Description of Calamagrostis Neglecta (Ehrh.) P.G. Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb. var. Micrantha (Kearney) Stebbins
Calamagrostis neglecta (Ehrh.) P.G. Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb. var. micrantha (Kearney) Stebbins, also commonly referred to as Small-flowered Reed Grass, is a warm-season perennial grass native to North America. This plant is commonly found growing in the moist, open forests, along riverbanks and lakeshores and in meadows and prairies throughout the Western United States.
General Appearance of Calamagrostis Neglecta
Calamagrostis neglecta typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet and can spread by rhizomes. It has a clump-forming growth habit and produces narrow, erect, bluish-green leaves that have a coarse texture. The plant grows well in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils.
Uses of Calamagrostis Neglecta
Calamagrostis neglecta is commonly used in landscaping to add texture and height to a garden. It can also be grown as a groundcover and erosion control plant on steep slopes and in drainage ditches. In addition, the plant is a valuable source of forage for livestock and can be used in wildlife habitat restoration projects.
In conclusion, Calamagrostis neglecta is a versatile, native grass species that has both ornamental and practical applications. Its ability to thrive in a range of conditions makes it a valuable addition to any garden or natural area.
hereLight Requirements
Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha thrives in partial to full sun. In areas with harsh summers, it prefers partial shade. Inadequate exposure to sunlight may halt growth or result in the plant leaning towards the source of light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha is between 15 to 27 degrees Celsius. It grows best in areas with mild summers and winters and can survive temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above the preferred range may cause stunted growth or loss of leaves and flowers.
Soil Requirements
Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha thrives in nutrient-rich soil with good drainage. It can grow in soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. The plant is tolerant of loamy, clay, and sandy soils. It requires moderate levels of moisture, and soil should be kept moist, not waterlogged.
Cultivation
Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha is a versatile plant that can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. The plant can tolerate some drought but performs best when the soil is consistently moist.
Watering
To keep the soil consistently moist, water Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha deeply once a week, especially during periods of drought. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha does not require frequent fertilization. However, it will benefit from a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer applied in the early spring. Consult with your local garden center for the appropriate fertilization amounts and schedule.
Pruning
Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha typically does not require regular pruning. However, you can remove spent foliage in the late winter or early spring to encourage new growth. If the plant becomes crowded or too large for its space, divide it in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Calamagrostis Neglecta Var. Micrantha
Calamagrostis neglecta (Ehrh.) P.G. Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb. var. micrantha (Kearney) Stebbins, commonly known as Smallflower Reedgrass, is an ornamental grass that can be propagated by various methods. Some of these methods are as follows:
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagating Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha is through the use of its seeds. The seeds of this ornamental grass can be sown either indoors or outdoors, depending upon the climatic conditions. In case of outdoor sowing, one should wait until the soil temperature reaches around 60°F, which usually happens during spring. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, and kept moist until germination. Germination usually takes 10-14 days. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 2-3 inches, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
Division is another common method of propagating Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha. The best time for dividing the plants is during late winter or early spring when the grass is still dormant. This method involves digging up the entire clump and dividing it into smaller sections. Each section should have both roots and foliage. These smaller sections should be replanted into well-draining soil, and kept moist until they are established.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha can also be done through cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from healthy mature plants, and rooting them in a soilless mix or water. The cuttings should be at least 4 inches long and should have a few nodes. They should be kept moist and in a warm location until rooted. Once rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
The above-mentioned propagation methods can be used to obtain new plants of Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha. However, it is important to remember that successful propagation depends upon many factors, including the health of the parent plant, the time of propagation, and climatic conditions.
Disease Management
Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha is a hardy plant, but certain diseases can still affect it. Some common diseases include:
- Fusarium patch: This fungal disease causes brown patches on the leaves. To manage it, remove and destroy affected leaves and ensure the plant is not overwatered.
- Crown rust: This fungal disease is identified by orange or brown spores on the foliage. Manage it by removing infected leaves and applying fungicides if necessary.
- Leaf smut: This disease causes the leaves to twist and turn black. Remove and destroy affected leaves and use fungicides if necessary.
Preventing diseases is key to managing them. Ensure the plant is in a well-draining area, and do not overwater or over-fertilize the plant. Remove and destroy any affected leaves or debris to prevent the spread of disease. Fungicides can be used as a last resort.
Pest Management
Calamagrostis neglecta var. micrantha is generally not a target for pests, but there are a few that may cause damage:
- Grasshoppers: These insects can be managed by applying insecticides or installing physical barriers like screens.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can be managed by handpicking them off the plant or using slug pellets or other physical barriers.
- Mites: These tiny pests can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
To prevent pest problems, ensure the plant is healthy and not stressed. Monitor the plant for any signs of pest activity, and act quickly to prevent an infestation from getting out of hand. Encouraging natural predators like birds or insects that eat pests can also be helpful in managing pest problems.
