Overview
Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. majus (Vasey) Beetle, commonly known as slender wheatgrass, is a cool-season perennial grass native to North America. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is a valuable forage plant for livestock.
Appearance
Slender wheatgrass typically grows between 30 and 120 cm tall and has long, narrow leaves that can reach up to 30 cm in length and are blue-green in color. During the summer months, the plant produces erect flowering stems that can reach up to 50 cm in height. The flowers grow in dense spikes and are straw-colored.
Origin
Slender wheatgrass is native to North America and is widely distributed across the continent. It is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and open areas at elevations ranging from sea level to over 3,000 meters.
Common Names
In addition to slender wheatgrass, Elymus trachycaulus also goes by other common names such as roughleaf wheatgrass, slender wheat grass, western wheatgrass, and Siberian wheatgrass.
Uses
Slender wheatgrass is an important forage crop for livestock, particularly for grazing animals such as cattle, horses, and sheep. It is also used for erosion control and as a cover crop in land restoration projects. Slender wheatgrass is also a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive and hardy nature, and is often used in landscaping and gardening. In addition, slender wheatgrass is beginning to gain popularity for its potential benefits in soil remediation and carbon sequestration, which could have implications in combating climate change.
hereLight Requirements
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but this can result in reduced growth and vigor. In areas with hot, intense sunlight, some protection from afternoon sun may be beneficial.
Temperature Requirements
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus is adapted to a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in climates with cold, harsh winters and warm, dry summers. However, it prefers cooler temperatures and does well in regions with long, cool growing seasons. Ideal temperature ranges for growth are between 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C).
Soil Requirements
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils high in organic matter. It can tolerate both neutral and slightly alkaline soils. This plant is highly resilient and can grow in soils with low fertility, high salinity or low moisture. However, for optimal growth and yield, soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.5 and soil moisture should be kept consistent.
Cultivation methods
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus is a hardy and adaptable plant that grows well in a wide range of soils, including loam, clay, and sand. It prefers full to partial sunlight and fares best in cooler climates. This grass species is often used in meadow restorations, native plant gardens, and erosion control projects.
Watering needs
During its initial growth stages, Elymus trachycaulus var. majus requires regular watering, preferably 1-2 inches of water per week from either rainfall or irrigation. Once established, it can tolerate drought conditions and infrequent watering but still requires adequate moisture to maintain healthy growth.
Fertilization
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus performs well without fertilizer if grown on fertile soil. If the soil lacks essential nutrients, a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied in the spring. It's important to avoid over-fertilization, which may promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of seed production.
Pruning
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus is a low-maintenance grass that does not require regular pruning. However, dead or damaged stems and leaves can be removed to improve the plant's overall appearance or to prevent the spread of fungal or bacterial diseases. When pruning, it's best to use clean and sharp tools to avoid tearing or injuring the plant's tissue.
Propagation of Elymus trachycaulus var. majus
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus, commonly known as thickspike wheatgrass, can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Thickspike wheatgrass can be propagated through seeds. Collect seeds from mature plants. Clean and dry them well before sowing. The best time for sowing is in the spring when soil temperatures are above 40°F. Cover the seeds with about 1/4 inch of soil and keep them moist until they germinate.
Vegetative Propagation
Thickspike wheatgrass can also be propagated vegetatively. The best method is through rhizomes. Dig up mature plants in the fall and cut the rhizomes into 4 to 6-inch-long sections. Each section should have at least one bud. Plant the sections horizontally in well-tilled soil, 1 to 2 inches deep, and cover with soil. Water in well.
Transplanting
Another method of propagation is through transplanting. It involves digging up mature plants and relocating them to another area. Fall is the best time for transplanting.
Thickspike wheatgrass is a hardy plant that can also be propagated through division. With proper care, it can make an excellent addition to any garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus is generally disease-resistant. However, in unfavorable growing conditions or situations with high humidity, the plants can be affected by fungal diseases such as Fusarium head blight, leaf rust, and stem rust. Additionally, viral diseases such as Barley yellow dwarf virus can also affect the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to maintain proper crop rotation, avoid overcrowding, and remove any infected plant debris. Fungicides and insecticides can also be used under expert supervision to control and manage disease and pest infestations.
Pest Management
Elymus trachycaulus var. majus is relatively pest-resistant; however, in some situations, insect pests can infest the plant. The most common pest affecting Elymus trachycaulus is the Wheat stem sawfly. They damage the plant stem, causing lodging or stem breaking, resulting in significant yield losses. Other pests such as Aphids, Slugs, and Cutworms can also affect the plant.
To manage these pests, it is essential to detect and monitor their population levels early and take appropriate control measures. Mechanical control practices such as handpicking the insects or barriers such as sticky bands around the plant can help control their populations. Pesticides can also be used, but it is crucial to use them judiciously and under expert guidance to avoid adverse effects on the environment.
