Origin
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden is a hybrid plant that originated in North America. It is believed to have been produced by the crossing of Elymus trachycaulus and Elymus glaucus, two grass species commonly found in parts of Canada and the western United States.
Common Names
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden is commonly known as Vancouver wheatgrass, California beardless wildrye, and leading wildrye. The plant is called Vancouver wheatgrass due to its origins near Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. California beardless wildrye and leading wildrye refer to its wide range in California and its leading role as a primary vegetation cover in some areas.
Uses
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden is utilized in many areas as a quick-growing, long-lasting perennial forage, cover crop, and erosion control agent. It is also used in many reclamation projects in North America, particularly on disturbed soils due to its tolerance to both drought and frost. Additionally, Vancouver wheatgrass is used for landscaping and as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and naturalized areas.
General Appearance
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden is a perennial grass that can grow from 30-120 cm tall. The leaves are green and can grow from 10-30 cm long and 0.3-1.3 cm wide. The plant's inflorescence consists of several spikelets that grow up to 15 cm long and have many tiny green and yellow flowers. Vancouver wheatgrass is often a bluish-green color and does not have awns (bristle-like appendages common to many grasses), giving it the common name beardless wildrye.
Light Condition
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden prefers full sun to light shade conditions. It can tolerate shade conditions for a maximum period of 4-5 hours per day. However, to ensure healthy growth, it is recommended to grow it in full sunlight.
Temperature Condition
The plant is adapted to cold climatic conditions and can tolerate temperatures as low as -15 °C. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 15 °C to 21 °C during the growing season. Extreme heat conditions for an extended period can damage the plant and hinder its growth.
Soil Requirement
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden requires well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soils ranging from alkaline to slightly acidic. However, it prefers nutrient-rich, sandy loam or clay loam soil. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil to provide better drainage and increase fertility. The optimum pH range for the plant is between 6.0 and 7.5.
Cultivation methods
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden can be easily cultivated in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soils but can tolerate moderately saline soils and drought conditions.
Watering needs
Watering practices will depend on the climate and soil conditions. In hot and dry weather, regular deep watering is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In cooler weather and rainy seasons, watering can be reduced to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden does not require fertilization if grown in healthy soil. However, if the soil is depleted, fertilization can help improve plant growth. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden does not require pruning, but pruning can help maintain a neater appearance. Dead or damaged leaves can be removed to promote new growth. The plant can also be cut back to the ground after flowering to prevent self-seeding and provide a fresh start for the next growing season.
Propagation of Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden, commonly known as Vancouver wheatgrass, is a cool-season perennial grass. This plant is propagated by various methods, such as seeds, root division, and rhizome division, to establish new plants.
Seed Propagation
Vancouver wheatgrass can be propagated by seed, which should be collected during the late summer months. The seed can be sowed directly outdoors or in containers. Before planting, the seed must be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until the time of planting. The seed should be sowed in well-draining soil with good moisture retention. It is recommended to maintain soil moisture until the seedlings are well established.
Root Division
Dividing the roots of Vancouver wheatgrass is another way of propagating the plant. This method involves digging up the plant and separating the roots into smaller sections. The root sections can then be planted in well-draining soil with good moisture retention. Regular watering is necessary to ensure successful establishment.
Rhizome Division
Vancouver wheatgrass also can be propagated by rhizome division, which involves digging up the plant and dividing the rhizomes into smaller sections. The rhizome sections can then be planted in well-draining soil with good moisture retention. Adequate watering is necessary to ensure successful establishment.
Disease and Pest Management for Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden
Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden, commonly known as California wildrye, is a cool-season bunchgrass native to California and parts of Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. This plant is incredibly tough and disease-resistant, but it can still fall victim to some common diseases and pests, including:
Diseases:
Crown and Stem Rot: Crown and stem rot can damage the lower stem of the plant and cause the leaves to yellow and the plant to wither. This disease is caused by wet soil conditions and can be managed by improving drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or yellow spots on the leaves. To manage rust, you can prune off damaged leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pythium Root Rot: Pythium root rot is a soil-borne disease that damages the roots of the plant and can cause stunting and wilting. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and plant in well-draining soil.
Pests:
Wireworms: Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles and can damage the roots of the plant, causing wilting and stunting. To manage this pest, plant California wildrye in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.
Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of several species of night-flying moths and can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this pest, remove weeds and debris surrounding the planting area and use row covers.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can damage the foliage of the plant and cause yellowing and wilting. To manage these pests, use barriers and traps and remove any debris that might provide a habitat for them.
Overall, Elymus ×vancouverensis Vasey var. californicus Bowden is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. However, taking steps to manage the diseases and pests that can affect it will help to ensure its long-term health and vitality.
