Origin
Eragrostis pilosa (L.) P.Beauv. subsp. neglecta H.Scholz is also known as stinkgrass. It is a perennial grass that is native to both North and South America.
Common Names
Stinkgrass is the most commonly used name for this plant. Other names include weedy lovegrass, hairy Eragrostis, and roadgrass.
Uses
Stinkgrass has little value as a forage plant, but it is commonly used in the field of ecology. As a pioneer plant, it is often found growing in disturbed areas, which helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion. Additionally, the plant is used for erosion control purposes on roadsides and other exposed areas. The seed of stinkgrass has also been used as a source of food for some birds.
General Appearance
Stinkgrass is a small grass that grows to a height of 30-90 cm. The leaves are narrow, flat, and green, with a rough texture. The stems are also green, and they often have a reddish tint near the base. Stinkgrass produces small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom from July to October. The seeds are small, light brown, and borne in clusters.
Light Requirements
Eragrostis pilosa subsp. neglecta thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can survive under direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours per day. In areas with intense heat, the plant may require partial shade to avoid burning.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from as low as 0°C to 45°C. However, the ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can tolerate brief periods of frost but may experience damage if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Eragrostis pilosa subsp. neglecta prefers well-draining soils with moderate fertility. It can grow in sandy, clay, and loamy soils. The ideal pH range for the plant is between 5.5 and 8.0, although it can tolerate mildly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. The plant is drought tolerant and can persist in areas with low rainfall.
Cultivation methods
Eragrostis pilosa (L.) P.Beauv. subsp. neglecta H.Scholz can be cultivated by sowing the seeds directly into the soil during the spring season. The soil must be well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The seeds must be placed at a depth of 1 cm and spaced at a distance of 20-25 cm. The plant requires a warm and sunny environment to thrive.
Watering needs
Eragrostis pilosa (L.) P.Beauv. subsp. neglecta H.Scholz needs regular watering for healthy growth. The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the summer season, the plant must be watered more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to avoid it.
Fertilization
Eragrostis pilosa (L.) P.Beauv. subsp. neglecta H.Scholz benefits from regular fertilization for better growth and development. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizer must be applied during the growing season, and it's essential to avoid overfertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduce flowering.
Pruning
Eragrostis pilosa (L.) P.Beauv. subsp. neglecta H.Scholz requires minimal pruning. The plant has a natural tendency to grow in a compact shape and doesn't require much shaping. However, pruning the plant can encourage new growth and make it look more attractive. The plant can be pruned during the late winter or early spring season to remove any dead or diseased stems and promote new growth.
Propagation of Eragrostis pilosa subsp. neglecta
Eragrostis pilosa subsp. neglecta H.Scholz, commonly referred to as hairy lovegrass, is a warm-season grass that is native to Africa. It is widely cultivated as a forage crop and ornamental plant in many parts of the world due to its drought-tolerant and hardy nature. Propagation of this species can be done through several methods, including:
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the easiest and most common method for Eragrostis pilosa subsp. neglecta. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in containers filled with a well-draining potting mix during the spring or summer months, when the soil temperature is warm enough. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about ¼ inch and watered regularly until the seedlings emerge.
Seed propagation can also be done through scarification, i.e., mechanically breaking or scratching the seed coat, to improve the germination rates. After scarification, the seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours before planting.
Vegetative propagation
Eragrostis pilosa subsp. neglecta can be propagated vegetatively through stem or root cuttings. This method is more commonly used for forage production than ornamental purposes. The stems or roots should be cut into sections of about 6-8 inches long and planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist until they establish roots.
Division
Dividing established clumps of Eragrostis pilosa subsp. neglecta is a useful propagation method for ornamental purposes. This method can be done in the spring or fall, and the clump should be divided into sections with at least one stem and one root per section. Each section should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly until established.
Disease Management
Eragrostis pilosa is susceptible to a range of diseases, including leaf rust, leaf blight, and leaf spot.
Leaf rust: This disease is characterized by orange or brown pustules on the leaves. It can be managed by always removing infected plant parts and using fungicides.
Leaf blight: Symptoms of leaf blight include yellowing and browning of leaves. The disease can be prevented by improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicide can also be applied.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot causes brown, yellow, or black spots on the plant's leaves. Remove and dispose of infected leaves, and apply fungicides to minimize future infections.
Pest Management
Eragrostis pilosa can be affected by various pests, including grasshoppers, aphids, and spider mites.
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers can eat the leaves and stems of the plant. Encourage predators like birds to control the population. Insecticides can also be used as a last resort.
Aphids: Aphids suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and distortion. Use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to remove them.
Spider mites: Spider mites build webs and feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and browning of leaves. Remove and dispose of infected leaves, and use insecticides if necessary.
Cultivating healthy plants is the best defense against diseases and pests. Provide proper irrigation, fertilization, and pruning to keep the plant healthy and prevent stress. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests or diseases and take immediate action. By following these tips, the Eragrostis pilosa plant can thrive and avoid major pest and disease outbreaks.
