Overview
Melinis nerviglumis, also known as ruby grass or red top grass, is a perennial bunchgrass in the Poaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and is found in various African countries, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has a clumping growth habit. The leaves are long and narrow, with a blade that is around 20-50cm in length and a width of 2-7mm. The inflorescence is a dense spike-like panicle, which appears as a purplish-red color when in bloom.
Uses
Melinis nerviglumis has a variety of uses. In its natural environment, it serves as a fodder plant for grazing animals. The plant is also used for soil erosion control, thanks to its ability to grow in areas with minimal soil nutrients. Additionally, Melinis nerviglumis is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, where it is valued for its beautiful inflorescence.
Beyond its utility in livestock and landscaping, Melinis nerviglumis is also believed to have medicinal properties. In traditional African medicine, a preparation made from the roots and leaves of the plant is used to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, stomach problems, and wounds.
Cultivation
Melinis nerviglumis is a highly adaptable species and can tolerate a range of environmental conditions. The plant can grow in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas that receive as little as 500mm of rainfall per year. For cultivation, the seed is usually planted in early spring or late summer, and the plant can be propagated through seed or division of the clumps.
Light Requirements
The plant Melinis nerviglumis requires full sunlight to grow properly. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. Lack of sunlight can affect the plant's growth and flowering. If you are growing the plant indoors, make sure to place it near a window where it can receive enough sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Melinis nerviglumis can grow in a wide range of temperature conditions. The ideal temperature for the plant is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). These plants cannot tolerate frost. If you are growing the plant in areas with lower temperature or experiencing frost, move the plant indoors or in a greenhouse to protect it from the cold.
Soil Requirements
Melinis nerviglumis requires well-draining soil to grow correctly. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can also grow in sandy soils, but it has to be enriched with organic matter. If the soil is too compact, the roots may not develop adequately, affecting the growth of the plant. Water the plant moderately and allow the soil to dry partially before watering again.
Cultivation Method
The plant Melinis nerviglumis (Franch.) Zizka, commonly referred to as California Melic Grass or Purple Onion Grass, is a perennial warm-season grass that is widely grown in the United States. To cultivate this plant, you should start by selecting a well-drained site that receives full sun to partial shade. Melinis nerviglumis is known to grow in soils with a broad pH range, but it grows optimally in soils with a pH between 5-7.5.
You can propagate this plant from seeds or root division. It is essential to prepare the soil well by tilling to a fine texture and adding well-rotted compost, manure, or fertilizers a few weeks before planting. The optimum time to plant Melinis nerviglumis is in the spring after the danger of frost is over.
Watering Needs
Watering is an essential aspect of growing Melinis nerviglumis. This warm-season grass thrives best in moist soils that are well-drained. You should water your grass regularly, especially during the active growth phase. However, be keen not to overwater as this may lead to waterlogging and rotting of the plant's roots.
Fertilization
Like any other grass, Melinis nerviglumis requires sufficient nutrients to support healthy growth and vigor. You should apply fertilizer to the soil at least once per year to enhance the performance of this species. It is advisable to apply a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in equal measure. You can add the fertilizer shortly before the active growth phase and repeat the application once more in midsummer if the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiency.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep Melinis nerviglumis looking neat and vibrant throughout the season. You should trim the grass to a height of 2-3 inches at least once per year, either in the fall or early spring. Pruning Melinis nerviglumis helps to rejuvenate old and weak growth, encourage fresh and vibrant foliage, and prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
Propagation of Melinis nerviglumis
Melinis nerviglumis, also known as Ruby Grass or Redtop grass, is a perennial grass that is native to South Africa. It is highly valued for its ornamental value and ability to attract birds to the garden. Propagating this plant can be done by either seeds or division of mature plants.
Propagation by Seeds
The best time to propagate Melinis nerviglumis by seeds is during the spring season. The seeds should be sown on the surface of a well-drained seed compost, then lightly covered with a fine layer of soil. Maintain a consistent temperature of 20-25°C and keep the soil moist until seeds have germinated (within 2-4 weeks). Once seedlings have emerged, gradually reduce the moisture and increase the amount of light they receive to harden them off.
Propagation by Division
Division is a more efficient method of propagating Melinis nerviglumis as the division of mature plants produces new plants that will maintain the desirable qualities of the parent plant. Dividing the plant is best done during the spring or fall season, cluster plants to make sure enough roots are extracted. Then sever the clump into smaller sections using a sharp, sterile tool. Each section should have well-developed roots and ideally should have at least one stem bud that will produce new shoots. Carefully plant each section in its permanent location making sure to maintain consistent moisture until the new plants are established.
Disease Management:
Melinis nerviglumis is typically not prone to common diseases. However, some issues such as rust and fungal diseases can affect its growth and development. Rusts appear as powdery orange spots on the leaves and can be treated with a fungicide. Fungal diseases like leaf spot and blight can be prevented through proper watering and increasing airflow around the plant.
Pest Management:
When it comes to pests, there are a few that commonly affect Melinis nerviglumis. The most common pests are aphids, spider mites, and grasshoppers. Aphids and spider mites suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and wilting. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to control these pests. Grasshoppers, on the other hand, eat the leaves and stems and can be managed through physical removal or using insecticides.
