Overview
Eleusine stolonifera R.Br. ex Salt. is a herbaceous plant species in the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as creeping bentgrass or spreading bentgrass and is native to Europe and Asia.
General Appearance
The creeping bentgrass plant has a creeping growth habit and is characterized by slender, flattened stems that root at the nodes. The stems can grow up to 60 cm in length and form dense mats or tufts, with the ability to spread laterally through stolons. The leaves are narrow, finely pointed, and generally 2 to 10 cm long, with a shiny dark green color and a glossy upper surface. The flowers are borne in erect clusters and typically bloom from May to July.
Common Names
Creeping bentgrass is commonly referred to by various names such as: creeping bent, spreading bent, velvet bent, or redtop bent. These names may differ depending on the region and dialect.
Uses
Creeping bentgrass is frequently used in both commercial and residential turf applications, particularly for golf courses and sports fields. Due to its dense matting and spreading habit, it can form a lush carpet-like turfgrass that is tolerant of close mowing and high foot traffic. It is highly adaptable to a variety of soil types and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. Additionally, it is used to stabilize land and prevent soil erosion because of its deep root system. Apart from this, the plant has been used in traditional medicine due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties.
Light Conditions
Eleusine stolonifera R.Br. ex Salt typically grows in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and prefers to be located in an open area, free from the shade of other plants, trees, or structures.
Temperature Requirements
Eleusine stolonifera R.Br. ex Salt is a warm-season grass, preferring temperatures between 70-85°F. It is tolerant of high temperatures and can withstand brief periods of drought. However, it does not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures, and will go dormant during the winter months in regions with cold winters.
Soil Conditions
Eleusine stolonifera R.Br. ex Salt can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay soils. It is tolerant of slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils (pH 5.5-7.5). However, it prefers well-drained soils with good organic matter content. It can tolerate soil salinity and has moderate salt tolerance.
Cultivation methods
Eleusine stolonifera R.Br. ex Salt, commonly known as Creeping grass, is a warm-season perennial grass that can be grown in various soil types, especially in sandy soils. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The best time for planting is in spring or early summer when the soil is warm.
Seed propagation is the most common method of cultivation, and the seed should be planted at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inches in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes 7-10 days.
Watering needs
Creeping grass requires moderate watering. It is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Established plants usually require about 1 inch of water per week. Watering early in the day is recommended to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
An application of nitrogen-rich fertilizer early in the growing season is beneficial for Creeping grass. The first application can be done in early spring, followed by another application in mid-summer. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for proper application rates.
Pruning
Creeping grass does not require frequent pruning, but it is recommended to cut back the grass to about 2-3 inches in late winter or early spring to promote new growth. This helps to keep the plant looking neat and healthy. Additionally, removing old, dead growth helps to maintain good air circulation, reducing the chances of disease and pests.
Propagation of Eleusine stolonifera R.Br. ex Salt
Eleusine stolonifera R.Br. ex Salt can propagate through several methods:
Seed Propagation
The plant can be propagated through seeds. Sow the seeds just below the soil surface randomly in the field. After sowing, irrigate the field immediately. Seeds will germinate within 5-7 days.
Vegetative Propagation
The plant can also be propagated vegetatively with its stolon. The stolons can be dug up, and divided into smaller segments. Each segment must contain a node and is then planted in the field. After planting, irrigate the field immediately.
Cutting Propagation
The plant can be propagated with cuttings taken from mature stems. Cuttings are made of the top 6 inches of the stem, including the leaf. Cuttings are then inserted into a prepared media. The cuttings must be watered and kept in a humid environment. It will take about 2 to 3 weeks for roots to develop. When the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into a field.
Disease Management
Eleusine stolonifera, commonly called crabgrass, is susceptible to a number of diseases, including:
- Brown patch disease
- Dollar spot
- Leaf spot
- Pythium blight
The best way to manage diseases in Eleusine stolonifera is to follow good cultural practices, such as proper irrigation, mowing height, and fertilization. Fungicides can also be used, but they are most effective when used in conjunction with cultural practices.
Pest Management
Eleusine stolonifera is also vulnerable to pest attacks, with some of the most common pests including:
- Annual bluegrass weevils
- Chinch bugs
- White grubs
To manage these pests, regular maintenance and monitoring is key. Biological control agents, such as nematodes, can be used to control white grubs, while insecticides can be used to control chinch bugs and annual bluegrass weevils. It is important to use the correct insecticides for each pest and to follow all instructions carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects and wildlife.
