Origin
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina (Pilg. ex St.-Yves) Hedberg is a subspecies of the Festuca pilgeri species, also known as Pilger's fescue. It is native to central and southern Europe, ranging from the Pyrenees to the Balkans.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as Supine Pilger's Fescue or Spreading Sheep's Fescue.
Uses
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina is popular amongst gardeners and landscapers for their ornamental qualities and as a component of low maintenance turf grass that can withstand slight traffic. It is also used to provide ground cover and erosion control.
General Appearance
This subspecies has fine, narrow leaves that are a bluish-green color that curl outward at their tips giving a clumpy, low canopy. It grows to a height between 10 and 50 centimeters. It produces flowers from May to July, with a pale green spike-like appearance. After flowering, the seed heads turn to a golden brown color that hang down amongst the foliage.
Light Requirements
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina is a plant that thrives in areas with full sun to partial shade. It requires a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight to grow optimally. In areas with hot climates, it may benefit from partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -20°C to 35°C. However, it grows best in areas with temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. It can tolerate mild frost, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage the plant's leaves and stems.
Soil Requirements
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. However, it can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth. Additionally, this plant is drought tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Cultivation
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina prefers well-drained soils, rich in organic matter and slightly acidic soil pH. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant is tolerant of drought, but it adapts well to regular watering in humid conditions.
Watering Needs
Watering requirements for Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina are relatively low. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina benefits from regular applications of nitrogen and other essential nutrients. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can be added once or twice a year to improve soil fertility. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause excessive leaf growth and reduce plant health.
Pruning
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina is a low-maintenance plant that does not require regular pruning. However, if the plant grows too tall or untidy, it can be trimmed back to the desired height in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to improve air circulation and prevent diseases.
Propagation of Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina (Pilg. ex St.-Yves) Hedberg
Festuca pilgeri St.-Yves subsp. supina (Pilg. ex St.-Yves) Hedberg can be propagated through seed or division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Festuca pilgeri should be sown in autumn or spring. The seeds can be sown directly into prepared soil or in pots. If sowing directly into the soil, it is important to prepare the soil by removing weeds and loosening the soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water well. If sowing in pots, use a good-quality potting mix and water well. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings should emerge in about 14 days.
Division Propagation
Festuca pilgeri can also be propagated through division. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring. Dig up the clump and carefully separate the plant at the roots. Replant the divisions in pots or in prepared soil. Ensure that the soil is kept moist and do not let it dry out. Division propagation can help to maintain the vigor of a plant.
Disease Management
Festuca pilgeri subsp. supina is generally resistant to most diseases. However, it may be susceptible to rust and fungal diseases if grown in overly damp conditions. To manage rust, affected plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides may be applied. For fungal diseases, the use of fungicides and ensuring proper drainage of soil can help manage the disease.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Festuca pilgeri subsp. supina include aphids, slugs, and snails. Aphids can be managed through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil. However, care should be taken not to damage the plant with any chemicals used. Slugs and snails can be managed with bait or by removing them by hand. Additionally, placing copper strips around the plants can act as a deterrent since slugs find copper uncomfortable to move over.
