Origin
Eragrostis procumbens Nees, also known as spreading lovegrass, is a perennial grass species that originated from Africa.
Common Names
Spreading lovegrass is also commonly referred to as Krige Grass, Kweekgras, or Dropseed lovegrass.
Uses
Spreading lovegrass is often used for soil conservation, as it produces a dense cover that helps prevent soil erosion on slopes or areas with loose soil. It is also used for animal forage in areas with low to moderate rainfall, as it can withstand dry periods. Additionally, spreading lovegrass can be used as a component in native grass mixtures when restoring or rehabilitating ecosystems.
General Appearance
Spreading lovegrass has a mat-forming growth habit, with stems that grow up to 60 cm in length. Its leaves are flat, with a blue-green color and can grow up to 10 cm long and 2 mm wide. The inflorescence, or flower head, of spreading lovegrass is a panicle that emerges from one side of the stem and can reach up to 15 cm in length.
Growth Conditions for Eragrostis Procumbens Nees
Light Requirements: Eragrostis procumbens Nees can grow in both full sun and partial shade conditions. However, it prefers open areas with high light intensity.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is adaptable to different temperature ranges. However, it thrives in warm climates with an average temperature of 18°C to 28°C. It can also tolerate low temperatures of up to 5°C.
Soil Requirements: Eragrostis procumbens Nees grows well in different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant also has a high tolerance for soils with low fertility or organic matter content.
Water Requirements: This plant has a moderate water requirement and can tolerate drought conditions. However, it grows best in moist soil with adequate drainage. It can also resist waterlogging conditions for short periods.
Nutrient Requirements: Eragrostis procumbens Nees has a low nutrient requirement, and it can grow in low fertile soils. However, it responds well to nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer applications, which can enhance its growth and biomass production.
Propagation: Eragrostis procumbens Nees can propagate via seeds or vegetative methods such as stem cuttings. The plant has a fast growth rate and can quickly establish under proper growth conditions.
Cultivation of Eragrostis Procumbens Nees
The Eragrostis procumbens Nees plant thrives well in fertile, well-drained soil, and areas with adequate sunlight exposure. It is ideal for cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions. Cultivate it during the early rainy season to take advantage of the added soil moisture.
Watering Needs
Watering should be done regularly, especially during the vegetative growth stage. The Eragrostis procumbens Nees plant requires moderate irrigation, which should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent evaporation. Avoid wetting the leaves as it may cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Apply compost manure a few weeks before planting. This adds more nutrients to the soil for healthy growth. Additionally, add nitrogen-rich fertilizers to promote green, lush blades of grass that tolerate droughts. Fertilizers with a higher percentage of nitrogen help ensure greener grasses. Nitrogen fertilizers should be applied every 4-6 weeks after planting.
Pruning
To keep your Eragrostis procumbens Nees plant neat, you can prune it regularly. Prune off dry, brown grass blades after the flowering period. This ensures that the plant looks neat and remains healthy throughout the year. Be careful not to over-prune as this can affect its growth and development.
Propagation of Eragrostis procumbens Nees
Eragrostis procumbens Nees, commonly known as Ribbon Grass, is a hardy perennial plant that can easily be propagated through seeds and division of root clumps.
Propagation by seeds
The propagation of Eragrostis procumbens Nees by seeds is an effortless and straightforward process. The best time to collect seeds is during the autumn season, once the seeds have matured and turned brown.
The collected seeds can be sown in spring, either by scattering them over prepared soil or planting them in rows. The seeds require slightly moist soil to germinate, and the ideal temperature for germination is between 15-20°C. The seedlings emerge within two weeks and can be transplanted once they have two true leaves.
Propagation by division
Eragrostis procumbens Nees can also be propagated by division. The best time for division is in the spring season, once the plant has become established and started to produce new growth.
To propagate via this method, carefully dig up the plant and separate the root clumps. Each divided section should have a healthy set of roots and shoots. Replant the new clumps in a well-prepared bed or planter. Make sure to water the new plants well and keep the soil moist until they are established.
Propagation by division offers a faster way of propagating Eragrostis procumbens Nees, as the new plants will establish more quickly. This method is also beneficial to the existing plant, as it helps to promote vigorous growth and reduce the size of the plant.
Disease Management
Eragrostis procumbens Nees, commonly known as Sensitive Love Grass, is a hardy plant and rarely affected by diseases. However, there are a few diseases that might affect the plant. The common ones include:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease causes small, black spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. The infected leaves may yellow and fall off, causing defoliation. To manage this disease, it is essential to provide good air circulation and avoid getting water on the leaves and stems. In severe cases, consider using a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust disease causes orange or rust-colored pustules on the plant's leaves. It spreads through the air, and it is essential to remove infected leaves to stop the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Eragrostis procumbens Nees is also relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few pests that might affect the plant, including:
- Scales: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and die. Scale infestations can be managed by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck plant sap, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. It is crucial to control an aphid infestation immediately to prevent the spread of viruses. Aphids can be managed by releasing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings or by using an insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: The larvae of various species of moths and butterflies feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. It is essential to inspect the plant regularly and remove any caterpillars that are found. Consider using a natural pesticide or insecticidal soap if the infestation is severe.
