Origin
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden, also known as Maltese wheatgrass, is a hybrid species of grass that is native to Europe and Asia.
Common Names
Maltese wheatgrass is also commonly known as Lyme grass, desert wheatgrass, and creeping wheatgrass.
Uses
Maltese wheatgrass is commonly used for soil stabilization, erosion control, and forage production. Due to its tolerance to drought and saline soils, it is commonly used for reclamation of arid areas. It is also used as a turf grass for lawns and golf courses due to its low maintenance requirements and adaptability to various climates. Additionally, it has ecological value as it provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife.
General Appearance
Maltese wheatgrass is a perennial grass species that typically grows between 12 and 40 inches tall. It has narrow, flat, bluish-green leaves that are around 4-10 inches long. The plant produces tall, erect flower spikes, which can reach up to 3 feet tall and contain numerous small spikelets. The flowers are generally green or purple in color and appear in the late spring or early summer. It has a creeping growth habit and can spread rapidly through underground rhizomes, forming dense mats of vegetation.
hereGrowth Conditions for Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden
Light: Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden prefers full sun to partial shade with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature: This plant is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9. It can withstand winter temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and summer temperatures as high as 40°C (104°F).
Soil: Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden grows well in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. This plant is also tolerant of moderately saline soils.
Moisture: This plant is drought tolerant and can survive in dry conditions, but it prefers consistently moist soil. Avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden does not require frequent fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated through seed or by division in the spring.
Cultivating Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in well-drained and slightly acidic soils with full sun exposure. When planting, make sure to space the plants about 12 inches apart to allow enough room for growth. The best time to plant is in the fall or early spring.
Watering Needs of Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden
While Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden is drought-tolerant, it still needs regular watering during the first growing season, especially during dry spells. Once established, the plant can tolerate some drought, but it is best to water regularly to promote healthy growth. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep roots and reduce the risk of root rot.
Fertilization of Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden does not require a lot of fertilizer to grow, but adding some compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting can help promote healthy growth. If the soil is lacking in nutrients, you can add a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, but be careful not to over-fertilize as this can lead to excessive growth and weaker plants.
Pruning Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden does not require much pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Pruning can also be done in the fall to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. If you want to contain the spread of the plant, you can dig up any rhizomes in the fall or early spring to prevent them from spreading too far.
Propagation of Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden, commonly known as Baltic rye grass, is propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The plant can be propagated from seeds, which are available commercially. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a container or seed tray. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. They should be placed in a bright location but not in direct sunlight. Germination typically takes two to three weeks. Once the seedlings reach about 2 inches in height, they can be transplanted into larger pots or planted outdoors.
Asexual Propagation
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden can also be propagated through rhizome division. The rhizomes should be dug up during the plant’s dormant season, which is typically in late fall or early spring. The rhizomes should be separated carefully, ensuring that each division has some roots and shoots. The divisions can then be replanted in well-drained soil. It is recommended to keep the soil moist during the first few weeks to help the plant establish itself.
A layering method can also be used to propagate the plant. In this method, a stem from the parent plant is bent and buried in the soil, leaving the end exposed. The buried stem should start producing roots in a few weeks. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Disease and Pest Management of Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden, commonly known as Maltese wheatgrass, is a tough and adaptive perennial plant that can tolerate drought and saline soil conditions. However, it may still fall prey to certain diseases and pests, which can reduce its productivity and overall growth.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Maltese wheatgrass is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause the plant to become stunted and reduce its ability to photosynthesize. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant debris and improve air circulation around the plant by spacing them out. Fungicides can also be used, but they should be applied as a preventative measure before the disease takes hold.
Another fungal disease that can affect Maltese wheatgrass is rust. Also, known as crown rust, this disease causes orange and brown pustules to appear on the stems and leaves of the plant. Rust can reduce the plant's ability to produce carbohydrates, and excessive rust can cause plant death. Remove any affected plant parts and consider applying fungicides or increasing nitrogen levels to help the plant overcome the disease.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Maltese wheatgrass is grasshoppers. These insects can cause significant damage to the plant, including chewing on the leaves and stems. To manage grasshopper infestations, consider applying insecticides or using physical barriers like mesh netting. Additionally, planting companion plants like clovers can attract predators that eat grasshoppers and reduce the severity of infestations.
Another pest that can affect Maltese wheatgrass is aphids. These small insects are typically found on the undersides of leaves and can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. Beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can help keep aphid populations in check, and insecticidal soaps or oils can be applied to kill off the pests.
Conclusion
Elymus ×maltei Bowden var. simulans Bowden, or Maltese wheatgrass, is a hardy plant that can tolerate harsh growing conditions, but it is not immune to disease and pest damage. Knowing the common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and how to manage them is crucial to maintaining its health and productivity.
