Origin and Common Names
Eragrostis subulata Nees is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and particularly found along the Cape Province and Karoo regions of South Africa. The plant is commonly called tufted love grass, wire grass, or spitsgras in Afrikaans.
Appearance
Tufted love grass grows up to a height of about 70 cm tall and up to a meter wide. The plant has a fibrous root system with narrow, wiry, gray-green leaves that are about 10-15 cm long. The leaves are rolled tightly at the base with a pointed tip and rough edges that are hairless but slightly ribbed on top. The plant produces spikes of inflorescence that can be pink, mauve or purple, and approximately 15 cm long, with smooth, slightly curved branches that resemble a bottle brush.
Uses
Eragrostis subulata is an ornamental plant that is commonly grown in gardens for its aesthetic appeal. The plant is drought tolerant, easy-to-grow, and attractive to birds and butterflies. It is also used for erosion control and soil stabilization, particularly on barren slopes or construction sites. In addition, the plant is used for medicinal purposes, with its roots, leaves and shoots being used to treat stomach ailments, fever, and skin diseases in some traditional African medicine practices.
Light Requirements
Eragrostis subulata Nees is a plant that typically grows in full sun to partial shade conditions. It prefers bright light for optimal growth and development. In low light conditions, the growth rate may decrease, and the leaves may become lighter in color.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures. The optimal temperature range for Eragrostis subulata Nees growth is between 20°C and 30°C. The temperature must not go below 10°C, which may lead to stunted growth or death of the plant. In areas with cold winters, the plant will become dormant during the winter months, and slow down its growth rate.
Soil Requirements
Eragrostis subulata Nees grows well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6 to 7. The plant prefers slightly sandy soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate drought conditions and low soil fertility but it will not grow well in water-logged soils, as it may lead to root rot. Adequate drainage is crucial for optimal plant health.
Cultivation methods for Eragrostis subulata Nees
Eragrostis subulata Nees can be grown indoors or outdoors. The seeds can be started indoors during early spring or directly sown outdoors after the last frost. It requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure to thrive. The soil pH range should fall between 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch and keep the soil moist until germination.
Watering needs of Eragrostis subulata Nees
Eragrostis subulata Nees requires moderate watering. Water the plant once every week, making sure not to overwater. Always check the soil's moisture level before watering and ensure that the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. In high temperature regions, the plant requires more frequent watering.
Fertilization of Eragrostis subulata Nees
Apply a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus to Eragrostis subulata Nees during the growing period. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid applying fertilizer during the dormant season.
Pruning of Eragrostis subulata Nees
Eragrostis subulata Nees does not require pruning. However, if you want to control its height, you can prune it after the blooming season is over. Use a pair of sharp pruning shears to cut back the plant to the desired size. Prune away any damaged or diseased leaves or stems immediately to prevent further spread of the disease.
Propagation of Eragrostis subulata Nees
Eragrostis subulata Nees, commonly known as tufted love grass, can be propagated through various methods:
Seed propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be sown directly into soil or seed trays. The seeds need to be collected from the plant when they are mature and dry. After collection, they should be stored in a cool and dry place until ready for sowing. The seeds can be sown indoors during the early spring or directly in the field during the fall or winter. After sowing, the soil should be kept moist, and germination usually occurs within 14 to 21 days.
Division
Tufted love grass can be propagated through division. This method involves taking a mature clump of the plant and carefully dividing it into smaller sections. Each section should have its own roots, and the divisions should be planted into their desired location immediately after separation. This method of propagation is best done during the early spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
Cutting
Another propagation method for Eragrostis subulata Nees is through cutting. This method involves taking a cutting of the plant and rooting it in soil. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the summer months and should be approximately 5 to 7 inches long. After cutting, the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted into a well-draining potting soil mix. The cutting should be kept in a well-lit and humid environment until it establishes roots.
Disease Management for Eragrostis subulata Nees
Eragrostis subulata Nees is not prone to serious diseases but may suffer from some fungal infections, such as leaf rust and powdery mildew. Both diseases can cause stunted growth, reduced yield, and even death of the plant. To prevent the occurrence of these diseases, it is crucial to practice good cultural practices, such as regular watering and fertilization.
If the infection already exists, remove and destroy all infected plant parts to prevent the spread. Fungicides can also be applied to control the infection, but it's advisable to seek advice from Agricultural Extension officers on effective and approved fungicides.
Pest Management for Eragrostis subulata Nees
Eragrostis subulata Nees is susceptible to pests, such as spider mites, aphids, and cutworms. Spider mites and aphids suck sap from the plants, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced quality of the plant. Cutworms attack the base of the plant, leading to cutting off the plant perfectly.
One of the most effective ways of controlling pests is by practicing cultural pest management, such as maintaining cleanliness, handpicking, and avoiding overfertilization. You can also use biological control methods like predators or microorganisms to control pests. If the pest infestation is severe, using pesticides becomes inevitable. However, it would be best if you sought expert advice or read labels before applying pesticides.
