Overview
Calamagrostis stricta (Timm) Koel. var. lacustris (Kearney) C.W. Greene, commonly known as lake barren-reedgrass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is endemic to North America and is native to the United States and Canada. This plant is a popular ornamental grass, and it is often grown in gardens and landscapes as an accent plant.
Appearance
Lake barren-reedgrass is a tall, erect grass that can grow up to 4 feet in height. It has slender, wiry stems that are bright green in color. The leaves are narrow and flat and can grow up to 10 inches long and 0.2 inches wide. The inflorescence is a narrow, spike-like panicle that can reach up to 12 inches long and 0.2 inches wide. The panicle is composed of numerous small, spikelet-like flowers that are whitish-green in color.
Uses
Lake barren-reedgrass has various uses, and it is valued for its ornamental appeal and environmental significance. The plant's tall and slender stems make it a popular option for creating screens or hedges in landscapes. Additionally, it is a useful plant for soil stabilization, preventing erosion in areas prone to landslides or flooding. Furthermore, the grass provides habitat for numerous wildlife species.
In terms of ecological significance, lake barren-reedgrass is adapted to live in wetland environments, making it an important species for conserving and restoring wetland habitats. It is also an excellent plant for phytoremediation, which is the process of using plants to remove pollutants from the environment. The roots of the plant have the ability to absorb excess nutrients and contaminants from the soil, including nitrogen and phosphorus, helping to purify water sources.
Common Names
The common names for Calamagrostis stricta (Timm) Koel. var. lacustris (Kearney) C.W. Greene include lake barren-reedgrass, narrow-leaved reedgrass, slender reedgrass, and salt meadow grass. These names are a reflection of the plant's physical characteristics and its habitat preferences.
Light Requirements
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In shaded areas, the plant tends to elongate and become weaker, while in full sun, it tends to grow denser and sturdier.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to temperate climates and can withstand low temperatures of up to ?40°C. While the plant can tolerate harsh cold conditions, it prefers milder temperatures for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris is between 16-24°C.
Soil Requirements
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris is not too specific when it comes to soil requirements. The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, from sandy soils to poorly drained clay soils. However, the ideal soil for the plant is moist and well-drained with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant is sufficiently tolerant of soil acidity.
Cultivation Methods
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris is a hardy perennial grass that thrives best in moist to wet soil conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate cold temperatures and frost.
The plant is best propagated through seed or division of mature clumps. If propagating through divisions, it is advisable to replant in early spring or fall to ensure proper establishment before the onset of winter.
Watering Needs
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is important to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot and plant death.
A deep watering once a week should suffice in most cases, but this may vary depending on the soil type, weather conditions, and other external factors.
Fertilization
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help to promote healthy growth and flowering.
It is important to avoid over-fertilization, which can result in excessive vegetative growth and weak stems.
Pruning
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris does not require heavy pruning, but removing dead or damaged foliage and spent flower stems can help to improve the plant's appearance and encourage new growth.
Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation of Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris, commonly known as lake or marsh reed grass, is a tall grass species native to North America. This plant can be propagated through different methods, including by seed, division, and rhizome.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is one of the most common methods used to propagate Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris. The seeds can be sown directly into well-prepared soil in the spring or fall. It is important to make sure the seeds are not covered with more than 1/4 inch of soil, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist until the seeds have germinated and established roots.
Propagation by Division
Division involves separating established plants into smaller parts and replanting them. This method is useful in rejuvenating clumps that have become too congested or old. Division should be done in the spring or fall, as Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris is a cool-season grass. To divide the plant, use a spade or fork to separate the clump into sections and replant each section in a prepared location.
Propagation by Rhizome
Propagation by rhizomes involves taking sections of the plant's underground stems and replanting them. This method is useful for establishing new plants in areas where they are not yet present. Rhizomes should be planted in well-prepared soil in the spring or fall and kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management for Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris
Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris is generally a healthy plant with no serious disease outbreaks reported. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to some diseases under certain conditions. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and their management:
Leaf Spotting Diseases
Leaf spotting diseases may occur due to over-watering and poor air circulation. They are characterized by the appearance of yellow to brown spots on the leaves. Fungal pathogens such as Helminthosporium may cause this disease.
Management involves removing the infected leaves and preventing the spread of the disease through practice of good cultural practices. Proper watering, timely fertilization, and proper sanitation are critical in preventing infection.
Root Rot
Root rot may occur due to overwatering, poor soil drainage, and other environmental factors. It manifests in the appearance of yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. Fungi-like Pythium can cause this disease.
Management involves proper soil drainage and proper watering. Also, planting resistant cultivars can help prevent root rot. If the rot is severe, it may be necessary to remove the plant and dispose of it completely to avoid spreading the disease.
Pest Management for Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris
Similar to diseases, pests can cause damage to plants, including Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris. Here are a few common pests and their management:
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers are common pests that eat the leaves and shoots of plants, causing damage. They are controlled by various methods such as using chemical pesticides, physical removal, and biological control methods such as introducing predators like birds and praying mantis.
Mites and Aphids
Mites and aphids can suck plant fluids from stems and leaves, causing wilting and yellowing. Management involves the use of insecticidal soaps, oil sprays, and releasing beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
Cutworms
Cutworms are insect larvae that live under the soil and cut the plants' stems at soil level, causing the plant to wilt. Management involves using biological control methods such as introducing nematodes. Physical barriers such as cardboard collars can also be used.
Overall, maintaining good cultural practices can help prevent most pests and diseases. Early detection and prompt control actions are essential to managing both pests and diseases that might affect Calamagrostis stricta var. lacustris.
