Origin
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden, commonly known as Maltese wheatgrass, is a hybrid plant that originated in the United States.
Common Names
Maltese wheatgrass is also known by several other common names including Brown's wheatgrass, Sandberg's wheatgrass, and Idaho wheatgrass.
Uses
Maltese wheatgrass is a popular forage plant for livestock and is often used in erosion control and land reclamation projects. It is also a popular plant for landscaping and is often used to stabilize sandy soils due to its deep root system.
General Appearance
Maltese wheatgrass is a perennial grass that can reach heights of up to 4 feet. It has deep green foliage and produces attractive seed heads that turn a golden color in the fall. The plant has a deep root system that allows it to survive in arid and drought-prone environments.
hereLight Requirements
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden requires full sun exposure for optimum growth. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of enough sunlight can cause poor growth and development of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a moderate temperature range of between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and around 55–65 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The plant can tolerate cooler temperatures, but it may not do well in extremely high temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden thrives in well-drained sandy or loam soils. It can also tolerate heavy clay soils, but the soil shouldn’t be too wet or poorly drained. The plant prefers soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It is recommended to add organic matter in the soil to enhance its fertility.
Cultivation Methods
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden is a hardy and adaptable plant that can grow in a wide range of settings. It does particularly well in sunny or partially shaded areas, with well-draining soil. Ideally, the soil should have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. This plant is tolerant of drought and can withstand colder temperatures, although it may require some protection from frost in extreme conditions.
Watering Needs
Although Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden is drought tolerant, it still requires regular watering during the growing season to thrive. Aim to water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly saturated. However, it is also important not to overwater, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
When it comes to fertilizing Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden, less is often more. This plant doesn't require a lot of extra nutrients, and over-fertilization can do more harm than good. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer applied once in early spring should be sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden doesn't require a lot of pruning, but occasional maintenance can help the plant to remain healthy and looking its best. Remove any dead or damaged stems as they appear, cutting them back to where they join healthy growth. If the plant begins to look too leggy or overgrown, it can be cut back to around six inches from the ground in the fall to promote healthy new growth in the following season.
Propagation of Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden or commonly known as Maltese Ray Grass is a cool-season perennial grass that can be propagated through various methods.
Division
Propagation through division is the easiest method. The best time for division is during early spring, or when the plant is still dormant. Dig up the clump, and divide it into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has roots and leaves. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is also possible, especially if you want reliable genetics and abundant stock. Seed propagation is best done during fall or spring. Harvest the seed heads and allow them to dry in a cool, dry place. Once the seeds have separated from the seed head, plant them in soil, either in pots or directly into the ground. Water regularly and provide mulch.
Vegetative Propagation
Another method of propagation that is not common is vegetative propagation. This method involves cutting rhizomes or stolons from the mother plant and planting them in soil or sand. It is best done during late spring or early summer when the plants are most active.
Once you have propagated Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden, ensure that you provide the right care and maintenance to ensure their healthy growth.
Disease Management
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden is relatively resilient to diseases. However, there are a few that might attack the plant, including leaf rust, stripe rust, and powdery mildew.
Leaf rust appears as small, circular, orange to brown pustules on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves to prevent its spread. Fungicides can also be applied before the infection gets out of hand.
Stripe rust, on the other hand, shows up as yellow to orange pustules that eventually darken and become stripe-shaped. It can cause severe damage to the plant, especially if left untreated. To manage this disease, apply fungicides at the first sign of infection, and get rid of any infected leaves and plants immediately.
Powdery mildew presents as white powdery patches on leaves and stems. It can stunt growth and cause the plant to wither. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected parts of the plant, increase air circulation around the plants, and apply fungicides early in the season before the infection becomes severe.
Pest Management
There are also a few pests that might munch on Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. brownii Bowden. These include aphids, spider mites, and slugs.
Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can transmit diseases and produce honeydew that attracts other pests. To manage them, release natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, spray the plants with water to dislodge them, or apply insecticidal soap at the first sign of infestation.
Spider mites are also sap-sucking insects that spin webs on the leaves, causing them to yellow and eventually die. To manage them, remove and destroy infected leaves, increase humidity around the plants, and apply miticides if needed.
Slugs are nocturnal pests that can cause significant damage to the plants, especially in wet conditions. To manage them, remove debris and hiding spots around the plants, handpick and dispose of them, or apply slug pellets around the plants.
