Origin
Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé, also known as smallflower paspalum, is a species of grass that is native to the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Common Names
This plant has several common names, including smallflower paspalum, small paspalum, dwarf paspalum, finger paspalum, and jungle rice.
Uses
Paspalum parviflorum is commonly used as forage for livestock, as it is highly nutritious and palatable. It is also used as a turfgrass in golf courses and athletic fields due to its heat tolerance and ability to recover quickly from damage. Additionally, this plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.
General Appearance
Paspalum parviflorum is a perennial grass that can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are narrow and may be either flat or rolled, with a prominent mid-vein and a slightly rough texture. The plant's flowers are small and green, arranged in clusters along branches that extend from the stem. The seeds are small and oval-shaped, with a brown coloration. Overall, this plant has a delicate appearance, with slender stems and narrow leaves that give it a graceful appearance.
hereLight Requirements
Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé is a warm-season grass that needs plenty of sunshine to thrive. It prefers a full sun exposure, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Insufficient sunlight can lead to slow growth and poor health of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé requires warm temperatures to grow well. The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions, so it can withstand high temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The grass may fail to grow properly or even die when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
The grass prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in different soil types but thrives best in sandy loam soil. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0. It can tolerate soil salinity but prefers a soil with low to moderate salt concentrations. A soil test can determine the soil's nutrient content and pH level, which can help grow the plant to its fullest potential.
Cultivation Methods for Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé
Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé, commonly known as "Smallflower paspalum," is a warm-season grass that grows in a variety of soils and environments. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and needs well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging. Planting should take place in spring or early summer when soil temperatures reach at least 65 F (18 C). You can propagate smallflower paspalum from seed or sod, while plugs and sprigs are also viable options for established growth.
Watering Needs for Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé
Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé requires consistent watering to develop lush greenery, especially during the initial establishment phase. Water requirements usually vary based on soil type, temperature, and rainfall patterns. However, aim to ensure the grass receives 1 to 1.5 inches (2.54-3.81 cm) of water weekly once established. If you reside in an arid region, it may be necessary to irrigate more frequently to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization for Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé
Fertilization is an essential aspect of lawn care for Smallflower paspalum. Start with a soil test to determine nutrient deficiencies before initiating fertilization. Apply nutrients in late spring or early summer and the fall for the cool-season variety. Typically, phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) require a 0.5 pound of product per 1,000 square feet application, while nitrogen (N) varies. For instance, use a 1- to 2-pound nitrogen product per 1,000 square feet application for warm-season types during active growth periods.
Pruning for Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé
Pruning or mowing is also crucial in the proper care and maintenance of Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé. The grass usually grows to the height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 m) and requires frequent mowing to prevent invasion of weeds. The recommended mowing height is at least 2 inches (5.08 cm), and you should, at all times, avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade to prevent shock and damage. Finally, sharpen your mower blades frequently to ensure clean-cutting and avoid tearing the grass blades.
Propagation Methods of Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé
Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé, commonly known as smallflowered paspalum, is an attractive and resilient perennial grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. The plant naturally occurs in tropical and subtropical regions and possesses desirable characteristics such as drought tolerance and rapid regrowth.
Seed Propagation
The most conventional and reliable propagation method for Paspalum parviflorum is through seeds. The first step in seed propagation is to collect the mature seeds from healthy plants. The collected seeds should be thoroughly dried and stored in a cool and dry place until it is ready to be sown.
Prior to sowing, the seeds must be treated with chemicals or stratified to enhance the germination rate. Chemical treatments involve the use of chemicals such as gibberellic acid, potassium nitrate, or thiourea, which improve the seed viability and hasten the germination rate. Alternatively, stratification involves the storage of seeds in cold and moist environments for a certain period to break the seed dormancy.
Once prepared, the seeds can be sown at the appropriate time on well-prepared seedbeds or directly on the field. The ideal temperature for seed germination ranges between 25-30°C, and adequate moisture content and soil fertility are crucial for the optimal growth and development of the young seedlings.
Vegetative Propagation
Paspalum parviflorum can also be propagated vegetatively through rhizomes, stolons, or tillers. Rhizomes are underground stems that grow horizontally and sprout new shoots and roots, while stolons are stems that grow at or below the soil surface and form new roots and shoots at the nodes.
To propagate through rhizomes or stolons, healthy and mature plants should be selected, and the rhizomes or stolons should be cut into sections containing one or more nodes. The sections should be planted horizontally on well-prepared seedbeds, and adequate moisture and soil fertility should be maintained to support the growth of new plants.
Tillers, on the other hand, are lateral branches that develop from the base of the main stem and can be detached and replanted to form new plants. Tillers should be harvested from mature plants, and the cut ends should be treated with rooting hormones before planting in well-prepared seedbeds. Proper care and maintenance should be given to ensure the successful establishment of the new plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé
Paspalum parviflorum Rohde ex Flueggé, also known as thinflower Paspalum, is a warm-season grass species commonly found in North, Central, and South America. This species is widely used for turf grass, forage, and erosion control. However, like any other plant species, P. parviflorum is susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause significant damage to the plant if left untreated.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting P. parviflorum is dollar spot disease caused by Sclerotinia homoeocarpa fungus. Symptoms of this disease include small circular spots on the leaves that turn white or tan as the disease progresses. The disease can cause significant damage to the leaves, resulting in thinning of the turf. To manage this disease, avoid excessive watering, and maintain adequate soil fertility. Application of fungicides may also be necessary in severe cases.
Another common disease affecting P. parviflorum is Pythium blight caused by Pythium spp. Symptoms of this disease include irregular-shaped brown patches on the turf with a greasy appearance. Excessive moisture, high humidity, and poor drainage are favorable conditions for this disease. To manage this disease, proper irrigation practices should be followed to prevent waterlogging and dampness. Implementing good soil drainage and using fungicides can also help control this disease.
Common Pests
Cutworms are the primary pest affecting P. parviflorum. Cutworms are the larvae of moth species that feed on the plants' leaves and stems, causing significant damage to the turf. Symptoms of cutworm damage include large dead patches in the turf, irregularly shaped holes, and uneven surfaces. To manage cutworms, avoid overfertilizing the turf and maintain proper irrigation practices to reduce moisture content in the soil. Applying insecticides may also be necessary in severe infestations.
Armyworms are another pest that affects P. parviflorum, causing significant damage to the turf. Armyworms are the larvae of moth species that feed on the tender leaves, causing severe defoliation. Symptoms of armyworm infestation include stripped foliage, missing plant parts, and brown patches on the turf. To manage armyworms, maintain proper irrigation practices and avoid overfertilizing the turf. Applying insecticides can help control this pest.
Overall, a combination of cultural, physical, and chemical control measures should be implemented to manage diseases and pests affecting P. parviflorum adequately. Implementing good soil drainage, proper irrigation practices, and adequate fertilization can help prevent many diseases and pests. Physical control measures such as handpicking or using barriers can also help control pest infestations. Where necessary, chemical control measures, such as the application of fungicides and insecticides, should be done following recommended guidelines.
