Origin
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius, also known as intermediate wheatgrass, is a native perennial bunchgrass that can be found across North America. It is particularly prevalent in the Northern Great Plains and the Intermountain West regions of the United States.
Common Names
Intermediate wheatgrass is commonly referred to as Elymus intermedius, Virginia wildrye, or bearded wheatgrass. It is also known by its scientific name Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius.
Uses
Intermediate wheatgrass has a multitude of uses. It is often used in reclamation projects to stabilize soils and prevent erosion. It is also a popular choice for wildlife habitat as it provides cover and food for many species. Additionally, intermediate wheatgrass is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock and as a hay crop for harvest.
General Appearance
Intermediate wheatgrass is a tall bunchgrass that can reach heights of up to six feet. It has a deep root system that allows it to tolerate drought and poor soils. The stems are rigid and erect, and the leaves are long and slender with prominent veins. The seed heads are long and narrow, and the seeds are covered in long awns that give the plant its "bearded" appearance.
Light Requirements
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush is a sun-loving plant. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight, preferably in the morning and afternoon. Without sufficient sunlight, the plant will have stunted growth and may not produce flowers or seeds.
Temperature Requirements
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows best in areas with a temperate climate, with temperatures between 60°F (15.6°C) and 80°F (26.7°C). The plant is also able to tolerate hot summers and cold winters.
Soil Requirements
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush is adaptable to most soil types but prefers well-draining soils. It can tolerate soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can grow in soils that are sandy, loamy, or clayey. However, the plant may not survive in soils that are constantly wet or poorly drained.
Cultivation of Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush, commonly known as creeping wild rye or Virginia wild rye, is a perennial cool-season grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is commonly found in open woodlands, prairies, and savannas, in rocky soil types with dry to mesic conditions. Here are some cultivation tips for growing Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush.
Watering Needs
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush needs adequate water to grow, especially during the initial stage of establishment. Once the plant is established, it can tolerate moderate drought conditions. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other fungal problems. Water the plant deeply but less frequently is a good strategy to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization
For Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush, fertilization is usually not required. If you need to fertilize, apply a slow-release, granular, nitrogen-based fertilizer early in the spring when the grass starts to grow. Excessive fertilization can promote lush growth, which can result in increased susceptibility to disease, pest, and environmental stress.
Pruning
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush does not require regular pruning. However, if the plant becomes too leggy or you want to remove old or dead leaves, you can cut the plant back to its basal foliage in late winter or early spring. This will stimulate new growth and rejuvenate the plant. It is essential to use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant and to reduce the risk of disease.
Propagation of Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. The best time to propagate this plant is in the spring or early summer when the soil temperatures are between 60-70°F. There are three main methods for propagating Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush, namely:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush is by seed. You can collect the seeds from mature plants in the late summer or early fall. The seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until you are ready to sow them. Sow the seeds in soil that is moist but well-drained and ensure that the site receives sunlight. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks after sowing.
Division
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush can also be propagated by division. This should be done in the spring or early fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the clump of the plant and gently separate it into several smaller sections. Make sure each section has roots and shoots. Replant each section in a suitable location and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Root Cuttings
Root cuttings are another way to propagate Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius (Vasey) Bush. Take the cuttings from the plant in the early spring before new growth emerges. The cuttings should be 2-3 inches long and have at least two nodes. Plant the cuttings vertically in a mixture of soil and sand. Keep the soil moist and within a few weeks, new shoots should emerge.
Disease Management
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Crown Rot Disease
Crown rot is caused by the fungus Fusarium pseudograminearum. The first symptoms are wilting and yellowing leaves, followed by the death of the plant's crown. To manage the disease, remove the affected plants and destroy them. Practice crop rotation and avoid planting susceptible crops in the same area.
Leaf Rust Disease
Leaf rust disease is caused by the fungus Puccinia sparganioides. The first symptoms are yellow-orange spots on the leaves, which later develop rusty colored pustules. To manage the disease, remove the affected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead irrigation, as it promotes the spread of the fungus.
Bacterial Blight Disease
Bacterial blight is caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas syringae. The first symptoms are water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which later turn dark brown and become dry. To manage the disease, remove the affected leaves and destroy them. Practice good sanitation and crop rotation.
Pest Management
Elymus virginicus L. var. intermedius is also vulnerable to various pests. Here are some common pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Wireworms
Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles. They feed on plant roots, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the aboveground parts. To manage wireworms, practice crop rotation and avoid planting susceptible crops in the same area. Avoid overwatering the plants, as it creates a favorable environment for the pests.
Aphids
Aphids are small soft-bodied insects that suck the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and deformation of the leaves. To manage aphids, release natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the population. Avoid overfertilizing the plants, as it attracts aphids.
Armyworms
Armyworms are the larvae of moths. They feed on the leaves and stems, causing defoliation and reduced yield. To manage armyworms, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad. Practice crop rotation and avoid planting susceptible crops in the same area.
