Origin
Elymus spicatus (Pursh) Gould, also commonly known as blue wildrye, is a species of grass that is native to western North America. It can be found from Alaska to California and eastward to Montana and Colorado. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, subalpine forests, and sagebrush steppe.
Common Names
Aside from blue wildrye, Elymus spicatus may also be referred to as alkali wildrye, Spike wildrye, or bottlebrush grass.
Uses
Blue wildrye is an important species for riparian and wetland restoration, as it has a deep root system that helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion. It also provides cover and forage for wildlife, and its seeds are a food source for birds and rodents.
Additionally, Elymus spicatus is used for erosion control on roadsides and disturbed areas, and it is commonly used in seed mixes for reclamation projects. It can also be planted as a forage crop for livestock, although its palatability is reportedly low.
General Appearance
Elymus spicatus is a tall and robust grass, typically growing between 2-5 feet in height. It has long, narrow leaves that can reach up to 10 inches in length, and it produces tall flowering spikes in the summer months. The seeds are borne on bottlebrush-like structures that give the plant one of its common names. The leaves and stems of blue wildrye are typically blue-green in color, and the plant can form dense stands in certain habitats.
Light Requirements:
Elymus spicatus grows in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but growth may be slower and less vigorous. In full sun, the grass will typically have a more upright habit and be more drought-tolerant.
Temperature Requirements:
Elymus spicatus is a cool-season grass that does best in climates with cool summers. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 7, with an average temperature range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season.
Soil Requirements:
Elymus spicatus prefers well-drained soils and can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. It is somewhat tolerant of slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The grass can also tolerate some salinity and can be found growing in coastal areas.
Cultivation Methods
Elymus spicatus (Pursh) Gould is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. Plant the seeds in the early spring or fall directly where they will grow. To increase germination rates, you can apply a light layer of compost over the seeds. Elymus spicatus (Pursh) Gould requires regular watering until it is established and can tolerate drought once mature.
Watering Needs
Elymus spicatus (Pursh) Gould requires moderate watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. Try not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Elymus spicatus (Pursh) Gould is a hardy plant that does not require much fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer once or twice a year, but avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to the plant becoming leggy and weak. Alternatively, you can apply a layer of compost around the base of the plant in the spring to help improve soil health and provide nutrients to the plant.
Pruning
Elymus spicatus (Pursh) Gould does not require pruning regularly, but it can benefit from removing any dead or damaged foliage when needed. You can also cut back the plant in the late fall or early spring to keep it from becoming too tall and straggly. Additionally, you can divide the plant every three to four years to maintain its vigor.
Propagation of Elymus spicatus
Elymus spicatus, commonly known as blue wildrye or bearded wheatgrass, is a perennial grass native to western North America. It is a popular choice for revegetation and erosion control projects due to its deep root system and ability to tolerate a wide range of soil types and moisture levels. Here are some methods for propagating Elymus spicatus:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Elymus spicatus is by seed. The seeds should be collected from mature plants in the fall and stored in a cool, dry place until planting in the spring. The seeds can be planted directly in the ground or started indoors in pots and transplanted later. It is important to scarify the seeds before planting to break down the hard outer seed coat and improve germination rates. This can be done by soaking the seeds in hot water for several hours or nicking the seed coat with a file. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Elymus spicatus can also be propagated vegetatively by dividing mature plants. This method is best done in the fall when the plants are dormant. The clump of grass should be dug up and divided into smaller sections, making sure that each section has both roots and shoots. The smaller sections can then be replanted in a new location.
Sod Transplantation
Another method of propagating Elymus spicatus is by sod transplantation. This method is especially useful for larger-scale projects where quick establishment is desired. The sod should be cut into small sections and transplanted to the new location. It is important to make sure that the sod is watered regularly until it becomes established in the new location.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, Elymus spicatus should be planted in a location with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is important to keep the plants well-watered until they become established in their new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Elymus spicatus (Pursh) Gould
Elymus spicatus is a resilient plant that is resistant to most diseases and pests. However, just like any other plant, it is still prone to a few pests and diseases. In this section, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Crown Rot: The most common fungal disease of Elymus spicatus is crown rot. It occurs when the roots of the plant are attacked by a fungus called Fusarium. The symptoms of crown rot include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage crown rot, remove infected plants and avoid planting in the same spot for at least two years. Also, maintain proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
Leaf Spot: Another fungal disease that affects Elymus spicatus is leaf spot. It is caused by a fungus called Drechslera. Symptoms include brown spots on leaves that can cluster and form larger areas of dead tissue. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Additionally, allow for proper air circulation by pruning surrounding vegetation and keeping weeds under control.
Common Pests
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers feed on the leaves of the Elymus spicatus, which can lead to reduced growth and yield. To manage grasshoppers, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil sprays when adult grasshoppers are present. Cultivating the surrounding soil can also disrupt grasshopper eggs and reduce population numbers.
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the stems of Elymus spicatus and can cause the plants to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) sprays or restrict cutworm access by wrapping the lower stems of the plant with a sturdy material.
By being vigilant and implementing these management strategies, you can help ensure the health of your Elymus spicatus plants and a successful harvest.
