Origin
The Calamagrostis expansa Rickett & Gilly, non (Munro ex Hbd.) A.S. Hitchc. is a species of grass that is native to North America. It can be found in the western part of the continent, ranging from Alaska to California, and as far east as Colorado and Wyoming.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Pacific Reedgrass, which refers to its geographic distribution, or as the California Reedgrass. It is also sometimes referred to as the Bluejoint Reedgrass because of the blue-green coloration of its foliage.
Uses
The Pacific Reedgrass is an important species in many ecosystems, particularly in wetland areas. It forms dense stands that provide habitat for a variety of birds, insects, and other wildlife. It is also an important species for erosion control, as its fibrous root system helps stabilize soils and prevent erosion along streambanks and other waterways.
In addition, the Pacific Reedgrass is an important forage species for grazing animals, including elk, deer, and cattle. It is a highly palatable species that is fairly high in protein, making it a valuable food source for these animals.
General Appearance
The Pacific Reedgrass is a perennial grass that typically grows in dense clumps that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. It has long, narrow leaves that are blue-green in color and can grow up to 60 centimeters in length. The plant produces dense, cylindrical seed heads that can be up to 30 centimeters long.
Overall, the Pacific Reedgrass is an attractive grass species with a variety of ecological and practical uses. Its dense stands provide habitat and erosion control, while also serving as an important food source for grazing animals.
Light Requirements
Calamagrostis expansa requires full to partial sunlight to grow successfully. It can tolerate some shade but, in general, it needs good light to reach its full potential. If the plant is grown under shade, it may become leggy, and its growth may be stunted. Therefore, it is best to grow it in an open area where it can receive sufficient light.
Temperature Requirements
Calamagrostis expansa is native to cool-temperate areas, and it prefers a cool climate. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°C or more, making it ideal for growing in northern regions. However, it cannot tolerate high temperatures above 25°C. When temperatures exceed this limit, the plant becomes stressed, and its growth may be hampered.
Soil Requirements
Calamagrostis expansa grows best in well-drained soils. It prefers neutral to alkaline soils with a pH range of 6.5-8.5. The plant can also tolerate sandy loam soils, but it is not suitable for heavy or clay soils. It requires moist and fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. Adequate soil moisture is essential for this plant, and it will not grow well in dry conditions.
Cultivation Methods for Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly
Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly, commonly known as bluejoint, is a tall, rhizomatous grass that is native to North America. It prefers moist and cool environments, making it an ideal plant for wetlands, meadows, and other natural landscapes. For cultivation, it's ideal to choose a site with well-drained soil that receives full or partial sunlight.
The planting of Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly should be done in the early spring, when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild. The rhizomes can be planted about 3 to 4 inches deep into the ground and spaced apart to allow for growth.
Watering Needs for Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly
Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly requires consistent moisture in the soil, especially during its initial stages of growth. This is best achieved by watering it regularly, but being careful not to create waterlogged soil. The soil should be kept damp, but not completely saturated.
Dry spells should not last for more than a week, and the grass should be frequently irrigated during such periods. This is especially true for potted Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly which require more frequent watering than in-ground ones.
Fertilization for Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly
Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly requires minimal fertilization during its growth cycle. It is best to apply fertilizer in early spring when the plant begins to show signs of new growth. A slow-release fertilizer that is low in nitrogen is ideal. Nitrogen promotes lush green growth, but too much of it can cause weak, floppy plants that are susceptible to disease.
It is also advisable not to use fertilizer with a high salt content as it can cause root damage and stunted growth.
Pruning for Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly
Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly does not require pruning for growth. However, for aesthetic reasons, pruning can be done in late winter or early spring when the dead foliage and stems become noticeable.
The best way to prune Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly is by using a shear to cut down its foliage to about 1-2 inches. This will encourage new growth while giving the plant a neat appearance.
It is advisable to wear garden gloves when pruning the grass blades of Calamagrostis Expansa Rickett & Gilly to avoid skin irritation.
Propagation of Calamagrostis expansa Rickett & Gilly
Calamagrostis expansa Rickett & Gilly is a perennial bunchgrass that is native to North America. Propagation of this plant can be done by seed or division.
Propagation by Seed
The most common method of propagating Calamagrostis expansa is by seed. Seeds can be collected from mature plants in late summer or fall when they have dried out. The seeds must be cleaned and stored in a cold, dry location until planting in the spring.
Before planting the seeds, they need to be stratified. This means exposing them to a cold and moist environment for a period of time to break the seed dormancy. To stratify the seeds of Calamagrostis expansa, they can be placed in a plastic bag with moist peat moss and refrigerated for 30-60 days.
After stratification, the seeds can be planted in a seed tray or directly in the ground. Planting should take place in early spring after the last frost. The soil should be well-draining with a pH of 6-7. The seeds should be planted 1/8 inch deep and spaced at least 6 inches apart. They should be watered lightly but evenly and kept moist until germination.
Propagation by Division
Calamagrostis expansa can also be propagated by division. This method is typically used for mature plants that have formed clumps and need to be thinned out.
The best time to divide Calamagrostis expansa is in the spring before new growth begins. The plant should be dug up carefully, ensuring that the roots are not damaged. The clump can then be divided into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden fork. Each section should have at least 3-4 shoots with healthy roots.
The newly divided sections can be planted immediately in a sunny location with well-draining soil. They should be watered well and kept moist until established.
Disease Management
Calamagrostis expansa is generally not susceptible to many diseases. However, occasionally it can be affected by fungal diseases such as rusts, smuts, and leaf spots.
Rusts cause yellow or orange powdery spots on the leaves. Smuts cause black or brown masses on the plant. Leaf spots cause brown or black spots on the leaves. To prevent the spread of fungal diseases, remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
Fungicides can also be applied regularly as a preventative measure, but should be used sparingly to avoid environmental damage.
Pest Management
Calamagrostis expansa is generally not susceptible to many pests. However, occasionally it can be affected by aphids and grasshoppers.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They can be controlled by washing them off with a strong jet of water or by applying insecticidal soap or oil.
Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on leaves and stems. They can be controlled by using physical barriers such as mesh netting or by applying insecticides.
It's important to note that insecticides can also harm beneficial insects, so they should be used as a last resort. Integrated pest management techniques, such as planting companion plants that repel pests, using sticky traps, and encouraging natural predators can also be effective in controlling pests.
