Overview
Eriochloa meyeriana (Nees) Pilg. subsp. grandiglumis (Stent & J.M.Rattray) Gibbs Russ. is a grass species native to Australia. It is commonly known as Tall Prairie Grass or Meyer's Eriochloa.Description
This plant grows up to 2 meters tall and forms tight clumps of erect stems. The leaves are long, narrow, and rough to the touch. They have a bluish-green color and can grow up to 30 centimeters in length. The inflorescence is a large, dense panicle that can reach up to 60 centimeters in length. Each spikelet contains 3-6 flowers and is covered in a dense layer of white hairs.Uses
Eriochloa meyeriana is commonly used as a forage grass for livestock, especially in drought-prone areas, due to its deep roots and ability to withstand harsh conditions. It is also used for soil conservation and erosion control, as well as for ornamental purposes in landscaping. Additionally, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea and dysentery.Cultivation
Eriochloa meyeriana is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of soil types and conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant can tolerate periodic flooding and drought conditions. Propagation is typically done by seed. The plant can also be propagated through division of clumps.hereLight Requirements
Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis thrives in full sunlight. It requires direct exposure to sunlight for at least 6 hours per day to grow healthily. Insufficient sunlight could lead to stunted growth and a decrease in overall health. Therefore, it is best to plant Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis in areas with maximum exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis grows best in warm temperatures, with an ideal range of 20-35°C. These temperatures are most common in tropical regions where the plant is found naturally. If grown under cooler temperatures, growth may slow down, and the plant might not reach its maximum potential. Frost is especially harmful to its survival and should be avoided at all costs.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis should be well-draining and fertile. The ideal soil pH ranges between 5.5 to 7.5. Areas with poorly draining soil must be avoided so that the roots don't get waterlogged, leading to root rot. The plant's roots should be planted at a depth of 3-4 cm and spaced 10-15 cm apart to avoid overcrowding.
Cultivation
Eriochloa meyeriana, commonly known as Meyer's eriochloa, is a warm-season grass that prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is best grown in areas with a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35°C. The plant is mostly propagated by seeds, which should be sown at a depth of 1 cm in fertile soil. It is recommended to plant the seeds 30-45 cm apart in rows that are 60-90 cm apart.
Watering Needs
Meyer's eriochloa requires moderate watering during the growing season. It is best to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During dry spells, the grass may require more frequent watering to prevent it from drying out. It is essential to avoid over-watering the plant as it may cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
For healthy growth and development, it is recommended to fertilize Meyer's eriochloa with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer in mid-spring when the grass starts to grow actively. It is best to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the application rate and timing. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as it may cause excessive growth and make it more susceptible to diseases.
Pruning
Meyer's eriochloa does not require pruning unless it becomes too tall or unsightly. In such cases, it is best to trim the grass blades with a sharp pair of garden scissors to the desired height. Ensure that the blades are clean and disinfected before pruning to prevent the spread of plant diseases. Deadheading the plant is also recommended to promote new growth and maintain its appearance.
Propagation of Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis
Eriochloa meyeriana (Nees) Pilg. subsp. grandiglumis (Stent & J.M.Rattray) Gibbs Russ. is a perennial grass species that is native to Africa. This plant can be propagated through several methods, including:
1. Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature plants during the harvesting season, which is typically from September to October. After harvesting, the seeds should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time.
When planting the seeds, prepare the soil by loosening it and removing any weeds or debris. Sow the seeds thinly and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds regularly and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
2. Vegetative Propagation
Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis can also be propagated through vegetative means such as stem cuttings. Collect cuttings from healthy, mature plants, preferably during the rainy season. Choose stem cuttings that are about 15 cm long and have at least three nodes.
Dip the bottom end of the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Water the cuttings regularly and keep them in a shaded area until they root and start to produce new growth. Once the new growth is established, the cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
3. Division
Another way to propagate Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis is through division. This method is best done during the rainy season when the plants are actively growing. Dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a healthy root system and a few shoots.
Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and water regularly until they are established. If you live in an area where the dry season is long, it is best to avoid this method as the plants may not have enough time to establish before the dry season begins.
Disease Management
Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis is susceptible to several diseases which can limit its production and quality. Some common diseases include:
- Brown spot: This is caused by Bipolaris oryzae and appears as brown lesions on the leaves. To manage this, plant resistant varieties, crop rotation, and use of fungicides can be applied.
- Brown rust: This is caused by Puccinia melanocephala and appears as orange-brown spores on the leaves. Maintaining field sanitation, use of fungicides, and planting tolerant varieties are good management practices for this disease.
- Smuts: This is caused by Sporisorium erianthi and appears as black masses on the inflorescences. To manage this disease, use certified seeds and fungicides, as well as practicing crop rotation.
Pest Management
Eriochloa meyeriana subsp. grandiglumis is also susceptible to several insect pests, some of which include:
- Rice stem borers: These are the most damaging pests and cause severe yield losses. To manage this pest, use of pheromone traps, cultural practices such as planting early or late, and use of resistant varieties are recommended.
- Yellow stem borer: This pest causes similar damage as the rice stem borer. To manage this pest, use of pheromone traps, cultural control practices, and chemical control using insecticides can be applied.
- Sugar cane aphids: These pests cause direct damage by sucking sap and indirect damage by spreading diseases. To manage this pest, use of resistant varieties, biological control methods, and chemical control using insecticides can be used.
