
Cultivation
Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey, commonly known as Bluejoint, prefers moist soils and is best suited for meadow gardens, near ponds or streams, and in wet meadows.
This plant grows well in full sun to partial shade and requires well-draining soil. It is recommended to plant in spring or fall and to space the plants about 1-2 feet apart.
Watering Needs
Bluejoint grows best in moist soil and requires a regular and consistent supply of water. Ensure that the soil is consistently moist, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot and other plant health issues.
Fertilization
Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey is a low feeding plant and does not require much fertilization. However, adding a balanced fertilizer during planting can promote root growth. During the growing season, a light application of nitrogen-based fertilizer can also provide a boost to the plant.
Pruning
Bluejoint requires little to no pruning unless you want to manage its size or to remove any dead or damaged stems. Cut back the dead stems to the ground in early spring before new growth appears.
It is also important to remove any invasive shoots or stems if you notice them. Otherwise, the plant can quickly spread and overtake neighboring plants.
Propagation methods for Calamagrostis canadensis var. robusta
Calamagrostis canadensis var. robusta, also known as Bluejoint, is a popular ornamental grass that is native to North America. The species is known to have a high seed production rate, which makes it easy to propagate through seedling production.
Seed propagation
Bluejoint seeds are easy to collect and have a high germination rate. The best time to collect the seeds is from mid to late summer when the seed heads have turned brown and the seeds have fully matured. Collect the seed heads and gently rub them to separate the seeds from the stalks. The seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until ready for planting.
Before planting the seeds, it is recommended to scarify the seed coat to increase the germination rate. This involves nicking the seed coat with a knife or rubbing it gently with sandpaper to allow water and nutrients to enter the seed more easily. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until they germinate. Germination typically occurs within two to three weeks.
Division propagation
Bluejoint can also be propagated through division. This involves separating the rhizomes or clumps of the plant into smaller sections and planting them individually. The best time to do this is in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively growing.
To divide the plant, carefully dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden fork. Each section should have roots and several shoots. Replant the divisions in a prepared bed with well-draining soil and keep them moist for the first few weeks until they have established new roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey
Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey is generally a healthy plant. However, it can be affected by diseases and pests that can impact its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that can affect Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey, causing yellow, orange, or reddish-brown pustules on the leaves. The infected leaves may turn yellow or brown and fall off the plant. To control rust, remove any infected leaves or stems and destroy them. Fungicides can also help prevent the spread of rust.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular, tan or brown spots on the leaves. The spots may have a darker border and can merge to create large patches. To control leaf spot, remove any infected leaves or stems and destroy them. Fungicides can also help prevent the spread of leaf spot.
Pests
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers are pests that can eat the leaves and stems of Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey, causing significant damage to the plant. To manage grasshoppers, use insecticides, lay down sticky bands around the plant, or use row covers to prevent the insects from reaching the plant.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey, causing yellowing and eventual death of the leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Also, regularly water the plant to keep the leaves hydrated.
Wireworms: Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles and can cause damage to the roots of Calamagrostis canadensis (Michx.) Beauv. var. robusta Vasey, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage wireworms, practice crop rotation, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and use insecticides.
