Origin
Leymus ×multiflorus, also known as big bluegrass, is a hybrid of two North American grass species, Leymus triticoides and Leymus cinereus. It is native to Canada and the United States, specifically in the western regions.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as big bluegrass, blue wildrye, and western wildrye.
Uses
Leymus ×multiflorus is a hardy and adaptable plant, making it a popular choice for erosion control and range and pasture grass. It is also used for soil stabilization and restoration. Additionally, big bluegrass is a valuable forage for livestock and provides wildlife habitat.
General Appearance
The plant has a clumping growth habit and can reach heights of up to 4 feet tall. The leaves are blue-green in color and have a distinct rolled edge. The seed heads are large and open, and can be seen from a distance. The roots are deep and fibrous, allowing for good drought tolerance and soil infiltration.
Light Requirements
Leymus ×multiflorus is a sun-loving plant that requires full sun to grow. It cannot tolerate shade or even partial shade, so it should be grown in a location that gets plenty of sunlight throughout the day. When grown in full sun, this plant will produce more flowers and have a more robust growth habit.
Temperature Requirements
Leymus ×multiflorus is a cold-hardy plant that is well-suited to cooler growing conditions. It can tolerate temperatures well below freezing and is able to grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. When grown in warmer climates, this plant may require supplemental watering during periods of high heat and drought.
Soil Requirements
Leymus ×multiflorus prefers to grow in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. This plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not like to grow in excessively wet soils, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. Ideally, the soil pH for this plant should be between 5.5 and 8.0. Before planting, it is a good idea to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Cultivation methods
Leymus ×multiflorus, commonly known as many-flowered blue-lyme grass, is a hardy and low maintenance ornamental grass that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It prefers full to partial sun and well-draining soil. This plant is adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including acidic, alkaline, sandy, or clay soils. They often grow in clumps, with each clump reaching about 2 to 3 feet in height and spread.
Watering needs
Much like most ornamental grasses, Leymus ×multiflorus is relatively drought tolerant. However, it thrives better when soil moisture levels are kept constant. Water your many-flowered blue-lyme grass deeply once a week during the hot and dry summer months. Reduce the frequency of watering during the cooler, rainy season to avoid overwatering and encourage good air circulation. Always water the base of the plant and avoid getting water on the foliage.
Fertilization
Leymus ×multiflorus has moderate feeding needs. In spring, when new growth appears, use a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer to give it the necessary nutrients for growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as these can cause the plant to produce a lot of foliage with little to no blooms. Over-fertilizing your many-flowered blue-lyme grass can also lead to weak, spindly growth.
Pruning
Many-flowered blue-lyme grass requires little maintenance, and pruning is not usually necessary. However, if you notice that the foliage is starting to look tattered or brown, cut back the entire plant to about 2 to 3 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring. This will help rejuvenate the plant and stimulate new growth. You can also divide the plant every three to four years to control growth or propagate the plant.
Propagation of Leymus ×multiflorus (Gould) Barkworth & Atkins
Leymus ×multiflorus (Gould) Barkworth & Atkins, also known as big bluegrass or hybrid wildrye, is a cool-season perennial bunchgrass that is commonly used for forage, erosion control, and restoration purposes. The plant is believed to be a hybrid of two other native grass species, Leymus cinereus and Leymus triticoides. Propagation of Leymus ×multiflorus can be achieved through various methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Leymus ×multiflorus. Seeds can be directly sown into the soil in early spring or fall when the soil temperature is above 50°F. The seeds should be sown at a depth of approximately one-fourth inch and spaced approximately 6 to 12 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Alternatively, seeds can be started indoors in containers or trays. This method is particularly useful in areas with short growing seasons, as it allows the plants to establish before transplanting. Seeds should be sown in sterile, well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate. The seedlings can then be transplanted into the field in the spring or fall.
Vegetative Propagation
Leymus ×multiflorus can also be propagated vegetatively through stem and rhizome cuttings. This method is particularly useful for establishing new stands or expanding existing ones. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorous plants in early spring or fall. The cuttings should be approximately 6 inches long and inserted into the soil at a depth of approximately one-half inch.
Rhizome fragments can also be used for vegetative propagation. They should be taken from mature plants in the fall and planted at a depth of approximately one inch. The soil should be kept moist until the new plants establish.
Overall, Leymus ×multiflorus is an easy-to-propagate plant that can be established using either seed or vegetative propagation methods. Depending on the planting purpose, one method might be more suitable than the other.
Disease and Pest Management for Leymus ×multiflorus
Leymus ×multiflorus is a hardy plant species that is tolerant to many environmental conditions. However, it is still susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its productivity and growth. Effective management of these diseases and pests is essential to ensure a healthy and productive plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Leymus ×multiflorus and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fusarium Head Blight: Fusarium head blight is a fungal disease that affects the plant's flowers, causing them to rot. This may result in significant yield losses. To manage this disease, farmers should focus on planting disease-free seeds and planting resistant cultivars. Crop rotation and field sanitation also play a crucial role in controlling this disease.
Barley Yellow Dwarf: This viral disease is transmitted by aphids and causes yellowing of leaves and stunted plant growth. Controlling aphids by using insecticides and planting virus-resistant cultivars can effectively manage this disease.
Crown Rust: Crown rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellow pustules to form. This can cause loss of foliage and lowered productivity. Farmers can manage crown rust by using fungicides and planting resistant cultivars.
Pests
Wireworms: Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles and are a significant pest problem in Leymus ×multiflorus production. These pests feed on the plant's roots, causing a lack of vigor and decreased productivity. The use of insecticides and crop rotation is effective in managing wireworms.
Armyworms: Armyworms are caterpillars that feed on the plant's foliage and can cause significant damage. Early detection and timely use of insecticides are essential in managing this pest.
Aphids: Aphids are one of the most common pests that affect Leymus ×multiflorus. These sap-sucking pests weaken the plant, leading to stunted growth. The use of insecticides and companion planting can effectively manage aphids.
Effective management of diseases and pests is crucial for Leymus ×multiflorus production. It is recommended that farmers follow integrated pest management strategies that involve a combination of cultural, physical, and chemical control measures to achieve the best results.
