Overview
Eriochloa borumensis auct. is a type of perennial grass belonging to the Poaceae family. It is native to many countries in South America, including Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina. This plant is often referred to by its common names including "Boro Boro," "Pasto Blanco," and "Bermuda de Chiquitos."
Appearance
Eriochloa borumensis auct. can grow up to three meters in height, with a spreading growth habit. The plant has long, thin leaves that are bright green in color, measuring up to 100 centimeters in length and 10 millimeters in width. The flowers of the plant are arranged in clusters and are light green in color.
Uses
Traditionally, Eriochloa borumensis auct. has been used for a variety of purposes. In Colombia, it was used for animal feed because of its high protein content. The plant was also used to make brooms and baskets due to its flexible stems. Additionally, the plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever and stomach problems.
Today, the plant is still used for animal feed and is grown as a forage crop in many parts of South America. It is also used in landscaping and erosion control due to its spreading growth habit and ability to stabilize soil.
Light Requirements
Eriochloa borumensis requires full sun to partial shade to grow optimally. In low light conditions, the plant tends to grow leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in tropical and subtropical climates with warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. During the winter season, the temperature should not drop below 10°C to prevent damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Eriochloa borumensis prefers well-draining and slightly acidic soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and contain adequate amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils.
Cultivation methods
Eriochloa borumensis auct. can be cultivated in full sun or partial shade. This plant prefers soil that is well-draining and sandy, although it can also grow in soils that are less well-drained or loamy. Eriochloa borumensis auct. generally grows well in wet or marshy soils. Seeding during the wet season can improve germination rates, and it is recommended to spread the seeds only as deep as the width of the seed itself.
Watering needs
Eriochloa borumensis auct. needs to be watered regularly throughout the growing season. This plant prefers moist soil, and it is recommended to keep the soil consistently moist to ensure proper growth. However, it is essential not to oversaturate the soil as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Eriochloa borumensis auct. requires regular fertilization during the growing season to maintain its healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer that has equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilizing with a slow-release fertilizer can provide sustained nutrition throughout the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning of Eriochloa borumensis auct. is generally not necessary, but removing dead or diseased plant parts can help maintain the plant's health. It is advisable to remove any damaged stems or leaves as soon as they are discovered to prevent further spread of the damage.
Propagation of Eriochloa Borumensis
Eriochloa borumensis can be propagated through both seed and vegetatively.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Eriochloa borumensis can be sown directly on the seedbed or in pots. The seeds are small and should not be sown too deep. In the wild, seed dispersal of E. borumensis is through gravity and wind. The seeds are able to germinate when provided with the right conditions. Use moist but well-drained soil and maintain the soil in a moist condition until germination has taken place. The germination period takes around 7 days to two weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Eriochloa borumensis can also be propagated vegetatively, either through division or cuttings. Division involves separating the plant clumps into smaller portions and replanting them in new locations. This can be done during spring or fall by using a garden fork or a spade to separate the roots. During the process, take care to ensure that each portion contains a viable section of the root system.
Cuttings can also be taken during spring or fall. Ensure that the cutting has a node from which new growth will emerge. The cutting can be taken from younger plants to ensure that it will produce roots and grow into a healthy plant. After taking the cutting, remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone before planting it into moist, well-drained soil.
Disease Management
Eriochloa borumensis is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues such as :
Fungal diseases:
Some of the fungal diseases that can affect Eriochloa borumensis include brown patch, rust, and leaf spots. To manage fungal diseases, ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering. Applying fungicides can also help control the spread of fungal diseases.
Pest Management
Eriochloa borumensis is also susceptible to some pests that can have a significant impact on plant growth. Some common pests that affect this plant include:
Grasshoppers:
Grasshoppers can damage the leaves and stems of Eriochloa borumensis, thereby reducing its overall health. To manage grasshoppers, you can use physical barriers such as mesh nets around the plants or use insecticides.
Scales:
Scales can suck the sap from the leaves, stem, or roots, thereby weakening the plant. To manage scales, you can use insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil. Pruning and removing infested plants can also help control the spread of infestations.
Armyworms:
Armyworms are capable of causing significant damage to the foliage of Eriochloa borumensis, causing discoloration and even defoliation. To manage armyworms, you can spray the plants with Bt (bacillus thuringiensis) solution, which is a microbial insecticide that specifically targets armyworms.
