Origin
Eragrostis bifaria (Vahl) Wight, commonly known as Indian love grass, is native to India and Sri Lanka. It belongs to the family Poaceae.
Common names
Indian love grass is commonly known by a few different names, including Muthukkatoppullu in Tamil Nadu, and Abaya in Telugu.
Appearance
Indian love grass typically grows to be about 1-3 feet tall, with narrow, elongated leaves that are usually a blue-green color. The grass also produces flower spikes that range in color from light green to purple, and can grow up to 6 inches in length.
Uses
Indian love grass is often used as an ornamental plant because of its attractive appearance. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in many different soil types. In addition, the grass is also used for soil stabilization in erosion-prone areas. The seeds of Indian love grass also have some medicinal properties and have been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments.
Light Requirements
Eragrostis bifaria requires full sunlight for optimal growth. This plant species cannot tolerate shade or low light conditions, as it relies on photosynthesis to produce energy. Therefore, it is essential to plant Eragrostis bifaria in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Eragrostis bifaria is a warm-season grass species, and it thrives in hot temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant species is between 25°C to 35°C. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C and as high as 40°C. Planting Eragrostis bifaria in areas with temperatures outside this range can negatively affect its growth and survival rate.
Soil Requirements
Eragrostis bifaria is adaptable to various soil types and can grow in poor soils if necessary. However, this plant species prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Eragrostis bifaria can also grow in sandy soils, but the soil should have adequate moisture retention to support its growth. Additionally, adding organic matter like compost or manure can improve soil fertility and support the growth of Eragrostis bifaria.
Cultivation of Eragrostis bifaria
Eragrostis bifaria is a warm-season perennial grass that grows best in sunny areas with well-drained soil and a pH range of 6.0 to 8.5. The plant is drought-resistant and can thrive in dry conditions but requires occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. The grass has a shallow root system, making it susceptible to soil erosion, and it is essential to plant it in areas that are protected from wind and water runoff.
Watering Needs
Eragrostis bifaria requires regular watering to establish new plants, but once established, the grass is drought-resistant and requires minimal watering. Water the grass when the soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The ideal time to water the grass is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not hot.
Fertilization
Eragrostis bifaria does not require heavy fertilization, but occasional fertilization is necessary to promote healthy growth. Supplement the soil with a slow-release granular fertilizer with a high nitrogen content, and potassium and phosphorus as secondary nutrients. Apply the fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and after mowing to provide adequate nutrients to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Eragrostis bifaria. However, mowing the grass infrequently will benefit the plant's health. Leave three to six inches of stem above the ground to promote regrowth. Avoid mowing when the grass is wet or has recently been fertilized, as this can damage the plant.
Propagation of Eragrostis bifaria (Vahl) Wight
Eragrostis bifaria, also known as weeping lovegrass, can be propagated through various methods including seed germination, vegetative propagation, and division.
Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate Eragrostis bifaria is through seed germination. Seeds can be collected from mature plants in late summer or purchased from a reputable supplier. Since the seeds have tough outer coats, they should be scarified, either mechanically or chemically, before sowing. The best time to sow the seeds is in early spring. The seeds should be sown on a clean, well-drained, and moist soil surface and lightly covered with soil. A germination percentage of up to 90% can be achieved if the soil is kept consistently moist and warm until the seeds germinate in 7 to 14 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another way to propagate Eragrostis bifaria. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them to grow into new plants. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The stem sections should be 3 to 4 inches long and have a few leaves attached. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, then plant them in moist soil and keep them in a warm, humid spot. With regular watering and misting, the cuttings should root in 2 to 4 weeks and can be transplanted to a larger pot or a permanent spot in the ground.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Eragrostis bifaria, which involves separating the clumps of the root system and replanting them. This method is best done during early spring or fall, when the plant is dormant. Dig up the entire clump, then gently pry apart the roots with your hands or with a garden tool. Each new division should have a few shoots and roots. Plant each division in a prepared bed or container with well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Disease Management:
Eragrostis bifaria is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it may be susceptible to certain fungal diseases such as rust and smut, particularly in areas with high humidity. Rust is characterized by orange or brown pustules on the leaves, while smut appears as black, powdery masses on the inflorescence.
To manage rust and smut, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing and destroying affected plant parts. Fungicides may also be applied as a preventative measure or to mitigate an outbreak.
Pest Management:
Eragrostis bifaria is also relatively resistant to pests. However, grasshoppers and other chewing insects may occasionally damage the plant by feeding on the leaves.
To manage grasshoppers and other pests, cultural methods such as crop rotation, intercropping with repellent plants, and physical barriers may be employed. Insecticides may also be applied as a last resort, but care should be taken to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators.
