Origin
Elymus semicostatum (Nees ex Steud.) A. Löve, also known as semicostal wheatgrass or half-ribbed wheatgrass, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is native to North America, with its range extending from Alaska to Mexico and eastward to the Great Plains region.
Common Names
Elymus semicostatum is commonly known as semicostal wheatgrass or half-ribbed wheatgrass. Its other common names include bluebunch wheatgrass, St.Victor wheatgrass, and Mohawk wheatgrass.
Uses
Elymus semicostatum is a valuable forage plant and is commonly used for grazing and forage production in the western US and Canada. It is also used for soil stabilization and erosion control and as a component of reclamation and restoration projects. The plant has also been found to have medicinal properties where it is used to treat different ailments.
General Appearance
Elymus semicostatum typically grows up to 1m tall, with a deep root system that can reach up to 3m deep. It has a dense bunchgrass growth habit, and its leaves are usually flat or rolled and hairy on the underside, with the lower surface being smoother. The plant's stems are erect and unbranched, and the inflorescence is composed of several spikelets that are arranged along the stem. Elymus semicostatum flowers in early summer, producing small and inconspicuous flowers that are usually purple or green in color.
hereLight Requirements
Elymus semicostatum requires full sun to partial shade for its growth. However, it prefers a full sun environment, as it is a grass species.
Temperature Requirements
Elymus semicostatum can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but it thrives in temperate conditions. Its optimal temperature range is between 18? to 28? (64? to 82?). The plants can grow in low temperatures down to -15? (5?).
Soil Requirements
The species prefers moist and rapidly draining soils for optimal growth. However, it can tolerate drought and saline conditions. It can grow in nutrient-deficient soils but thrives best in moderately fertile loamy soils. A pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is optimum for the growth of Elymus semicostatum. Besides, the root system of E. semicostatum is shallow, and compacted soils inhibit its growth.
Cultivation Methods
Elymus semicostatum, also known as half-ribbed wild-rye, is a cool-season perennial grass. It prefers well-draining soils and grows best in full sunlight. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and spreads over time through its rhizomes.
The best time to plant Elymus semicostatum is in the early spring or late fall. The seeds must be placed one inch deep in the soil and spaced around 6-12 inches apart. It is essential to ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Germination usually takes place within two weeks when the soil temperature is between 15°C to 20°C.
Watering Needs
It is necessary to water the newly sown seeds frequently to maintain a moist environment. However, care must be taken not to overwater them. Once the plants are established, they usually need about 1 inch of water per week. It is best to give them deep watering, so the roots absorb the moisture from the soil. Elymus semicostatum is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering.
Fertilization
Elymus semicostatum grows well in soils with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is essential for the plant's growth and development. It is best to apply the fertilizer in the early spring before the plant starts its active growth period. Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive growth, which weakens the plant and increases its susceptibility to diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Elymus semicostatum. However, deadheading can remove the spent flowers, which helps conserve the plant's energy. The grass can be mowed to maintain its height and prevent it from spreading too far from its designated area. Regular mowing, combined with the appropriate fertilization and watering, helps keep the plant healthy and robust.
Propagation of Elymus semicostatum
Elymus semicostatum (Nees ex Steud.) A. Löve, commonly known as needle-and-thread grass, is a long-lived, native bunchgrass that is found in western North America. It is commonly used for soil stabilization and erosion control. Here are the different propagation methods for Elymus semicostatum:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the primary and most effective way to propagate Elymus semicostatum. The seeds are small and can be easily spread by wind or animals. They can be sown directly into the soil in the spring when the soil temperature is consistently above 50°F. The seeds need to be planted at a depth of ? to ¼ inch, and the soil needs to be kept moist until the seeds germinate. It takes approximately 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have established, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Elymus semicostatum can be achieved through rhizome division. Dig up clumps of the plant and divide them into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one node. Replant the divided sections into prepared soil. It takes approximately 2-3 weeks for the divided sections to establish roots.
Cultural Practices to Promote Propagation
Applying a light layer of mulch, such as straw or wood chips, over the planted seeds or divided sections will help to retain moisture in the soil and prevent the soil from drying out too quickly. Regular watering is necessary to ensure optimal growth. Fertilizer can also be added to the soil in the early spring to help the plants establish. For best results, propagate Elymus semicostatum in the spring or early fall.
Disease Management
Elymus semicostatum is susceptible to various diseases, including Leaf Rust, Stem Rust, and Powdery Mildew.
Leaf Rust: This disease is caused by the fungus Puccinia hordei and is characterized by small orange-brown spores on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy infected leaves immediately, ideally before they produce spores. Use fungicides such as Triadimefon and Propiconazole to control the disease effectively.
Stem Rust: This disease is also caused by a fungus (Puccinia graminis) and usually affects the stem of the plant. Initially, you will notice small pustules or rust-colored spots on the stem. Stem Rust spreads rapidly and can cause yield loss. To manage this disease, eliminate the infected plants immediately and destroy them. Use fungicides such as Trifloxystrobin and Azoxystrobin.
Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by the fungus Erysiphe graminis. Symptoms include a white powdery coating on the leaves. The affected leaves typically become distorted and die. To manage this disease, regularly prune infected parts of the plant. You can also use fungicides such as Myclobutanil and Propiconazole.
Pest Management
Elymus semicostatum is also susceptible to pests such as Aphids, Cutworms, and Wireworms.
Aphids: These pests are tiny insects that typically feed on the leaves, stems, and roots of plants. They typically suck juices from the plant, causing the growth of the plant to be stunted. Management of Aphids can be done by spraying insecticidal soap, neem oil, or pyrethrin on the plant.
Cutworms: These pests are larvae of several moth species. Cutworms typically cut down young plants at the base, causing damage to the plant's growth. In severe situations, they can cause dead plants or belt-like damage. To manage Cutworms, remove weeds and avoid planting seedlings in areas where these pests were previously observed.
Wireworms: These pests are the larval stage of click beetles. Wireworms typically bore holes in the stem of the plant, causing damage to the plant's growth. To manage Wireworms, use trap crops like corn to attract and capture the pests, or use soil insecticides such as Carbofuran and Thiamethoxam.
