Overview of Paspalum glabratum
Paspalum glabratum or weedy crowngrass is a species of grass in the family Poaceae. It is native to North America, where it can be found from the southern United States to Mexico. The plant is commonly known as smooth paspalum or field paspalum.
Appearance
Paspalum glabratum is a tufted, clumping grass that can reach up to 3 feet in height. The leaves are long and narrow, with a smooth margin and a prominent midrib. The stem is cylindrical and often has a purplish color. The flowers of Paspalum glabratum are arranged in a panicle at the top of the stem, and each flower is small and inconspicuous.
Uses
Paspalum glabratum has been used for forage, erosion control, and soil conservation. The grass is also used as a turfgrass in some areas, particularly in golf courses and athletic fields. However, it is generally considered a weedy species that can quickly dominate in disturbed areas.
In traditional medicine, Paspalum glabratum has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and respiratory problems. Some studies have also shown that the plant has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Overall, while Paspalum glabratum has some potential uses, it is generally considered a weedy species that can be difficult to control once established.
Light Requirements
Paspalum glabratum prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade, but growth and flowering will be slower in shaded areas. In full sun, the plant can grow taller and have a more vigorous growth.
Temperature Requirements
Paspalum glabratum can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The optimal temperature range for growth and flowering is between 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -12°C (10°F) and as high as 40°C (100°F), as long as the soil moisture is adequate.
Soil Requirements
Paspalum glabratum prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers soils with a high organic matter content and can benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer.
Cultivation Methods
Paspalum glabratum grows best in rich, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It is a warm-season grass, and therefore, it is important to plant it in the right season. The ideal time for planting is usually in spring when the soil temperature reaches 70?. It is critical to prepare the soil ahead of time by removing weeds and adding organic matter such as compost.
Watering Needs
Paspalum glabratum requires moderate watering once it is established. The grass is highly tolerant of drought conditions and can survive with little water. However, during hot and dry periods, it is crucial to water it regularly. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering intervals to prevent overwatering, which can lead to rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Paspalum glabratum benefits from regular fertilization to thrive and maintain its green color throughout the season. The best time to apply fertilizer is during the growing season in the spring and summer. The ideal fertilizer should contain high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous. However, it is essential not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to detrimental effects on the grass and soil fertility.
Pruning
Paspalum glabratum is a low maintenance grass that requires little pruning. However, regular mowing is crucial to maintain its height and prevent overgrowth. The appropriate height for mowing is 2-3 inches, which helps the grass in maintaining its healthy appearance. Pruning should also be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth and promote new growth.
Propagation of Paspalum glabratum
Paspalum glabratum, also known as spreading paspalum, is a perennial grass species that is native to the southeastern region of the United States. The plant can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and tissue culture.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of Paspalum glabratum propagation. The plant produces seeds that can be collected and sown in the soil during the spring or early summer months. The seeds should be sown at a depth of ¼ to ½ inch and kept moist until germination. The seedlings will emerge in seven to ten days, depending on the soil temperature and moisture levels.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can be used to propagate Paspalum glabratum using plants that are already established. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and planting them in a new location. The best time to divide the plant is during the spring when new growth emerges. The root ball should be divided into several sections, and each section should have at least one healthy shoot.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a method of propagation that involves growing Paspalum glabratum from small pieces of the plant tissue. This method is commonly used in laboratories to produce large quantities of plants with specific traits. The plant tissue is grown in a sterile environment and provided with the nutrients it needs to grow. As the plant tissue grows, it is transferred to new containers until it can be planted in the soil.
Overall, Paspalum glabratum can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and tissue culture. The method used will depend on the desired outcome and the resources available.
Disease Management
There are several diseases that can affect Paspalum glabratum. The most common ones include:
- Fusarium patch: This is a fungal disease that attacks the roots and causes yellowing of the leaves. The affected areas may also appear sunken and the grass may die in patches. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, fertilizing too much, and mowing too low. Fungicides may also be used.
- Gray leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes grayish spots on the leaves. The spots may merge and the leaves may eventually die. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, fertilizing too much, and mowing too low. Fungicides may also be used.
- Pythium blight: This is a fungal disease that causes circular patches of brown grass. The patches may merge and the grass may die. The disease thrives in wet conditions. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, improve drainage, and avoid mowing when the grass is wet. Fungicides may also be used.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and browning of the leaves. The leaves may also appear wilted. The disease thrives in hot and humid conditions. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, improve air circulation, and avoid mowing when the grass is wet. Fungicides may also be used.
Pest Management
There are also several pests that can affect Paspalum glabratum. The most common ones include:
- Mole crickets: These are insects that feed on the roots of the grass. The affected areas may appear brown and the grass may feel spongy. To manage this pest, apply insecticides to the affected areas.
- Chinch bugs: These are insects that suck the sap from the grass. The affected areas may appear yellow and the grass may die. To manage this pest, apply insecticides to the affected areas.
- Armyworms: These are caterpillars that feed on the leaves of the grass. The affected areas may appear brown and the grass may be stripped of its leaves. To manage this pest, apply insecticides to the affected areas.
It is important to note that prevention is always better than cure. Maintaining proper cultural practices such as regular watering, fertilizing, and mowing, can help keep the plant healthy and less susceptible to diseases and pests.
