Origin and Common Names
Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is a hybrid plant that originates from North America. It is also known by its common name, Moss's wild-rye, and is a blend of Elymus cinereus and Elymus glaucus.Appearance
Moss's wild-rye has a unique appearance, with its dense and extensive root system and leafy stems that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The stems are typically upright and stiff, with the leaves being long and slender, measuring up to 10 inches. The shape and texture of the leaves are also significant characteristics of the plant. They are flat and thin, with the top surface of the leaves being glossy green while the bottom surface is dull. The inflorescence of the plant is a spike, which can measure up to 6 inches long, and is usually positioned at the top of the stem.Uses
Moss's wild-rye is commonly used for erosion control and as a groundcover in restoration projects as it grows quickly, is resilient and adaptable to different environments. The plant is also particularly beneficial in stabilizing riverbanks and stream channels due to its robust root system. In addition, some native American tribes utilized Moss's wild-rye for medicinal purposes. The plant is thought to be capable of aiding in the treatment of coughs, fevers, and other respiratory conditions. It is considered to be a valuable forage plant for livestock. In summary, Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is an adaptable North American hybrid plant commonly known as Moss's wild-rye due to its distinctive appearance and uses such as erosion control, restoration, medicine, and as a forage plant.hereGrowth Conditions for Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is a hybrid plant resulting from the crossbreeding of Elymus canadensis and Elymus glaucus. It is commonly known as Moss' Wildrye and is well adapted to a range of environmental conditions.
Light Requirements
Moss' Wildrye grows well under full sun exposure, but it also tolerates partially shaded areas. It has a high photosynthetic rate and growth rate under full sunlight, leading to greater biomass production compared to shaded conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Elymus ×mossii is cold-tolerant and can survive freezing temperatures. It can thrive in various regions from temperate to sub-arctic climates. However, optimal growth occurs in temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C, and it requires a minimum of 3 months of growing season.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in diverse soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and silty soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils and requires a pH range of 5.0-8.0. Additionally, the soil should be fertile and contain adequate levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for optimal growth.
In conclusion, Moss' Wildrye is a robust plant suited to a range of environmental conditions and can be a valuable addition to pastures, range-land, make green manure, or ornamental gardens.
Cultivation of Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey, commonly known as hybrid wheatgrass, is a perennial grass species that is easy to grow and requires minimal care. To cultivate this plant, prepare a well-drained soil bed that has good moisture retention capacity. Elymus ×mossii can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, clayey, and loamy soils.
You can plant Elymus ×mossii seeds in spring or fall. Plant the seeds at a depth of ¼ to ½ inch and keep the soil moist until germination, which usually takes up to 2 weeks. Elymus ×mossii grows well in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Watering Needs of Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Elymus ×mossii requires moderate watering. The plant can tolerate drought conditions but will perform better with regular watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing sufficient time for the water to penetrate the soil. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Elymus ×mossii requires little fertilization. If necessary, use a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients to the plant. Apply the fertilizer sparingly, as excess application can lead to the development of soft growth that is susceptible to pest and diseases.
Pruning of Elymus ×mossii (Lepage) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Elymus ×mossii requires minimal pruning. The plant is a low-maintenance grass species that does not require regular pruning. Prune the plant only to remove damaged or diseased leaves or stems. Trim the plant in early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Elymus ×mossii
Elymus ×mossii, commonly known as hybrid wheatgrass, is a drought-tolerant grass species that is native to North America. It is a hybrid of Elymus canadensis and Elymus glaucus. The plant can be propagated by several different methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Elymus ×mossii is through seed. The seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring, just before the last frost. The seeds should be placed on the surface of well-draining soil and lightly covered with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate in 7-14 days. Transplant the seedlings into their permanent location once they are large enough to handle, or after the last frost.
Vegetative Propagation
Elymus ×mossii can also be propagated through vegetative means. The plant can be divided in the spring or early fall, just before the plant begins to grow. Dig up the plant and separate the crowns into smaller pieces. Replant immediately, making sure to keep the soil moist until the plant is established.
Cuttings Propagation
Elymus ×mossii can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the top of the plant in early summer. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist sand or vermiculite. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid location and mist daily until they have rooted, usually in 3-4 weeks. Transplant the rooted cuttings into their permanent location.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Elymus ×mossii prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Once established, the plant is relatively low maintenance and tolerant of drought.
Disease and Pest Management for Elymus ×mossii
Elymus ×mossii, or simply Moss' wheatgrass, is a native perennial bunchgrass commonly used in forage and erosion control in rangelands, pastures, and disturbed sites. The plant's robustness and disease resistance make it suitable for these uses. However, Elymus ×mossii can still suffer from some diseases and pests that can affect its growth, yield, and overall health.
Common Diseases and Pests
Stripe rust: Stripe rust caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. pseudo-graminis fungus can affect Elymus ×mossii in cool and humid conditions. Infected plants show yellowish stripes or elongated lesions on the leaves. Rust can reduce the plant's photosynthesis and water uptake, leading to poor growth and yield. To manage stripe rust, it is advisable to grow rust-resistant varieties, adopt crop rotation, and apply fungicides when necessary.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana that attacks the leaves of Elymus ×mossii, causing brownish spots that may coalesce and enlarge, leading to premature leaf drop and weakened plant vigor. To prevent leaf spot, avoid planting in areas with high moisture levels, clean up plant debris, and apply fungicides early in the season.
Armyworms: Armyworms are common pests that feed on the leaves of Elymus ×mossii, causing defoliation, reduced photosynthesis, and thinning of the plant stand. You can control armyworms by applying insecticides early in the infestation and considering biological control agents such as parasitic wasps and nematodes.
Cutworms: Cutworms are another common pest that can cause similar damage to the armyworms. These pests feed at the base of the stems, cutting the plant off and causing wilting and death. To manage cutworms, apply insecticides early in the season and implement tillage practices that can expose the pests to their natural predators.
Conclusion
Elymus ×mossii is a hardy and versatile plant species that produces high-quality forage and helps restore degraded landscapes. However, like any other plant, it can be susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its productivity. By adopting appropriate management practices such as using resistant cultivars, regular monitoring, crop rotation, and judicious use of insecticides and fungicides, you can prevent or minimize the impact of pests and diseases on Elymus ×mossii.
