Origin
Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. unilateralis (Cassidy) Beetle, commonly known as slender wheatgrass, is a native plant of North America. This cool season grass is found in the western parts of the United States and Canada, ranging from Alaska to New Mexico and from coastal California to the Great Plains.Common Names
Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis is commonly known by several names, including slender wheatgrass, slender wheat-grass, spike wheatgrass, Gisler's wheatgrass, and sand wheatgrass. These names reflect the plant's tall, narrow appearance and its preference for growing in sandy soils.Uses
Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis has several uses, including forage for livestock, soil stabilization, erosion control, and revegetation of disturbed areas. The plant's fibrous root system helps to stabilize sandy soils, preventing erosion and promoting soil health. Its tall, narrow spikes provide good forage for cattle and other livestock, making it a valuable addition to rangeland management plans.General Appearance
Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis is a cool season grass that typically grows to a height of 30 to 80 centimeters (12 to 30 inches). Its leaves are flat and narrow, and its spike-like seed heads are narrow and elongated, with spikelets that alternate along one side of the stem. The seeds are about 5 millimeters (0.2 inches) long and are covered in fine hairs. The plant is tolerant of drought and grows well in sandy soils, making it an ideal choice for dryland revegetation projects.Light Requirements
Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis grows best in areas with full sun exposure. This plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight every day for optimum growth. In shaded areas, the plant may become leggy, tall and produce flowers with less frequency.
Temperature Requirements
Generally, Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis thrives in areas where the temperature ranges from 65°F to 75°F. However, it can survive temperatures as low as -50°F, and as high as 85°F. In areas with extended periods of heat or frost, the plant may become less productive.
Soil Requirements
For Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis to thrive, it requires well-draining soils types such as sandy loam, silty clay loam or loamy sand. The soil pH should range from 6.0 to 7.0, this is considered optimum. It is not particularly sensitive to salinity or alkalinity of the soil.
Cultivation Methods for Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. unilateralis (Cassidy) Beetle
Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis is a perennial grass species used for forage, erosion control, and land reclamation. It grows well in temperate and alpine regions, preferring well-drained soils and sunny locations. The following are some cultivation methods that are useful for growing healthy Elymus trachycaulus plants:
- Start the plants from seeds in the spring or fall, or from divisions in the fall.
- Ensure that the soil is well-prepared for planting, with weeds removed and the soil aerated.
- Plant the seeds or divisions at a depth of 1-2 inches and 10-12 inches apart.
- Water the plants immediately after planting, and then regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mulch the plants to keep the soil moist and to control weeds.
Watering Needs for Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. unilateralis (Cassidy) Beetle
Proper watering is essential for the growth and health of Elymus trachycaulus plants. Here are some tips on watering:
- Water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Monitor the soil moisture level to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to fungal diseases and reduce the plant's overall health.
- Consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses to water the plants at the base.
Fertilization of Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. unilateralis (Cassidy) Beetle
Proper fertilization can improve the growth and nutrition of Elymus trachycaulus plants. Here are some tips for fertilizing:
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring, before new growth appears.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flower and seed production.
- Consider using organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, to improve soil fertility and promote healthy plant growth.
Pruning Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. unilateralis (Cassidy) Beetle
Pruning is an essential part of the care of Elymus trachycaulus plants. Here are some tips for pruning:
- Prune the plants in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches.
- Cut back any overgrown or leggy branches to promote bushier growth and a more compact form.
- Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant's overall growth in a single season to prevent stress and damage.
Propagation of Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis
Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. Here are the different ways to propagate this plant:
Sexual Propagation
The sexual propagation method involves using seeds to grow new plants. Collect mature seeds from the seed heads and sow them in a seed tray filled with a well-draining potting mixture. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of the mixture and water them gently. Place the tray in a warm, bright location, and keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, transplant them to individual pots and care for them until they are strong enough to be planted in the ground.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation involves using vegetative plant parts to grow new plants. Here are the different methods to propagate Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis asexually:
Division
Dividing established clumps of Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis is a quick and easy way to propagate this plant. Simply dig up the clump and use a sharp knife to divide it into smaller sections. Each section should have both roots and shoots. Replant each section in a prepared hole, and water it well. Care for the newly divided plants until they are established.
Root Cuttings
Root cuttings are another way to propagate Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis. Take 6-inch cuttings from the plant's roots, and plant them in a pot filled with moist potting soil. Keep the pot in a warm, bright location, and mist the cuttings regularly to keep them moist. In a few weeks, the cuttings will develop new roots and shoots. Once this happens, transplant them to individual pots and care for them until they are strong enough to be planted in the ground.
Overall, Elymus trachycaulus var. unilateralis can be propagated easily through both sexual and asexual methods. With proper care and attention, propagated plants will grow strong and healthy, and be a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
Pest and Disease Management for Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. unilateralis (Cassidy) Beetle
Elymus trachycaulus (Link) Gould ex Shinners var. unilateralis (Cassidy) Beetle, commonly known as slender wheatgrass, is a native grass species found in North America. This plant species is popular in forage production and soil conservation. However, several diseases and pests can affect the plant. Here are some common ones and how to manage them.
Pests
1. Wheat Stem Sawfly: Wheat stem sawfly (Cephus cinctus Norton) is a significant pest for Elymus trachycaulus. The larvae tunnel the stem and disrupt nutrient and water transport, causing yield loss. Management of wheat stem sawfly can be achieved through crop rotation, planting resistant cultivars, planting late, and using insecticides while adhering to labeled instructions.
2. Cutworm: Cutworms are the larvae of several moth species. They feed on the plant's foliage, causing severe damage or even plant death. Cutworms can be managed by removing crop residues as they provide a place for the pest to harbor. Cultivate during spring planting to expose overwintering cutworm larvae, use insecticides while adhering to labeled instructions, and utilize biological control agents such as parasitic wasps and nematodes.
3. Grasshopper: Grasshoppers are a severe pest that can cause severe defoliation in Elymus trachycaulus. Late planting and removal of crop residues can reduce grasshopper populations. Insecticides are also useful in controlling grasshoppers.
Diseases
1. Crown Rust: Crown rust is a fungal disease that causes orange pustules on leaves and stems, leading to reduced photosynthesis. The disease affects the plant's ability to produce food, leading to yield loss. Selecting rust-resistant cultivars, avoidance of high nitrogenous fertilizers, crop rotation, and use of fungicides as per labeled instructions are suitable management options for crown rust.
2. Stripe Rust: Stripe rust is also a fungal disease that causes yellow striping on leaves, which eventually discolor and die. The disease is severe in cool and moist environments. Management options for stripe rust include using resistant cultivars, planting late, avoiding high nitrogenous fertilizers, and using fungicides while adhering to labeled instructions.
3. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes white powdery spots on leaves, covering the whole leaf and reducing photosynthesis. The disease affects the plant's ability to produce food, leading to yield loss. Management options include optimal planting dates, crop rotation, use of sulfur-based fungicides while adhering to labeled instructions, and planting resistant cultivars.
In conclusion, effective management of pests and diseases is critical to successful Elymus trachycaulus production. Integrated pest management strategies that include biological control, cultural practices, resistance to disease, and judicious use of pesticides should be used to minimize negative effects on the environment while maintaining plant production and health.
