Origin
Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus, commonly known as Alaska wild rye or Alaska blue wild rye, is a perennial grain and forage grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is found in Alaska and the Aleutian Islands of the United States, as well as in parts of Canada.
Common Names
Alaska wild rye is also commonly known as Alaska blue wild rye, Alaska wildrye, blue wild rye, Alaska wildrye grass, and alpine wildrye.
Uses
Alaska wild rye is primarily used for soil stabilization and erosion control because of its extensive root system; it is also used for revegetation and restoration projects in disturbed areas. The plant is also used as feed for livestock as it is a highly palatable and nutritious grass. Additionally, some Indigenous groups in Alaska have traditionally used Alaska wild rye for basket weaving and as a source of food.
Appearance
Alaska wild rye grows to a height of about 2-4 feet and has a clumping growth habit. The plant has broad, bluish-green leaves that are approximately 50 cm long and 10 mm wide. The inflorescence of the plant is a spike-like panicle that rises above the leaves and flowers in the late spring to early summer. The seeds of Alaska wild rye are typically 5-6 mm long and have a reddish-brown color.
Light Requirements
Elymus alaskanus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Löve ssp. alaskanus requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but will not grow as vigorously and its flowering may be reduced under such conditions. Therefore, it is better to grow it in an open area or at least in a place where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
As the name suggests, Elymus alaskanus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Löve ssp. alaskanus can tolerate cold temperatures and grows mainly in subalpine and alpine regions. It can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) and as high as 80°F (27°C). However, its growth is optimal in temperatures ranging from 50-65°F (10-18°C). It is also important to note that this plant requires a cold stratification period in order to germinate, which involves exposing the seeds to cold temperatures for several weeks to break dormancy.
Soil Requirements
Elymus alaskanus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Löve ssp. alaskanus grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It is also important to note that this plant can grow in nutrient-poor soils, but may benefit from a light application of fertilizer to enhance growth. In addition, it is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in dry soils, but regular watering can promote better growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods of Elymus alaskanus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Löve ssp. alaskanus
Elymus alaskanus is a hardy plant that requires minimal effort and maintenance from gardeners. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil that is not too alkaline. The ideal soil for this plant is sandy loam or clay loam with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It can be propagated through seeds or by division of the clumps.
Watering Needs of Elymus alaskanus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Löve ssp. alaskanus
Watering Elymus alaskanus is relatively easy. It requires moderate watering and prefers soil that is moist but not waterlogged. During the hot summer months, it may require more frequent watering due to the increased heat and dryness of the air. One method of ensuring that the plant does not become parched is to add mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilization of Elymus alaskanus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Löve ssp. alaskanus
Elymus alaskanus does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the early spring may be enough to boost its growth and keep the plant vigorous. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can have detrimental effects on the plant.
Pruning of Elymus alaskanus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Löve ssp. alaskanus
Elymus alaskanus is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much pruning. However, it may become too large and need to be trimmed back to prevent it from becoming too invasive. The best time to prune Elymus alaskanus is during the late fall or early spring before new growth begins. It is essential to remove the dead or damaged growth while leaving the healthy parts of the plant intact.
Propagation of Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus
Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus, commonly known as Alaskan wildrye, can be propagated through different methods:
Seed propagation
Alaskan wildrye can be grown from seed. The seeds need stratification, which is a process of exposing them to a specific temperature range to stimulate germination. The seeds should be planted in a mix of loamy soil that is well-draining. The best time for planting is in the fall, and the soil must be kept consistently moist. The germination can take up to several weeks to occur. Once the seedlings have sprouted, they should be transplanted to a larger container or outdoors when the weather and soil conditions permit.
Clump division
Another method of propagating Alaskan wildrye is through clump division. It involves lifting the plant from the ground and separating the roots into small clumps using a sharp knife or garden tool. Each clump should have a set of roots and several leaf stems. The clumps should be planted into prepared soil that's moist and well-draining. The best time to do clump division is when the plant is dormant, usually in early spring or after the growing season is over.
Cutting propagation
Alaskan wildrye can also be propagated through cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy, mature plant and have at least two nodes with leaves attached. These cuttings should be dipped into rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of soilless growing medium, such as peat moss or perlite. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid place, protected from direct sunlight until they root. Once rooted, they can be transplanted to a larger container or outdoors when the weather and soil conditions permit.
Disease and Pest Management for Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus
Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus, commonly known as Alaska wildrye, is a cool season grass that is native to Alaska and parts of Canada. As with many plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pest infestations. Proper management can help prevent or mitigate damage caused by these threats.
Common Diseases
Several diseases can affect Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus, including rust, leaf spot, and stem rust. Rust is a fungal disease that appears as orange or brown pustules on the leaves and can quickly spread to other parts of the plant. Leaf spot is also a fungal disease that results in small, circular brown spots on the leaves. Stem rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia graminis, damages the stem and can cause the plant to wither and die.
Preventative measures such as proper watering and spacing of plants can help prevent the spread of diseases. Fungicides may be used to treat infected plants, although it is important to carefully follow label instructions and avoid overuse.
Common Pests
Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus may be infested by pests such as aphids, mites, and grasshoppers. Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaves to curl and distort. Mites are another sap-sucking pest that can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. Grasshoppers feed on the plant's leaves and stems and can cause significant damage if left unchecked.
Integrated pest management techniques such as introducing natural predators, using insecticidal soaps, and removing infested plant material can help manage pest populations without relying solely on chemical pesticides. It is important to identify the pest correctly before taking action to ensure effective management.
In conclusion, maintaining the health of Elymus alaskanus ssp. alaskanus involves proper disease and pest management. By taking preventative measures and employing appropriate management techniques, gardeners can help ensure the success of this unique and valuable plant species.
