General Appearance
Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is small-sized and typically measures only 5-15 cm tall. This grass is distinguished by its unique characteristic of mat-like formation, growing in dense circular patches and spreading over the ground, forming circular mats.
Origin and Common Names
Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone, commonly known as "smooth paspalum" or "carpetgrass," is an indigenous plant to the southeastern part of United States. It is usually found in the coastal plains and low-pH soils of Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and Texas. In addition, this grass species is well-adapted to hot and humid conditions and can tolerate moderate drought stress. It spreads quickly by stolons, making it an excellent choice for ground cover.
Uses
Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone is a popular turfgrass for lawn and landscape use. It requires minimal maintenance and is resistant to many common turfgrass pests such as chinch bugs and webworms. It is also sometimes used for erosion control due to its matting and spreading formation. This species is preferred by livestock owners as a forage species because of its palatability and nutitional value.
Light requirements
Paspalum laeve var. circulare prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In shaded areas, the plant may become leggy and have reduced flowering and fruiting.
Temperature requirements
It thrives in warm, humid climates with temperatures ranging between 70-85°F (21-29°C). This plant is not frost tolerant and requires protection in areas with freezing temperatures.
Soil requirements
Paspalum laeve var. circulare can grow in different types of soil, but it prefers soils that are well-drained and fertile. It cannot tolerate water-logged soils or soils with a pH of less than 5.5 or greater than 8.0. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Additionally, adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure can improve soil fertility and enhance overall growth and performance of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone
Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone, commonly known as field paspalum, is a warm-season grass that is native to the southeastern United States. It can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions, and is commonly used for turfgrass and forage. The plant prefers well-draining soils and full sun exposure. It can be propagated through seeds, sods, or plugs. Planting should be done in spring or summer, when the soil temperature is above 60°F. Sow seeds at a depth of ¼ inch and keep moist until germination occurs, usually within two to four weeks.
Watering Needs for Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone
Field paspalum requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Light and frequent watering can lead to shallow root growth and weak plants. Irrigate in the mornings to allow the foliage to dry before evening, as dampness can increase the likelihood of diseases.
Fertilization of Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone
Adequate fertilization is essential for the health and growth of field paspalum. Apply a complete fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in a ratio of 3:1:2, or a similar ratio recommended by a soil test. Apply the fertilizer in the spring, when the grass starts to green up, and again in the late summer or early fall, before winter dormancy. Avoid applying fertilizer during drought periods, as it can lead to fertilizer burn.
Pruning Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone
Field paspalum does not require regular pruning, but occasional mowing can help maintain its aesthetic appearance and control weed growth. Mow the grass to a height of 1-2 inches, depending on the desired height and use. Avoid mowing during stressful periods, such as drought or heat waves, as it can weaken the grass and increase the risk of diseases.
Propagation of Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone
Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone, commonly known as thin paspalum, is propagated through various methods including seeds, vegetative propagation, and tissue culture.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation involves the collection of mature seeds from the plant, sowing them in prepared soil, and providing the right conditions for growth. Seeds of Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone mature in late summer and fall, after which they can be collected and stored for later use. The seeds should be sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place for later use. Germination usually takes place in 7-14 days and young seedlings can be transplanted after 2-3 months.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves the use of plant parts such as stolons, rhizomes, and tillers, which can be used for growth. Stolons are the horizontal stems that grow above the soil, while rhizomes are the underground stems. Tillers, on the other hand, are the small plantlets that grow from the base of the main plant. Vegetative propagation is a quick and easy method of propagating Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone. The plant can be divided and transplanted at any time of the year.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture involves the propagation of plant cells in a controlled environment. It is a highly specialized method of propagation that requires skill and expertise. Tissue culture can produce large quantities of plantlets in a short period of time. The process involves the use of small pieces of plant tissue, which are disinfected and placed in a nutrient medium. The tissue is then grown in a sterile environment, where it develops into plantlets. This method is particularly useful in cases where plant material is limited or when large quantities of plants are required.
Disease Management
Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone is susceptible to various diseases, including brown patch, dollar spot, Pythium blight, and leaf spot. Brown patch and dollar spot, caused by Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotinia homoeocarpa respectively, are fungal diseases that can appear during prolonged periods of high humidity and temperatures. These diseases cause patches of dead grass and can spread quickly. Pythium blight, caused by Pythium spp., can also cause patches of dead grass, especially in areas with shade, high humidity, and high soil moisture. Finally, leaf spot, caused by Bipolaris spp. and Curvularia spp., can cause small, oval-shaped dead spots on leaves and stems, which can coalesce and cause extensive damage to the plant if left untreated.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to identify the symptoms and signs of each pathogen correctly. It is also crucial to take preventive measures, including cleaning equipment, and avoiding excess irrigation. Treatment options include applying fungicides, using cultural practices, and maintaining adequate soil fertility and drainage. Resistant varieties can also help reduce the incidence of these diseases.
Pest Management
Paspalum laeve Michx. var. circulare (Nash) Stone is also susceptible to various pests, including armyworms, cutworms, and white grubs. Armyworms and cutworms are caterpillars that feed on plant leaves, stems, and roots, while white grubs are beetle larvae that feed on roots, causing damage to plant development and growth.
To manage these pests, it is essential to identify the symptoms and signs of damage, such as leaf discoloration, thinning, and wilting. Preventive measures include removing thatch and debris, using recommended insecticides, and using biological control agents that attack pests. Cultural practices, such as proper mowing and irrigation, can also help reduce the impact of pests on plant health. Early intervention is crucial to preventing significant losses, and regular monitoring is essential to detecting pest infestations early.
