Origin and Common Names
Melica subulata (Griseb.) Scribn. var. pammelii (Scribn.) C.L. Hitchc. is a species of grass native to western North America. Commonly known as Needlegrass Melic, this plant is found in the mountainous regions of British Columbia, Alberta, Washington, Montana, Idaho, and Oregon.Appearance
Melica subulata is a clump-forming, perennial grass with slender stems that reach a height of up to 1 meter. The leaves are smooth and thin, measuring about 3 to 5 mm wide and up to 30 cm long. The inflorescence is erect and measures about 15 to 25 cm long, bearing spikelets that are up to 1 cm long and have long bristles.Uses
As its common name suggests, Needlegrass Melic has needle-like bristles that may cause injury to grazing animals. However, in some cases, the plant is used as forage for livestock. Additionally, the plant is often used for erosion control and restoration of disturbed soil in plant communities. The seeds of Melica subulata are also gathered for use in traditional Native American food and medicine. In conclusion, Melica subulata (Griseb.) Scribn. var. pammelii (Scribn.) C.L. Hitchc. is a slender, clump-forming perennial grass found in mountainous regions in western North America. It has needle-like bristles, is used for erosion control and restoration, and has traditional Native American use in food and medicine.Growth Conditions for Melica subulata var. pammelii
Light Requirements: Melica subulata var. pammelii thrives in full sunlight or light shade. In areas with very hot summers, filtered shade during the hottest part of the day is advisable.
Temperature: This plant can grow well in a range of temperatures. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of -34°C and a maximum temperature of 40°C. The plant can withstand frost but may experience leaf burn in extremely cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil is excellent for Melica subulata var. pammelii. It is tolerant of sandy or loamy soils, and prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is best to avoid heavy clay soil as it can retain too much water, which can result in root rot.
Water: This plant prefers moderate watering. It should be watered at least once a week, but do not overwater as it may cause root rot.
Fertilizer: Melica subulata var. pammelii does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from application of a slow-release fertilizer once per year at the start of the growing season.
Maintenance: Melica subulata var. pammelii is generally low-maintenance. It may require deadheading of spent blooms to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. It may also need to be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding.
Cultivation of Melica Subulata
Melica subulata (Griseb.) Scribn. var. pammelii (Scribn.) C.L. Hitchc. is a herbaceous plant that is well-suited to cultivation in mild climatic conditions. It requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Melica subulata thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, making it a versatile option for gardens and landscaping projects.
Watering Needs
Melica subulata has moderate water needs. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can become susceptible to fungal growth and rot in areas with poor drainage. During the growing season, water the plant once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and temperature. In hot, dry conditions, it may need more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Melica subulata does not require significant fertilization. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote robust growth. However, excessive nitrogen fertilization should be avoided, as it can lead to soft, weak growth that is more susceptible to disease and pest infestations.
Pruning
Melica subulata does not require significant pruning. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage the plant to produce more flowers and can create a neater appearance. However, it is important to avoid pruning foliage or stems, as this can stunt the plant's growth and make it more vulnerable to damage from pests and diseases.
Propagation of Melica subulata var. pammelii
Melica subulata var. pammelii is an herbaceous perennial plant that prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. The plant can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Melica subulata var. pammelii can be collected from the plant in late summer to early fall, once they have fully matured. The seeds can then be planted in well-draining soil in a greenhouse or outdoors in a prepared seed bed. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which can take between 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be regularly watered until they are mature enough to be transplanted.
Vegetative Propagation
Another method of propagating Melica subulata var. pammelii is through vegetative propagation. This involves taking root or stem cuttings from a mature plant and rooting them in a suitable medium. Cuttings should be taken during the plant's active growth period in the spring and should be 4-6 inches in length. The cuttings should then be placed in a rooting hormone before being transplanted into a prepared bed in a greenhouse or outdoors. The new plants should be watered regularly until they are established.
Disease Management
Melica subulata var. pammelii is generally a healthy plant, but it may suffer from some diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases that may affect this plant:
- Crown Rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium spp. and often occurs in plants grown in poorly-drained soil. The infected plant may exhibit wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing leaves. To manage this disease, try to improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora spp. and is characterized by the formation of round or oval-shaped spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may turn yellow or brown and fall off the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoid overhead watering, and apply a copper-based fungicide to the plant's foliage.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora spp. and can lead to the death of the plant. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing or wilting leaves and a visible decay of the plant's roots. To manage this disease, minimize soil moisture, improve soil drainage, and use a fungicide to treat infected soil.
Pest Management
Melica subulata var. pammelii is also susceptible to pest infestations that can damage the plant. Here are some common pests that may affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause curling or yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, gently wash the plant with water, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs to the area.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on the plant's stems and can cut the plant at soil level. To manage cutworms, remove debris from around the plant, till the soil in the fall to expose the pests to predators, and use insecticides when necessary.
- Grasshoppers: These insects feed on the plant's leaves and stems, causing visible damage to the plant. To manage grasshoppers, protect the plant with netting or row covers, apply insecticides, or attract natural predators like birds and rodents to the area.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant's sap and can cause leaves to appear yellow or stippled. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with water, apply a miticidal spray, or introduce natural predators like minute pirate bugs to the area.
