Origin
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is a type of grass that originates from Africa, specifically from the countries of Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It prefers to grow in grasslands, savannas, and other open areas with good drainage and moderate amounts of moisture.
Common Names
This type of grass is commonly called Blue Wildrye or Mountain Rye. It is also known by its scientific name, Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy. In some places, it is referred to as the African Rye-grass.
Uses
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is used as an ornamental grass in landscaping and beautification projects. It adds texture, height, and color contrast to gardens and green spaces. In addition, it is used as a forage crop for livestock and as erosion control measures.
General Appearance
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is a cool-season perennial grass that is typically 30-120 cm tall. It has an erect stem which is usually unbranched near the top but may be slightly bent. The leaves are 10-30 cm long and 3-12 mm wide, and they are often glaucous (blue-green or grayish). The inflorescence (flowering part) is a narrow spike that is 5-15 cm long and has awned flowers. The seeds are small, approximately 3-4mm long, and are elliptical-shaped.
Light Requirements:
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy commonly known as blue wildrye prefers to grow in partial to full sunlight. It thrives in open habitats such as forests, meadows, and along streams where there is sufficient light to support its growth. The plant requires adequate light for photosynthesis that is essential for the production of food and energy.
Temperature Requirements:
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is between 0 to 30°Celsius. It is an adaptable species that can withstand a wide range of temperatures but the ideal temperature range for its growth is between 15 to 25°Celsius. The plant is found in regions with a temperate and cool climate, and it can survive freezing temperatures for short periods when in the dormant stage.
Soil Requirements:
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The plant prefers slightly acidic to alkaline soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 8.0. It is moderately drought-tolerant and can grow in soils that are dry but it requires regular watering for optimal growth. The plant can also grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but it performs best in soils that are rich in organic matter.
Cultivation Methods
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy, commonly known as blue wildrye, is a perennial grass that grows best in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of soils from sandy to clayey. It is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme cold temperatures and is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Watering Needs
While Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy can tolerate drought conditions, it performs best with regular watering. Watering should be done deeply and less frequently rather than shallow and often. It is important to let the soil dry out between watering, as this helps to prevent root rot and other fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to foliar diseases.
Fertilization
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy does not require a lot of fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring should be enough to provide the necessary nutrients for the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to excessive growth and weakened plants. Soil tests can be done to determine if any specific nutrients are lacking in the soil.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy or floppy, it can be cut back by up to one-third of its height in early spring before new growth starts. This will promote bushier growth and help to maintain a more compact size.
Propagation of Elymus Glaucus Buckl. var. Breviaristatus Burtt-Davy
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is a popular ornamental grass that is widely grown in gardens and landscapes. Propagating this grass is relatively easy, and it can be done using several methods:
Seed Propagation
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy can be propagated from seed. The seeds of this grass require cold stratification to germinate properly. The seeds can be sown in early spring or late fall, and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 2-4 weeks.
Division Propagation
Another popular method of propagating Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is by division. This method is most effective when the plant is dormant. To divide the plant, dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections using a sharp shovel or knife. Each section should have roots and at least one growing point. Replant the divisions at the same depth as the original clump.
Cuttings Propagation
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy can also be propagated from cuttings. Take cuttings in early spring when new growth appears. Cut healthy stems that are about 3-4 inches long, with at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom node and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone. Insert the cuttings in a rooting medium, such as perlite or vermiculite. Keep the cuttings moist and warm, and roots should begin to form in 2-4 weeks.
Regardless of which method is chosen, it is important to provide adequate care and maintenance to ensure the successful propagation of Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy.
Disease Management
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is susceptible to a few common diseases that affect its growth and yield potential. Proper management strategies can help reduce the impact of these diseases.
Fusarium Crown Rot
Fusarium crown rot is a serious disease that can drastically reduce the yield potential of Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy. The disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium culmorum, which infects the crown and roots of the plant. Younger plants are more susceptible to this disease than mature ones. The disease can be managed by maintaining good soil health, avoiding susceptible cultivars, and planting resistant cultivars.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy. This disease is characterized by white, powdery patches on the leaves, which can cause defoliation and stunted growth. The disease can be managed by planting resistant cultivars, providing good air circulation, and regular sanitation practices, including removing debris from the growing area.
Pest Management
Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy is also vulnerable to a number of pests which can reduce its yield potential. Proper management strategies can help control the population of these pests so that they don't cause significant damage.
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers are a common pest that feeds on the leaves and stems of Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy. These pests can cause significant damage, especially in younger plants. To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the population and use insecticides and other control measures when necessary.
Aphids
Aphids are another common pest that can infest Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy. These pests can reproduce quickly and can cause stunted growth and reduced yield potential. To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the population and use insecticides or natural predators like lady beetles or lacewings.
Mites
Mites are a common pest that can infest Elymus glaucus Buckl. var. breviaristatus Burtt-Davy. These pests are tiny and difficult to see with the naked eye, but they can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the population and use insecticidal soaps or oils, or release natural predators like predatory mites or lacewings.
