Dichelachne Micrantha (cav.) Domin - Plumegrass

Origin and Common Names

Dichelachne micrantha (Cav.) Domin, commonly known as dwarf plume grass, is a small perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is native to Australia but can also be found in some parts of Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America.

Appearance

The dwarf plume grass has a compact form and typically grows up to 30–50 cm tall. The plant has flat, finely textured leaves that are around 5–20 cm long and 2–6 mm wide. The stems are slender and erect, and the flowers are arranged in a spike-like panicle that is around 5–17 cm long. The flowers have tiny white or pale pinkish-purple spikelets and bloom from summer to early autumn.

Uses

Dichelachne micrantha is often used as an ornamental grass in gardens and landscaping due to its compact size and attractive appearance. It is also used in erosion control projects and for stabilizing soil on embankments and slopes. As a native plant, the dwarf plume grass is considered an important part of Australian ecosystems and is used in restoration projects to help maintain the biodiversity of the area. Additionally, the plant is a valuable food source for native animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, and other grazers.

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Light Requirements

Dichelachne micrantha (Cav.) Domin thrives well in full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in decreased plant growth and flowering. Therefore, it is recommended to plant this species in areas with good exposure to sunlight.

Temperature Requirements

Dichelachne micrantha (Cav.) Domin can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from 15 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, it prefers temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. During the colder months, this species can become dormant but will start growing again once temperatures begin to rise.

Soil Requirements

Dichelachne micrantha (Cav.) Domin grows best in well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, and clay soils. However, this species requires soil with good fertility because it is a heavy feeder. Therefore, it is recommended to add organic matter and fertilizers to the soil to enhance plant growth and development.

Cultivation of Dichelachne micrantha

Dichelachne micrantha is a low-growing grass that thrives in a range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and gravelly soils. It prefers full sunlight and moderate moisture levels but is exceptionally drought tolerant.

When planting Dichelachne micrantha, ensure that the site is well-draining and free of weeds. The best time to plant the grass is in the spring or fall. Seeds can be sown directly into the ground, or mature plants can be transplanted into their final location.

Watering Needs for Dichelachne micrantha

After planting, Dichelachne micrantha requires consistent watering until it is established. Once established, the plant is drought tolerant and does not require additional watering unless the soil is bone dry or weather conditions are exceptionally hot and dry.

In general, it is better to underwater rather than overwater Dichelachne micrantha. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.

Fertilizing Dichelachne micrantha

Dichelachne micrantha requires minimal fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote vigorous growth.

Too much nitrogen or phosphorus can cause the grass to become lush and leafy, which makes it more susceptible to disease and pests. Therefore, it is best to avoid over-fertilizing Dichelachne micrantha.

Pruning Dichelachne micrantha

Dichelachne micrantha is a low-growing grass that does not require pruning. However, if you want to keep it in a tidy, compact shape, you can trim it back to 3-5 inches in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

If the grass becomes overgrown or too leggy, you can also remove the oldest, tallest blades of grass to encourage new growth and maintain a more uniform shape. However, this is not necessary for the health of the plant and should be done sparingly.

Propagation of Dichelachne Micrantha

Dichelachne Micrantha, commonly known as slender roly-poly, is a hardy ornamental plant that is native to South America. Propagation of Dichelachne Micrantha can be achieved through various methods, which include:

Seed Propagation

Seed propagation is the most common method used for Dichelachne Micrantha. To propagate the plant through seeds, the seeds are sown directly into fertile soil without covering them with too much soil. The seeds take about two to three weeks to start germinating and should be kept moist throughout this period. Once the plant has outgrown the seedling stage, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.

Division

Division is another propagation method that can be used for Dichelachne Micrantha. To propagate the plant through this method, the plant is lifted from the ground and separated into smaller sections. Each of the separated sections should have healthy roots and shoots to ensure successful propagation. The separated sections are then transplanted into their permanent location, ensuring that they are sufficiently watered.

Cutting

Cutting is another propagation method used for Dichelachne Micrantha. To propagate the plant through this method, cuttings are taken from the plant's stem, making sure that each cutting is four to six inches in length with at least one node. The cuttings are then dipped into rooting hormone and planted in seedling trays filled with moist soil. The trays are covered with a plastic sheet to maintain the required humidity levels. After about four weeks, the cuttings will have formed roots, and they can then be transplanted into their permanent location.

Disease Management

Dichelachne micrantha is generally a healthy plant species, but in certain environmental conditions, it can be affected by some diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:

Leaf Spot

Leaf spot is a common fungal disease of Dichelachne micrantha. You can manage this disease by removing the infected plant parts and improving air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and apply fungicides if necessary.

Smuts

Smuts are fungal diseases that cause black masses of spores. To manage this disease, remove the entire infected plant and destroy it. Avoid replanting in the same location and use disease-resistant varieties when possible.

Mosaic Viruses

Mosaic viruses can cause distorted growth and mottled leaves. To prevent this disease, use virus-free seeds and avoid handling plants while they are wet. Control the aphid population as they can transmit the virus to the plant.

Pest Management

Here are some common pests that might affect Dichelachne micrantha and ways to manage them:

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant. You can remove them through water spray or by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Predatory insects like ladybugs and lacewings can also help control their population.

Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers can cause severe damage to the plant by eating its leaves. You can manage their population by removing weeds and tall grasses in the surrounding area. Applying sticky bands to the plant stems can also prevent the grasshoppers from climbing up. Using insecticides is also an option.

Mites

Mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant sap and cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. You can manage them by applying a forceful water spray or using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing predatory mites can also help control their population.