Overview
Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. is a perennial grass that is commonly known as Wavy Hair-grass. It is native to Europe and North America and is commonly found in meadows, heaths, and open woodlands.
Description
The plant has a tufted growth habit and can grow up to 70cm in height. The leaves are narrow and have a rough texture. The inflorescence is panicle-like, and the flowers are small and spike-like.
Common Names
Deschampsia flexuosa is commonly known by the following names:
- Wavy Hair-grass
- Dwarf Hair Grass
- Flexuous Hair-grass
- Brown Bentgrass
Uses
Deschampsia flexuosa is commonly used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and disturbed areas, and for re-vegetation of wetlands and other disturbed habitats.
Light Requirements
Deschampsia flexuosa requires full to partial sunlight exposure to grow. It is adapted to growing in open or partially shaded habitats, where it can receive sufficient sunlight for photosynthesis.
Temperature Requirements
Deschampsia flexuosa can tolerate cold temperatures and is adapted to growing in cool climates. It can withstand temperatures as low as -25°C and can grow in regions with average annual temperatures of 4-16°C.
Soil Requirements
Deschampsia flexuosa can grow on a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soils. It can tolerate acidic soils with pH values ranging from 4.5 to 6.5. It can also grow on nutrient-poor soils, such as those found in heathlands and moorlands.
Cultivation methods
Deschampsia flexuosa is a cool-season grass that thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.0-7.0. It can grow in full sun or partial shade. The plant can be grown from seed, plugs, or sod.
Watering needs
Deschampsia flexuosa requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, particularly during the first growing season. However, avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
Deschampsia flexuosa does not require much fertilization. A yearly application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring is sufficient. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive leaf growth and a weaker root system.
Pruning
Deschampsia flexuosa generally does not require much pruning. However, to promote healthy growth, cut the grass back to a height of 4-6 inches in the early spring before new growth begins. This will remove any dead or damaged growth from the previous season.
Propagation of Deschampsia flexuosa
Deschampsia flexuosa (L.) Trin. is propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces seed heads that contain small seeds. The seed heads can be collected once they have dried on the plant. The seeds can be sown directly in the ground or started indoors. To start the seeds indoors, they should be sown in pots filled with a well-draining seed starting mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. They should be placed in a location with bright, indirect light. Once the seedlings have emerged and grown to a few inches tall, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Asexual Propagation
Deschampsia flexuosa can also be propagated asexually through division. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring before new growth appears. The plant should be dug up, and the clumps can be divided into smaller pieces. Each piece should have several shoots and a good root system. The divided clumps can be replanted in a new location.
Disease Management for Deschampsia flexuosa
Deschampsia flexuosa is relatively resistant to diseases. However, the plant may develop foliar fungal diseases such as rust, smut, and leaf spot. These diseases are often caused by various fungal pathogens and can lead to reduced growth and yield.
To manage foliar fungal diseases, regular monitoring of the plant is necessary. Remove and destroy infected plant parts as soon as the symptoms appear. Avoid overhead irrigation and improve air circulation around the plants by planting at the recommended distance. Fungicidal sprays may also be used to protect uninfected plants from the disease.
Pest Management for Deschampsia flexuosa
Deschampsia flexuosa is generally pest-resistant, but some insect pests may still attack the plant. Common pests include aphids, snails, and slugs, which can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plants.
To manage pest infestations, regularly inspect the plants, and remove any affected parts. Encourage the presence of predator insects such as ladybugs and lacewings that feed on pests. You can also use insecticidal sprays for severe infestations. Installing copper tapes around the base of the plants can deter snails and slugs.
