Overview
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov., also known as St. Augustinegrass, is a perennial warm-season grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This grass variety is native to the West Indies and the Gulf of Mexico but can now be found in many subtropical and tropical regions worldwide, including the southern United States.
Appearance
St. Augustinegrass features broad leaves with a slightly bluish-green hue and a coarse texture. The grass blades are flat and can reach up to 9 cm in length and 1 cm in width. The grass has a shallow root system and spreads through stolons, making it an excellent choice for ground cover.
Common names
St. Augustinegrass is also known as buffalo turf, Charleston grass, Palmetto grass, and southern grass.
Uses
St. Augustinegrass is a popular choice for lawn and turf in subtropical and tropical regions. It is also used in pastures for grazing animals. The grass is low maintenance and does well in a variety of soils, making it an excellent choice for residential and commercial landscaping. Additionally, it can help prevent soil erosion and improve water quality.
Light Requirements
Cynodon dactylon var. glabratus thrives in bright sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. The plant may not grow well in shaded areas and may experience stunted growth and reduced foliage density.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for the growth of Cynodon dactylon var. glabratus is between 24°C to 32°C. It can also tolerate high temperatures of up to 40°C, but growth may be slower under these conditions. Temperatures below 15°C may result in slow growth and susceptibility to diseases.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It can also tolerate different types of soil, such as sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for growth. Cynodon dactylon var. glabratus can also thrive in soils with moderate salinity levels. However, waterlogged soils can lead to stunted growth and fungal infections.
Cultivation Methods
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov. is a warm-season, perennial grass commonly known as "Tifton 85". It can be propagated through planting sprigs, sods, or seed. The best time to plant is during early spring and late summer to early fall. It requires full sun exposure and well-draining soil for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov. needs regular watering for the first few weeks after planting to establish roots. Afterward, it requires moderate watering, with an average of one inch of water per week. It is drought-tolerant, but prolonged dryness can inhibit its growth.
Fertilization
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov. needs regular fertilization to maintain its growth and quality. A balanced fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) ratio of 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 is suitable. Apply the fertilizer during early spring and early fall to ensure continuous growth.
Pruning
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov. requires regular pruning to remove dead leaves and maintain its height. The ideal height for this grass is around two to three inches. Prune it at least twice a month during the growing season to keep its height and thickness in check.
Propagation of Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov.
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov., commonly known as Coast cross grass, is commonly propagated vegetatively. The following are the methods of propagation:
Stolon division
Coast cross grass can be propagated by stolon division. This method involves the removal of runners or stolons from the parent plant and planting them in a new location. Stolons should be planted at a depth of 1 cm in well-prepared soil. After planting, regular watering is necessary until roots and new sprouts have formed.
Sod planting
Sod planting is another method of propagating Coast cross grass. Sod planting involves cutting the grass into small pieces and planting them in the desired location. Sod planting is best done during the early growing season or in the fall to give the new plants enough time to establish roots before extreme weather conditions.
Seed propagation
Although Coast cross grass can be propagated by seeding, this method is not preferred because seeds can be slow to germinate, and seedlings may take a long time to establish. However, if required, seeds should be sown in a well-prepared seedbed at a depth of 1 cm and kept moist until germination. Seed propagation should be done during the early growing season.
Disease Management
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov. is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Leaf spot
- Fusarium patch
- Pythium blight
To manage these diseases, proper cultural practices are necessary, such as maintaining proper soil drainage, mowing at the correct height, and applying proper fertilization. Fungicides can also be applied, but this should be used as a last resort.
Pest Management
There are different pests that can adversely affect Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. glabratus (Steud.) Chiov., some of which are:
- Sod webworms
- Armyworms
- White grubs
To manage pests, proper irrigation and well-timed fertilization can enhance turf growth, making it less susceptible to infestation. Pesticides can also be utilized, but using them judiciously is essential. Natural enemies, like parasitic wasps and nematodes, can also help reduce pest populations.
