Calamagrostis Fasciculata Kearney: Origin and Common Names
Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney, commonly known as Tufted hairgrass, is a species of grass that is native to North and Central America. It is widespread across the Great Plains, stretching from Canada to Mexico and can often be found in dry prairies, hillsides, and woodlands.
General Appearance
The Tufted hairgrass is a dense, tufted perennial grass that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has a narrow, erect growth habit with slender blades that are light green in color and about 1/4 inch wide. The plant produces an inflorescence that is a narrow, spikelike panicle, 4 to 12 inches long, with numerous yellowish or purplish flowers.
One characteristic feature of Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney is its deep and fibrous root system that helps the plant to withstand drought and high winds. It also helps the plant to adapt to a variety of soil types.
Uses
The Tufted hairgrass is primarily used for soil stabilization, erosion control, and landscaping purposes. This plant is particularly useful in restoring degraded habitats, as it can grow in different soil types, such as sandy or clayey soils. Additionally, it can tolerate a range of climatic conditions, from drought to moist soils.
In addition to its aesthetic value, the Tufted hairgrass also provides an important habitat for wildlife. Many small animals seek shelter in the plant's dense foliage, while larger herbivores, such as deer, use the plant as a food source.
Overall, Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney, or Tufted hairgrass, is a highly adaptable and useful plant species that plays an important role in restoring and maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Light Requirements
Calamagrostis fasciculata typically thrives in full sunlight and partial shade, but it can tolerate shade, albeit less vigorously. The grass species requires at least 4 hours of full direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and development. Although it can tolerate shady conditions, it may grow less tall and may not produce as many flowers as when grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in a variety of temperature conditions. It can withstand both heat and cold and thrives in climates with an average annual temperature of about 10°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures of up to 37°C and can survive in regions where the temperature drops to as low as -25°C.
Soil Requirements
Calamagrostis fasciculata is quite adaptive to different soil types, but it grows best in well-drained, organic-rich soils, especially loams and sandy loams. The plant does not thrive well in compacted soils and poorly-drained soil types, which increase the risk of root rot and other fungal diseases. For optimal growth and development, the soil pH should be between 5.0 and 7.0.
Cultivation Methods
Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney, commonly known as bunchgrass, is native to North America and can be cultivated in various regions with a dry and hot climate. Plant the grass in well-draining and fertile soil that is neutral or slightly acidic. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.0 and 7.5. Though adaptable, the bunchgrass prefers full sun and well-aerated soil. Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the container, place the grass in the hole, and backfill it with soil. Mulching the base of the grass helps it conserve moisture and reduces weed growth.
Watering Needs
Bunchgrass is a drought-resistant plant, and overwatering it can have adverse effects on the grass's growth and development. They prefer to be under-watered than over-watered. Once it is established, the bunchgrass needs watering only when the soil is dry to the touch. Ensure that the soil is well-drained; waterlogged soil can cause root rot. Water the grass deeply, once a week, till the water reaches about six inches deep or till the water starts to drain from the soil.
Fertilization
Bunchgrass is not a heavy feeder, and in most cases, it can grow well without fertilization. However, in areas with depleted soil, an application of a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, once in the spring can be beneficial. Overfertilizing the plant can result in excessive leaf growth, which can weaken the roots. The application of organic mulch like wood chips or compost can offer the grass essential nutrients and help retain moisture in the soil.
Pruning
Bunchgrass requires minimal maintenance, and pruning is primarily for aesthetic purposes. Cut back the grass stalks once they dry out and start to wither in the late fall or early winter. During this period, remove diseased or damaged leaves and cut the dry stems to about two or three inches above the crown. Avoid cutting the grass in spring since the regrowth is slow and weak. Bunchgrass has a clumping habit, and therefore, there is no need for dividing it since it does not spread as rapidly as other grass types.
Propagation of Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney
Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney, commonly known as tussock grass or bunchgrass, is a perennial grass that grows in large tufts and perfect for ornamental garden use. Propagation of Calamagrostis fasciculata can be done by seed or division.
Propagation by seed
The seed of Calamagrostis fasciculata should be sown in early spring in a cold frame or greenhouse. Before sowing, stratify the seed at a temperature of around 40°F (4°C) for two to four weeks. After stratification, sow the seed in a prepared soil mixture of compost, perlite, and sand. Keep the soil mois but avoiding waterlogging.
The seedlings will start to germinate after two to three weeks. Once they have grown to a size where they can be handled, transplant the seedlings into a larger container or individual pots for further growth. After the plants have grown large enough and developed a good root system, they can be planted outdoors in the garden where required.
Propagation by division
The division method is the easiest way to propagate Calamagrostis fasciculata, as it does not require any specific technique. Divide the established tussocks or clumps into small sections of two to three shoots each, making sure each section has enough roots to support the plant's growth.
Replant these sections into a prepared soil mixture similar to the seed-sowing mixture and keep it well-moist. Within a few weeks, the new plants will establish their roots, and they will start to show signs of growth above the soil surface.
Disease Management
Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney is susceptible to leaf spot diseases, which can cause tan to reddish-brown spots on the blades. To manage this, it is important to keep the area around the plant clean and to remove any infected leaves as soon as they are spotted. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure.
Crown and root rot are also common diseases that can affect the plant. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil has good drainage. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease if it does occur.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that affect Calamagrostis fasciculata Kearney is the spittlebug. These bugs produce a frothy substance that covers the plant and can cause stunting and yellowing. To manage this, it is important to wash off the frothy substance with water and to remove the bugs by hand. Insecticidal soaps can also be used as a management tool.
The plant can also be affected by aphids, which can cause curling and distortion of the leaves. To manage this, it is important to prune any affected areas and to remove the aphids by hand. Insecticidal soap can also be used as a preventative measure.
