Overview
Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong is a type of grass species that has various common names depending on its location. It is native to North America, but it can also be found in other parts of the world where it has been introduced. This grass species can grow up to 5 feet tall and has a distinct appearance that makes it easy to identify.Common Names
The Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong is commonly referred to as the redtop panicgrass, redtop panicum, or simply redtop. In some areas, it is also called the Highland panic grass or Highland panicum.Appearance
This grass species can grow up to 5 feet tall and has a bunch-like growth habit. The leaves are flat and can be up to a foot long. They have a bluish-green color and are smooth or slightly hairy on the upper surface and rough on the lower surface. The stems are slender and slightly swollen where the leaf sheaths are attached. The seed heads are reddish purple and can be up to 6 inches long. Each seed head can contain up to 300 seeds.Uses
Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong is commonly used for both forage and erosion control. It is often grown as a forage crop for livestock because it is highly palatable and nutritious. The grass is also used to control erosion and stabilize soils in areas such as roadsides, pastures, and disturbed lands. In conclusion, Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong is a native North American grass species with various common names such as redtop panicum, Highland panic grass, and Highland panicum. It can grow up to 5 feet tall, has flat bluish-green leaves, and reddish-purple seed heads. This grass species is commonly used for forage and erosion control purposes.Light Requirements
Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and development. If the plant is grown in a shaded area, it may become leggy and have weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to North America and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9. However, it prefers warm temperatures and can thrive in areas with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F during the day and 60°F to 70°F at night. The plant can go dormant during the winter months and will regrow in the following spring.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in multiple types of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. It can grow in dry to moderately moist soils and is somewhat drought-tolerant. The soil should be properly fertilized with a balanced fertilizer, and the pH should be monitored regularly to ensure the plant is growing in optimal conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong, commonly known as redtop panicgrass, is a warm-season, long-lived perennial plant that is primarily grown for forage production. It is adapted to a wide range of soils, from sandy loams to heavy clays, and can tolerate moderate salt concentrations. Redtop panicgrass can be established through either seed or vegetative propagation, but seed propagation is most commonly used due to its ease and cost-effectiveness. It is recommended to plant the seed in late spring or early summer in soil that has been well-tilled and prepared with fertilizer. After planting, the seed should be covered with a thin layer of soil and regularly watered until germination occurs.
Watering Needs
Redtop panicgrass is a drought-tolerant plant with moderate water requirements, therefore, watering should be done only when necessary. The plant should be watered regularly in the first few weeks after planting to facilitate germination and establishment. After that, watering should be done sparingly, especially during periods of rainfall. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other waterlogged related diseases, and it is advisable to water early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Fertilization
Redtop panicgrass requires regular fertilization to promote optimal growth and productivity. A soil test is recommended to determine the nutrient requirements of the soil. Nitrogen is the most important nutrient required for growth, and it should be applied in two or three split applications throughout the growing season. Phosphorus and potassium can also be applied in the planting hole to facilitate establishment, and additional applications can be made after the first season. Other micronutrients required include sulfur, iron, copper, and zinc, which can be applied in the form of a foliar spray.
Pruning
Pruning of redtop panicgrass is not required as the plant grows back every year. However, regular mowing of the grass is recommended to encourage new growth and prevent weed infestation. Mowing should be done when the grass reaches a height of around 10 to 12 inches to about 4 inches. Mowing should be done with caution to avoid injuring the plants, since the grass can be slow to recover if injured or cut too short.
Propagation of Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong
Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong, commonly known as redtop panic grass, is a perennial grass species that can be propagated through various methods. Propagation is the process of generating new plants from different plant parts, including seeds, cuttings, and division of roots or rhizomes.
Propagation by Seeds
Redtop panic grass can be propagated by seeds that are collected from mature plants during the fall season. The seeds need to be sown in the spring season under conditions that promote germination. They require moist soil and a temperature range of 60-70 °F. The seeds should be sown in a depth that is approximately equal to the size of the seed. It takes about two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of redtop panic grass by cuttings involves taking a stem of the plant and placing it in a growing medium until roots grow. Cuttings should be taken from the plant in the spring season when the stems are actively growing. The stem should be cut at a length of four to six inches and placed in a growing medium that is kept moist. The medium should be well-drained to prevent the plant from rotting. The cutting should be kept in a location with indirect sunlight until it stabilizes.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of redtop panic grass by division involves separating the plant into smaller divisions and replanting each segment. This should be done in the fall season when the plant is not actively growing. The plant should be uprooted, and the root ball should be separated into smaller parts. Each part should contain a piece of the rhizome and stem. The smaller segments should then be planted in well-drained soil and given appropriate care.
Pest and Disease Management for Panicum rigidulum
Panicum rigidulum Bosc ex Nees var. elongatum (Pursh) Lelong, also known as redtop panicum, is a perennial bunchgrass commonly used for conservation purposes, forage, and erosion control. However, this plant can be susceptible to various pests and diseases that can compromise yields and performance. Therefore, proper pest and disease management practices are necessary to ensure optimal performance and survival of Panicum rigidulum.
Common Pests
Armyworms: Armyworms are a common issue in Panicum rigidulum, causing leaf defoliation and stunted growth in plants. To manage armyworms in Panicum rigidulum, consider using insecticides such as permethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin. Ideally, apply the insecticide in the evening or early morning when the armyworms are actively feeding.
Spider Mites: Spider mites can cause leaves to yellow, bronze, or become pale. Infestations of spider mites can lead to defoliation, stunted growth, and reduced yield. To manage spider mites in Panicum rigidulum, consider using insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil.
White Grubs: White grubs can consume root systems, leading to stunted growth, reduced yields, and wilting. Insecticides such as chlorantraniliprole and imidacloprid can be effective in controlling white grubs.
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spot is characterized by tiny, dark spots on leaves that eventually grow larger and become tan or brown. To manage fungal leaf spot, consider applying fungicides containing copper sulfate or chlorothalonil. Fungicides should be used preventively, especially during times when moisture levels are high.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and seeds of Panicum rigidulum, causing dark brown or black spots on infected parts. To manage anthracnose, avoid irrigation methods that keep the leaves wet for long periods and consider applying copper-based fertilizers which can help prevent the disease from occurring.
Corn Smut: Corn smut is a fungal disease characterized by the development of plump galls or tumors on the ears of the plant. To manage corn smut, consider removing and destroying infected plant material as soon as you notice it. You can also use fungicides such as captan to prevent the spread of the disease.
By implementing proper pest and disease management practices, including monitoring plants regularly, quarantine and remove infected material promptly, and using appropriate fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides, you can help ensure the optimal growth, survival, and performance of Panicum rigidulum in your field or garden.
