Origin and Common Names
Muhlenbergia commutata (Scribn.) Bush, commonly known as hairyawn muhly, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States, where it can be found in various habitats such as deserts, rocky slopes, and woodlands.
General Appearance
One of the defining features of Muhlenbergia commutata is its fine, dense, and hairy inflorescences. The inflorescences are composed of numerous spikelets and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The grass also has basal leaves that are green-greyish in color and tightly rolled. As the plant matures, the leaves tend to spread out and lose their curls.
Uses
Muhlenbergia commutata is not commonly used in landscaping or gardening due to its unremarkable appearance. However, it is an important plant for native wildlife as it provides food and shelter to various animal species. The seeds of the plant are a food source for birds and small mammals, while the dense growth of the grass can provide cover and nesting sites for birds.
Additionally, this grass species has potential for use in land restoration projects due to its ability to grow in harsh environmental conditions. It has been used in the past to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and hillsides.
Light Requirements
Muhlenbergia commutata requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is a resilient grass that can flourish even in areas with intense sunlight and high temperatures of the summer months. However, a certain level of shading can provide a refuge for the plant during the hottest parts of the day, especially in regions with warm and dry climates.
Temperature Requirements
The climate conditions that favor the growth of Muhlenbergia commutata are characterized by warm to hot summers and mild winters. This grass species is endemic to the western part of North America and prefers temperatures between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive low temperatures, but it can be damaged if exposed to extreme cold or frost.
Soil Requirements
Muhlenbergia commutata is adapted to a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay-rich, as long as the soil is well-drained. However, the ideal growing conditions would involve deep, loamy soil that retains moisture and nutrients. The plant thrives in nutrient-rich soils but can also survive in poor soils. The pH level of the soil can range from slightly alkaline to slightly acidic, but the grass prefers a neutral pH environment.
Cultivation Methods
Muhlenbergia commutata is generally easy to grow and care for. It thrives well in full sunlight and well-draining soil. The plant grows well in most soils, and it can tolerate dry and hot conditions.
The plant is suitable for a xeriscape landscape, and it is ideal for erosion control due to its strong root system. It is also ideal for use as an accent plant or as an ornamental grass in landscaping projects.
Watering Needs
The care of Muhlenbergia commutata is minimal, and it requires infrequent watering once established. The plant prefers dry soil and can withstand drought conditions. Overwatering can kill the plant as it is susceptible to root rot.
Water the plant after planting and during the first growing season to establish a strong and deep root system. Afterwards, water the plant only during prolonged drought conditions or when the leaves start to curl or change color.
Fertilization
Muhlenbergia commutata does not need fertilizers to thrive. The plant is adapted to grow in poor soils and can survive without additional nutrients. Fertilizers can cause the plant to grow too quickly and affect its natural shape and form.
If necessary, apply a slow-release fertilizer with low nitrogen once a year in early spring to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Muhlenbergia commutata requires minimal pruning, and it is not necessary for the plant's health. The plant tends to hold its shape and form without much human intervention.
If necessary, prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Cut back the plant by one-third of its size to promote healthy growth and maintain its form.
Remove any dead or diseased stems and thin out any overcrowding stems to allow air to circulate and prevent fungal diseases.
Propagation of Muhlenbergia commutata
Muhlenbergia commutata (Scribn.) Bush, also known as bush muhly, is a perennial grass that is native to the southwestern United States. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through two methods: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Muhlenbergia commutata can be easily obtained from the plant during the fall season. The seeds are small and can easily be collected by cutting off the seed heads and storing them in paper bags until they are ready for planting.
Before planting, the seeds need to be stratified to break dormancy. Stratification can be done by placing seeds in a sealed container with a moistened paper towel and storing it in a refrigerator for about a month. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-drained soil mixture in pots or directly in the ground. Germination will occur within 2-3 weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted after they have developed their second set of leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Muhlenbergia commutata can be done using division or stem cuttings. Division is best done during the early spring when the plant is actively growing. The plant can be divided by digging up the entire clump and separating it into smaller divisions that have at least one stem and root system attached. The divisions can then be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the ground in well-drained soil.
Stem cuttings can be taken during the early spring when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and should have at least 3-4 nodes. The cuttings can be planted in well-drained soil mixture and placed in a humid environment. Roots will start to form within 2-3 weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted once they have developed a strong root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Muhlenbergia commutata
Muhlenbergia commutata is a native grass to North America. It is known for its high tolerance to drought and hot conditions. Despite its resilience, it can still be affected by pests and diseases. Proper disease and pest management can help ensure the plant's health and longevity, making it an excellent addition to any garden.
Common Diseases
Muhlenbergia commutata is susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust, smut, and anthracnose. Rust, caused by the Puccinia fungus, appears as yellow or orange pustules on the leaves. Smut can cause malformed or stunted growth, and anthracnose leads to the appearance of sunken, dark-colored lesions on the leaves.
Pest Management
Common pests that can affect Muhlenbergia commutata include spider mites, aphids, and grasshoppers. Spider mites are challenging to detect but can be identified by the small yellow or white spots on leaves. Aphids can cause the leaves to curl and yellow, and grasshoppers consume entire plant parts or the entire plant itself.
The following measures can be taken to manage pests:
- Use insecticide soap for aphids and spider mites and ensure the plant is well-watered.
- Use insecticide sprays, natural predators such as ladybugs, or insecticidal dust for grasshoppers.
Disease Management
The following measures can be taken to manage diseases:
- Remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately.
- Avoid overhead watering to help prevent rust and other fungi from spreading.
- Apply fungicide to prevent fungus spores from germinating on the plant.
Proper plant care, including fertilizing the plant when it is dormant and watering it regularly, can also help ensure its health and resilience against pests and diseases.
