General Information
Dichanthelium strigosum (Muhl. ex Ell.) Freckmann, also known as hairy panicgrass, is a species of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is native to North America, where it grows in fields, open forests, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and pastures.
Description
The plant can grow up to 90 cm tall and has an upright habit. Its leaves are linear and narrow, measuring up to 15 cm long and 1 cm wide. The inflorescence is a panicle that appears in late summer and early fall, and it is composed of numerous densely packed spikelets which measure 5-7 mm long. The spikelets are arranged in pairs along the axis of the panicle.
Uses
Dichanthelium strigosum is not typically used for any specific purpose, but it does play an important role in the ecosystem. It provides food and habitat for various insects and vertebrates, including birds and small mammals. Additionally, it helps to prevent soil erosion and stabilizes the soil in areas that are prone to erosion.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as hairy panicgrass, but it also has other common names such as tall panicgrass, long-haired witchgrass, and long-awned witchgrass.
Light Requirements:
Dichanthelium strigosum thrives in partial sunlight to full sunlight conditions. It prefers open and sunny habitats with some shade. This plant species can tolerate both direct and indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements:
Dichanthelium strigosum typically grows in areas with temperate to subtropical climates. It prefers moist and cool environments with moderate to high humidity levels. The ideal temperature range for the growth of this plant species is between 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. However, it can tolerate a wider range of temperatures, from around -6 to 35 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements:
Dichanthelium strigosum can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy and clay soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils with medium fertility levels. This plant species can even survive in drought-like conditions, but it requires periodic watering for optimal growth. In general, moist and well-drained soil is ideal for this plant species. Furthermore, it can tolerate acidic to slightly alkaline soil conditions, with a pH range of about 5 to 7.5.
Cultivation methods for Dichanthelium strigosum
When planting Dichanthelium strigosum, it's essential to consider the type of soil that suits it best. This plant prefers well-drained, moist, sandy, or loamy soils and requires full sun to partial shade. Dig a hole that's double the size of the plant container and add compost or organic matter to improve the soil conditions. Transplant the seedlings at a distance of 30 cm apart.
Watering needs for Dichanthelium strigosum
Dichanthelium strigosum requires moist soil, but it shouldn't be soaked in water. Water the plant regularly, especially during the first growing season, to ensure it establishes enough roots to tap into the soil moisture. It's recommended to water when the soil feels dry at the top because overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal infections.
Fertilization of Dichanthelium strigosum
Dichanthelium strigosum doesn't require excessive fertilization, but it can benefit from a dose of slow-release fertilizer in the spring or compost tea. Using too much synthetic fertilizer can damage the plant and lead to nitrogen leaching and water pollution. Organic alternatives such as bone meal, blood meal, and fish emulsion can boost the growth and health of Dichanthelium strigosum.
Pruning Dichanthelium strigosum
Dichanthelium strigosum doesn't require pruning because it's a low-maintenance plant; however, it benefits from occasional shearing or trimming to maintain its desired shape. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges, or during the summer after the seed heads have formed. Remove any dead or damaged branches, but avoid pruning more than a third of the plant's foliage because it can hinder its growth and blooming.
Propagation Methods for Dichanthelium strigosum
Dichanthelium strigosum is commonly propagated through seeds because of its natural tendency to self-seed. However, vegetative propagation methods can also be employed to create new plants.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Dichanthelium strigosum should be collected in late fall or early winter, just before the first frost. The seeds are small, black, and oblong with a shiny, smooth surface. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool, dry location until ready for planting.
Propagation of Dichanthelium strigosum from seeds can be done in two ways: direct sowing or indoor seed starting.
Direct sowing is done in late fall, where the seeds are sown into moist soil surface in a well-draining area that receives full sunlight. The seeds will germinate in the spring when soil temperatures increase. Alternatively, indoor seed starting can be done in early spring by planting the seeds in small pots with soil mix, and placing them under a grow light.
Vegetative Propagation
Dichanthelium strigosum can be propagated vegetatively through root division, stem cuttings, or layering.
Root division involves digging up a mature plant, and separating the roots into sections, each containing a growing point. These sections are then replanted in a new location. Stem cuttings can be taken from early to mid-summer, where a section of stem with a leaf node is cut and rooted in potting mix. Layering is done by bending a low-lying stem to the ground and covering it with soil to create a new rooting system. The new plant can then be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Dichanthelium strigosum thrives in well-drained soil with full sunlight, and regular watering.
Disease Management for Dichanthelium Strigosum
Dichanthelium strigosum is not a commonly cultivated plant and there is limited information on diseases that affect it. However, in general, plants in this genus are susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spots and rusts. To manage such diseases, it is important to minimize leaf wetness, increase air circulation and practice good sanitation.
Avoid overhead irrigation and do not water in the evening. This will help reduce leaf wetness and prevent the spread of disease. Good air circulation can be achieved by spacing plants properly and removing any weeds or debris that might be preventing air movement. When pruning, always use sterilized equipment to prevent the spread of disease.
If you notice any signs of disease on your Dichanthelium strigosum, remove and destroy any infected foliage to prevent the disease from spreading. You may also choose to use a fungicide, although this is not always necessary.
Pest Management for Dichanthelium Strigosum
Similarly, there is also limited information on pests that attack Dichanthelium strigosum. However, in general, plants in this genus are known to be relatively pest-free. The only pests that have been reported include the larvae of leaf-rolling moths and sawflies, which can cause significant damage to foliage.
To manage these pests, keep a close eye on your plants and inspect them regularly for signs of damage. If you notice rolled or damaged leaves, remove them and destroy any larvae you find. You may also consider using an insecticide, although this is not always necessary.
Finally, as with any pest or disease management strategy, the best approach is prevention. By practicing good cultural practices, choosing healthy plants, and providing optimal growing conditions, you can reduce the likelihood of pest and disease problems occurring in the first place.
