Overview
Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. is a warm-season, creeping perennial grass that is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. This species is known for its hardiness and adaptability, making it a popular choice for turfgrass and forage production in various climates.
Origin and Common Names
Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. is native to South America, specifically Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Chile. It is commonly known as creeping paspalum, Brazilian zoysia, or by its scientific name.
Appearance
Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. has a fine, dense texture and forms a thick mat from stolons and rhizomes, which allows it to spread rapidly. Its leaves are narrow and pointed, with a glossy dark green color. The stems are slightly flattened and smooth. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall, and can handle high traffic and heavy use.
Uses
Due to its durability and ability to handle various climates, Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. is commonly used as a turfgrass in golf courses, parks, and residential lawns. It is also used as a forage crop for grazing animals such as cattle and sheep. Additionally, it has been used in the bioremediation of contaminated soils and water.
hereLight Requirements
Paspalum repens grows best in full sun or partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it can benefit from a little afternoon shade to avoid stress caused by extreme heat. Too much shade can result in weak growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Paspalum repens grows well in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth is 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20-30°C). It cannot tolerate frost or prolonged periods of cold weather.
Soil Requirements
Paspalum repens can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate some soil acidity, but not alkaline conditions.
It is drought-tolerant, but benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
Fertilization can help promote growth and improve the plant's appearance. A balanced fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio of 3:1:2 is recommended.
Cultivation
Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. is a warm-season grass that prefers a tropical or subtropical climate with consistently warm temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and it needs plenty of sunlight.
This species can be grown from seeds, plugs, or sprigs. It should be planted in a well-draining soil mixed with organic materials such as compost or manure to enhance soil fertility and structure. Planting should be done in early spring when the soil is moist, and the temperature is warm enough to promote growth.
It is advisable to choose a site with enough space to allow the spread of the grass to occur naturally without any restriction.
Watering
Regular watering is crucial to maintain the growth and health of Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. This species needs enough moisture in the soil, but it cannot tolerate waterlogging since it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
It is recommended to water the grass deeply once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and the moisture level of the soil. In periods of high rainfall, it may require less frequent watering, but in a dry spell, it may need more frequent watering to prevent drought stress.
Fertilization
Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. is a heavy feeder and needs sufficient nutrients to survive and thrive. Fertilization should be done according to the soil type and the grass's growth rate.
It is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 every four to six weeks during the growing season. Slow-release fertilizers can also be used to distribute the nutrients evenly over a more extended period.
It is important not to over-fertilize since this can lead to excessive growth and susceptibility to disease and pests.
Pruning
Paspalum repens auct. non Berg. needs minimal pruning since it is a low-maintenance ground cover that does not require frequent cutting.
It is recommended to mow the grass when it exceeds three inches in height to maintain a neat appearance and promote lateral growth. The ideal mowing height is about one inch, but it can vary depending on the desired look and use of the grass.
Trimming can be done every three to four months to remove any dead foliage and rejuvenate the grass as it grows.
Propagation of Paspalum repens
Propagating Paspalum repens is relatively easy as it can be done through various methods including seeds, division, and stolon cuttings. Below are the common propagation methods used for this plant.
Propagation through Seeds
Seed propagation is one of the primary methods of propagating Paspalum repens. The seeds must be collected during the dry season, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. Before planting, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to help with germination. The best time to plant the seeds is in spring when the temperature is warm enough to stimulate growth.
Propagation through Division
Division is another method of propagating Paspalum repens. The best time for division is in early spring when the plant is still dormant. Carefully dig out the plant and divide the rhizomes into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a healthy set of roots and shoots. Replant the sections in a suitable location and water well.
Propagation through Stolon Cuttings
Stolon cuttings are a quick and easy way to propagate Paspalum repens. Take cuttings of the stolons in spring and plant them in a seedling tray filled with good quality soil. Keep the soil moist and well-drained, and keep the seedling tray in a place with plenty of light. Once the cuttings have developed roots, transplant them into a suitable location.
Disease Management
Paspalum repens is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause wilt, root rot, leaf spots, and blights. Fungal diseases such as dollar spot, brown patch, and Pythium blight can be effectively managed through proper cultural practices such as avoiding overwatering, improving soil drainage, and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can be applied as a preventive measure against diseases during the growing season.
Bacterial diseases such as bacterial leaf streak and bacterial wilt can be managed by using disease-free planting materials, proper sanitation practices, and avoiding overhead irrigation. Copper-based fungicides are also effective in managing bacterial diseases.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack and damage Paspalum repens, including mole crickets, armyworms, caterpillars, and chinch bugs. Regular inspection of the plants can help detect pests early to prevent significant damage. Cultural practices such as maintaining proper soil moisture and avoiding overfertilization can help reduce pest pressure.
Chemical control measures can also be applied to manage pests. Insecticides such as pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, and carbamates can be used to manage pest infestations. However, care must be taken when using chemical control measures to prevent harming beneficial insects and pollinators in the environment.
Integrated pest management strategies that incorporate cultural, biological, and chemical measures can be effective in managing pests and diseases in Paspalum repens.
