Overview
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. is a grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. This plant is native to Australia and is known by several common names, including Blue Jacket Grass, Bully Grass, and Swan Hill Grass.
General Appearance
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. has a tufted habit and grows up to 60cm in height. The leaves are flat, thin, and rigid, with a blue-green color. The plant's inflorescence is a spike-like panicle that carries small purplish brown flowers.
Uses
The leaves and stems of Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. are used for livestock grazing, and the plant's seeds provide a food source for birds. The species is known to have a high drought tolerance and is used in land restoration projects. Additionally, the plant is commonly found in ornamental gardens and has been used in modern landscape designs as a decorative plant.
Light Requirements
Microchloa obtusiflora is a plant that requires moderate to full sunlight to grow properly. The plant grows well in areas where it receives four to six hours of direct sunlight in a day. If grown indoors, it should be kept near a window or under a grow light that provides at least six hours of light a day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth and development of Microchloa obtusiflora is between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. This plant is well-suited to tropical or subtropical climates and cannot withstand frost. If the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, the plant may become dormant or die depending on the duration of exposure. Therefore, the plant must be grown in a stable temperature environment for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Microchloa obtusiflora thrives well in soils with good drainage and a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH. The ideal pH range for the plant is between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is recommended to use a well-draining, fertile soil mix that contains peat moss, compost, or vermiculite. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. is a warm-season grass native to Australia. It is a hardy plant that tolerates dry soils and moderate frost. The plant prefers well-drained soils and grows best in full sun.
Propagation can be done using seeds or established plants. If using seeds, plant them in a well-draining soil mix at a depth of 1 cm. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the seeds should germinate in about 7-10 days. When transplanting, ensure that the soil is well-drained and keep the seedlings well-watered until they become established.
Watering
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. is drought-tolerant, but it needs regular watering to thrive. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid over-watering.
When watering, apply the water directly to the soil around the plant, and avoid wetting the foliage. This helps to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. does not require frequent fertilization. However, applying fertilizer can help to promote growth and enhance the plant's health.
A slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, such as a 10-10-10 or 16-4-8, can be applied in the early spring and late summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.
Pruning
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. does not require much pruning. However, pruning can help to keep the plant looking neat and tidy and can promote healthier growth.
When pruning, remove any dead or damaged stems. Prune back any stems that have grown too tall or are obstructing other plants. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent damaging the plant.
Propagation of Microchloa obtusiflora Benth.
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. is commonly known as prairie threeawn or simply threeawn. It is a perennial grass species that is native to North and South America and widely distributed in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The most common propagation methods for this plant include seed germination and division of mature plants.
Propagation through Seed Germination
The seeds of Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. can be harvested from mature plants during the fall season. The seeds should be air-dried and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time. The best time to sow the seeds is in the early spring after the last frost. It is best to plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
The seeds should be lightly covered with soil, and the soil surface should be kept moist until the seeds germinate. The optimal temperature range for seed germination is between 60°F to 70°F. With adequate moisture and light, the seeds should germinate within two to three weeks. During the first year, the young plants should be protected from extreme heat and cold.
Propagation through Division
Microchloa obtusiflora Benth. can also be propagated through division of mature plants. The best time to divide the plants is in the early spring before new growth emerges.
To divide the plants, carefully dig up the entire clump and gently separate the individual plants. Each plant should have a healthy root system and several stems with foliage. The newly divided plants should be replanted immediately in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
It is important to keep the soil consistently moist for the first few weeks after planting. During the first growing season, the plants may need additional protection from extreme temperatures and excess moisture.
Disease Management
Microchloa obtusiflora is susceptible to a number of diseases, including leaf spot, root rot and smut.
Leaf spot can be managed by removing infected leaves and spraying with fungicides. Root rot can be avoided by planting the grass in well-drained soil. The use of fungicides can also help prevent and manage root rot.
Smut can be managed by removing infected plants and burning them as soon as possible.
Pest Management
Common pests that affect Microchloa obtusiflora include armyworms, cutworms, and grasshoppers.
Armyworms and cutworms can be managed by using pesticides and insecticides. Grasshoppers can be managed using cultural control methods such as removal of tall grasses and weeds, and fencing.
Regular maintenance practices such as fertilization, irrigation, and mowing at appropriate heights can also help prevent pest infestations.
