Introduction:
Paspalum dissectum (L.) L. is an herbaceous plant belonging to the family Poaceae, and is commonly known as the dissected paspalum. The plant is native to Argentina, South America, but is now widespread and found throughout subtropical and tropical regions of the world.
General Appearance:
The dissected paspalum is a perennial grass that can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall. The plant has slightly compressed stems, and the leaves are long and narrow, usually measuring between 3-7 inches (7.5-18 cm) long and 0.5-1 inch (1-2.5 cm) wide. The stems and leaves of the plant are hairy and rough to the touch, providing the plant with a soft texture.
Common Names:
The plant is known by many common names, including: bajonetillo, capin-coto, capineira, caraguata, capim-carrapicho, capim-de-agulha, tangola, trincheira, and many others.
Uses:
The dissected paspalum is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock, as it has high grazing value and is palatable to animals. The plant also acts as a soil stabilizer and can be used to prevent soil erosion, particularly on slopes, roadways and mining areas. Additionally, the plant extract has been used in traditional medicine to relieve fever, headaches, and urinary tract infections.
Light Requirements
Paspalum dissectum requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is a warm-season grass that thrives in bright light conditions. Shaded areas may result in leggy growth and weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
Paspalum dissectum is a warm-season grass that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, including high heat and humidity. It grows best in temperatures ranging between 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme cold temperatures can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Paspalum dissectum prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (5.5 to 7.5). It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The plant requires adequate soil moisture but can tolerate moderate drought conditions once established. Regular fertilization is recommended to provide essential nutrients and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods for Paspalum dissectum
Paspalum dissectum is a warm-season grass that requires a sunny location and well-drained soil for optimal growth. It can be grown from seed or vegetative propagation, including through sod or sprigs.
Watering Needs for Paspalum dissectum
Paspalum dissectum requires moderate to high levels of moisture to thrive. As such, it needs frequent watering, especially during the summer months when temperatures are high. However, care should be taken to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Paspalum dissectum
Appropriate fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Paspalum dissectum. Applying nitrogen-rich fertilizers in late spring or early summer can promote lush growth and improve the plant's color and density. However, the exact amount and timing of fertilizer application should be based on the soil type and the growth stage of the plant.
Pruning of Paspalum dissectum
Regular pruning can help maintain the appearance and health of Paspalum dissectum. It is recommended to mow the grass regularly to prevent it from growing too tall. However, care should be taken not to cut the grass too short as this may damage the plant. Additionally, removing dead stems and leaves can prevent the buildup of thatch, which can prevent moisture and nutrients from reaching the plant's roots.
Propagation of Paspalum dissectum (L.) L.
Paspalum dissectum (L.) L. is a warm-season grass that can be propagated through several methods including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Paspalum dissectum. The seeds should be planted in warm soil during the early spring or summer months. The soil should be moist but not wet and should be kept consistently moist until germination occurs. It is important to note that seed germination can be slow and inconsistent, so multiple seedings may be required to achieve the desired results.
Vegetative Propagation
Paspalum dissectum can also be propagated vegetatively by using sod, stolons, or plugs. The best time to take sod cuttings is during the warm summer months. Stolons or runners can be planted directly into the soil, but it is important to keep the soil moist and to use rooting hormone to encourage the rooting process. Plugs can be planted by making holes in the soil and inserting the plugs. It is important to keep the soil moist until new growth is established.
Overall, several propagation methods can be used to propagate Paspalum dissectum (L.) L. The most common methods include seed propagation and vegetative propagation through sod, stolons, or plugs. Depending on the desired results, a combination of these methods may be required to achieve the desired growth and spread of the grass.
Disease Management
Paspalum dissectum is generally resistant to most diseases, but it can still fall prey to fungal and bacterial infections. One common disease that affects Paspalum dissectum is leaf spot, which appears as small brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides like chlorothalonil and mancozeb can also be applied as a preventative measure.
Another disease that can affect Paspalum dissectum is rust, which appears as orange or brown pustules on the leaves. To manage rust, remove and destroy the infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides like triadimefon and propiconazole.
Pest Management
Several pests can cause damage to Paspalum dissectum, including mole crickets and chinch bugs. Mole crickets feed on the grass roots, causing yellowing and wilting of the plant. To manage mole crickets, use cultural practices such as mowing high and watering deeply to encourage deep root growth. Insecticides like bifenthrin and imidacloprid can also be applied.
Chinch bugs suck the sap from plant tissues, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage chinch bugs, use cultural practices such as mowing high and watering deeply to encourage deep root growth. Insecticides like permethrin and bifenthrin can also be applied.
It is important to note that when using any pesticides, always follow the label instructions and apply them in a responsible manner to prevent harm to the environment and beneficial organisms.
