Origin
Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. var. montana (L.) Ducomm., commonly known as mountain hair grass or wavy hair grass, is a cool season perennial grass native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It is commonly found in meadows, pastures, and open woodland areas in alpine and sub-alpine habitats.
Common Names
Mountain hair grass is commonly known by different names including wavy hair grass, mountain brome, tufted hair grass, and tangled hair grass.
Uses
The plant is often used as an ornamental grass for landscaping and for erosion control in areas with poor soil stabilization. In some regions, it is also used for reclamation and restoration of disturbed areas. Additionally, the plant has been used for medicinal purposes by some indigenous communities to alleviate pain, inflammation, and fever.
General Appearance
The plant has a typical height of 15-40 cm, with a tufted form and erect stems. Its leaves are narrow, rolled, and wavy, with a slightly blue-green hue. Its inflorescence is a loose panicle, ranging from 5-20 cm long, with long hair-like awns that give it the appearance of floating gracefully in the wind. The flowers are small and green, blooming from June to August.
Light Requirements
Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana prefers to grow in partially shaded or full sun areas. However, it can also tolerate light shade and may thrive under high light conditions. In areas with very low light, the plant may grow tall and spindly as it tries to reach for light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, including cold, frosty conditions. However, it does not tolerate high temperatures very well. The ideal temperature for growth is between 10°C to 20°C. During the winter, the plant can survive under deep snow cover and emerged in the spring unaffected.
Soil Requirements
Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, sand, or clay soils. It prefers well-drained soil, and tolerates various soil pH levels. The plant grows well in sites with high organic content, and may even grow in areas with poor topsoil or bare rock surface. In general, the plant is found in acidic to neutral soil types.
Cultivation Methods
Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. var. montana (L.) Ducomm. thrives in moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It can also grow in poor, rocky, or sandy soils. This plant can be propagated by seed, division, or transplantation.
Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent the onset of root rot. During dry periods, the plant can be watered deeply once a week. Daily misting of the foliage can also be done to increase humidity.
Fertilization
Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. var. montana (L.) Ducomm. does not require heavy fertilization. A small amount of balanced fertilizer applied in the spring and midsummer can be beneficial, but over-fertilization can lead to rapid growth, weak stems, and decreased flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. var. montana (L.) Ducomm. is not necessary, but it can help to maintain the plant's shape and remove dead or damaged foliage. Deadheading can also encourage repeated blooming, but it is not required for the plant to thrive.
Propagation of Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana
Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana, commonly known as mountain hairgrass, is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. This plant grows well in hardiness zones 3 to 8 and is commonly found in rocky alpine areas. Propagation of Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common ways to propagate Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana is through seed propagation. This plant produces seeds that can be harvested in late summer and early fall. The seeds should be sown immediately or stored in a cool and dry place until spring when they can be sown. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and should be covered lightly with soil. The seeds should be kept moist until germination.
Division Propagation
Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in early spring before new growth appears. The plant can be divided by carefully digging up the plant and separating the clumps. Each clump should have a good root system and several healthy shoots. The clumps can be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until new growth appears.
Cutting Propagation
Another way to propagate Deschampsia flexuosa var. montana is through cutting propagation. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the plant in early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long and should have several leaves attached. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a warm and bright location until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. var. montana (L.) Ducomm.
Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. var. montana (L.) Ducomm., commonly known as Mountain hair grass, is a perennial grass species that is native to Europe and Asia. It is generally hardy and low-maintenance, but like all plants, it can be affected by diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that might affect Deschampsia flexuosa and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fusarium Blight: This fungal disease shows up as yellow or brown patches on leaves. It usually attacks plants that are stressed or weakened by poor growing conditions. To manage Fusarium blight, cut out and discard the affected areas of the plant. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant to prevent further spread.
Rust: Rust appears as yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by several fungal species and spreads rapidly in warm, humid conditions. To manage rust, remove and discard infected areas and leaves. You can spray the plant with a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. They often appear on the undersides of leaves and can be washed off with a strong blast of water. You can also apply an insecticidal soap to the plant to kill the aphids.
Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew holes in the leaves of the plant and leave slimy trails behind them. To manage slugs and snails, hand-pick them from the plant in the evening when they are most active. You can also create a barrier around the plant using a ring of copper tape or crushed eggshells.
By being vigilant about disease and pest management, you can help keep your Deschampsia flexuosa plants healthy and beautiful.
