Origin
Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange is a plant species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to northern Europe, particularly in the Arctic regions such as Greenland, Iceland, Lapland, and Svalbard.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Arctic reedgrass, Lapland reedgrass, and Greenland reedgrass.
Uses
Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange has several uses. It serves as a food source for wildlife, particularly for reindeer in the Arctic tundra. The plant is also used as an ornamental grass in gardens or landscapes due to its attractive appearance. Moreover, its leaves are utilized in traditional medicine as a diuretic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory agent.
General Appearance
Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange is a perennial grass that grows up to 70 cm tall. Its stems are erect and slender, and its leaves are narrow and flat. The inflorescence is a dense, cylindrical spike-like panicle that measures about 10 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. The flowers are generally green or purplish and have awns that are approximately the same length as the lemma.
Light Requirements
Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica grows best in full sun but can tolerate some shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. In areas with hot summers, it should be planted in an area that receives shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent scorching of the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica prefers moderate to cool climates. It thrives in areas with cool summers and winter temperatures that do not drop below -40°F (-40°C). In warmer areas, it should be planted in a location that receives shade during the hottest part of the day.
Soil Requirements
Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica thrives in well-drained soils that are evenly moist. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not do well in soils that are consistently waterlogged or dry. It prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.0-6.5.
Cultivation
Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange, commonly known as Arctic reed grass, is a wild grass species that can grow in various climatic conditions. However, in cultivation, it requires specific conditions to thrive and produce optimal growth.
When planting Arctic reed grass, it is important to consider its natural habitat, which is in wetlands and moist meadows in the sub-Arctic regions, to provide a similar environment. The plant prefers well-drained soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH levels and partial to full sunshine.
It is best to plant Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange in the fall or early spring, as it allows the seedlings ample time to establish their roots for healthy growth.
Watering Needs
Like most grass species, Arctic reed grass requires consistent moisture to thrive. Overwatering or underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. It is important to maintain moist soil without flooding or waterlogging the roots. In addition, the plant requires a high level of humidity. Therefore, it is best to keep the soil damp and the surrounding atmosphere humid.
Fertilization
Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange does not require regular fertilization, as it is an adaptable species that can obtain nutrients from the soil. However, for faster and more robust growth, occasional fertilization can be beneficial. Using organic fertilizers that slowly release nutrients can be more effective than chemical fertilizers. It is best to fertilize the plant during the late spring and early summer months, starting with a light application.
Pruning
Arctic reed grass requires minimal pruning, as it tends to grow in an upright shape without sprawling or becoming invasive. However, it is best to keep the plant neat and tidy by removing any yellow or brown leaves that may appear. Additionally, it is essential to remove any old foliage around the plant's base during the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica
Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica, commonly known as Greenland reedgrass, is a cool-season perennial grass that is native to Arctic and alpine regions. It is a slow-growing grass that spreads by rhizomes and seeds, and it usually requires a cold stratification to germinate successfully. There are several propagation methods that can be used to propagate Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica.
Propagation by seed
The most common propagation method for Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica is by seed. The seeds of this grass require a period of cold stratification to break their dormancy. This can be achieved by sowing the seeds in the fall or by placing them in a container of moist sand or peat moss and storing them in a cold location for several weeks to several months. Once the seeds have been stratified, they can be sown in pots or directly in the ground. The seeds usually take 8-10 weeks to germinate.
Propagation by division
Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. To divide the plant, dig it up and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a good root system. Replant the sections in their desired location, making sure to water them well.
Caring for newly propagated plants
Whether using seeds or division, it is important to provide proper care for newly propagated Calamagrostis lapponica var. groenlandica plants. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide plenty of light but avoid direct sunlight until the plants are established. Once the plants have developed a strong root system, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Disease Management
Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange is generally a hardy plant that is not usually affected by major diseases. However, the plant may occasionally suffer from the following diseases:
- Leaf rust: This disease is caused by a fungus and can lead to yellow-orange pustules on leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune affected leaves and provide proper air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This disease can occur in humid environments and cause white powdery spots on leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove infected plant parts and provide adequate spacing between plants to reduce humidity.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that live in the soil and can lead to wilted, yellow leaves and stunted growth. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove infected plants and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange is generally resistant to pests. However, the plant may occasionally suffer from the following pests:
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on plant sap and cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage this pest, it is recommended to use a natural insecticide or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Spider mites: These tiny, spider-like insects can also feed on plant sap and cause discoloration of leaves. To manage this pest, it is recommended to use a natural insecticide or spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the mites.
Overall, maintaining healthy plant growth through proper watering, fertilization, and pruning can help prevent diseases and pests from affecting Calamagrostis lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartman var. groenlandica Lange.
