Overview
Elytrigia dasystachya (Hook.) A.& D. Löve ssp. psammophila (Gillett & Senn) D.R. Dewey is a perennial grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as beach wheatgrass, and it is native to North America. This plant species is typically found in the sandy and alkaline soils of coastal dunes and beaches.
Appearance
Beach wheatgrass is a bunchgrass that typically reaches a height of 30 to 90 cm. Its culms are usually erect, simple, or branched at the base. They are glabrous or slightly scabrous and have 3 to 7 nodes. The leaves are flat and linear, measuring 1 to 3 mm wide and 10 to 50 cm long. The inflorescence is a narrow, dense spike, which measures 5 to 20 cm long and 5 to 7 mm wide. Its spikelets are typically paired, and each spikelet contains 2 to 4 flowers.
Uses
Beach wheatgrass has several uses. It is often planted for dune stabilization due to its ability to tolerate high levels of salt and sand. It is also used for erosion control and restoration of degraded sites. In addition, beach wheatgrass is an important food source for wildlife, especially birds, such as the sanderling and dunlin.
Conservation Status
Beach wheatgrass is not considered a threatened or endangered species. It is widely distributed and abundant in its native range. However, it is important to take into account that beach habitat is highly vulnerable to human disturbance and coastal development, which could affect the plant's abundance and distribution.
hereLight Requirements
Elytrigia dasystachya ssp. psammophila requires full sun to grow properly and reach its full potential. It is not recommended to plant this species in shaded areas as it can result in stunted growth and poor development. Hence, the best location for planting is where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.
Temperature Requirements
Elytrigia dasystachya ssp. psammophila grows best in climates that are arid to semi-arid. It can tolerate a range of temperature conditions, including hot summers and cold winters. Its growth is typically affected by the duration of the growing season, which is determined by the temperature. Spring and summer are the most suitable seasons for growth, with temperatures ranging between 20-30 °C. Winter temperatures do not significantly impact the growth of the plant due to its hardy nature, but they may result in slower growth in comparison with the other seasons.
Soil Requirements
Elytrigia dasystachya ssp. psammophila prefers well-draining sandy soils with low fertility levels. It is naturally found in sandy soils, specifically along the riverbanks, lakeshores, and coastal areas. The species can also tolerate alkaline soils with pH levels ranging from 7.2 to 8.2. It is recommended to grow the species in soils that are not compacted as it can hinder root development. It can also grow in soils with a minimal organic matter content.
Cultivation Methods
Elytrigia dasystachya (Hook.) A.& D. Löve ssp. psammophila (Gillett & Senn) D.R. Dewey, also known as psammophila wheatgrass, is native to North America. This plant thrives in sandy, well-draining soils and is tolerant of drought and heat. It can be propagated through seeds or vegetative methods such as division or cuttings. When planting, make sure to create a hole that is twice the size of the root ball, and space the plants at least 3 feet apart. Psammophila wheatgrass prefers full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Watering Needs
Psammophila wheatgrass is a drought-tolerant plant; however, it still needs regular watering during the establishment period. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week during the first growing season, and reduce watering during the following years. The plant can survive extended periods without water, but it will go dormant during these times.
Fertilization
Psammophila wheatgrass does not need regular fertilization because it obtains most of its nutrients from the soil. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the early spring to promote healthy growth. Alternatively, an organic mulch such as compost or well-rotted manure can be used to improve soil fertility and moisture retention.
Pruning
Psammophila wheatgrass does not require regular pruning, but it may benefit from occasional maintenance to remove dead or damaged leaves and stems. Cut the plant back to the ground in the late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. This process will rejuvenate the plant and promote healthier growth during the upcoming season.
Propagation of Elytrigia dasystachya ssp. psammophila
Elytrigia dasystachya ssp. psammophila, commonly known as sand wild rye, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to the western United States, where it grows in dry, sandy environments with full sun exposure.
The plant is commonly propagated through vegetative means, such as rhizome division and stem cuttings. Rhizome division is the most common and effective propagation method for this species. It involves dividing the plant's thick, underground rhizomes, which are segmented and produce new shoots. Rhizomes should be divided in the fall or early spring before new growth appears.
Stem cuttings are another method of propagation but are less reliable and more difficult. The stem cuttings should be taken in the early spring when new growth appears. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long, taken from the base of the plant, and dipped in rooting hormone before they are planted. The cuttings should be kept in moist soil, covered with a plastic bag, and placed in a warm, brightly-lit area until they root.
Finally, Elytrigia dasystachya ssp. psammophila can also be propagated through seed. The seed should be sown in the fall or early spring in a well-draining soil mix. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will generally germinate in 2-3 weeks if kept in warm, bright conditions. However, this method has a lower success rate than vegetative propagation.
Disease Management
Elytrigia dasystachya ssp. psammophila is relatively resistant to most diseases. However, in certain conditions, it can be affected by some fungal and bacterial diseases like leaf blight, rust, and crown rot. These diseases can reduce the plant's vigor and sometimes cause the death of the affected part or the whole plant.
To control the spread of fungal and bacterial diseases, avoid overhead irrigation, especially during the wet season. In case of severe infection, prune and destroy the infected parts, and use fungicides or bactericides as prescribed by a specialist.
Pest Management
E. dasystachya ssp. psammophila is relatively resistant to most insect pests. However, some common pests like grasshoppers, cutworms, and spider mites can occasionally infest and damage the plant.
To manage insect pests, keep the plant healthy and avoid over-fertilization, which can attract pests. Monitor the plant regularly and remove any plants that show visible signs of infestation before the pests spread. In case of severe infestation, apply appropriate insecticides as prescribed by a specialist.
