Paspalum Setaceum Michx. Var. Stramineum (nash) D. Banks - >>paspalum Setaceum

Origin and Common Names

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks is a type of grass plant that belongs to the Poaceae family and is native to the United States, particularly in states like Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi. This plant has several common names, including thin paspalum, setaria paspalum, coastal thin paspalum, and inland thin paspalum.

Uses

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum has several uses in various industries. In the agricultural sector, this plant is used as forage or feed for livestock. It is also used in sod production because of its rapid establishment and soft texture. Additionally, this grass is known to help stabilize coastal dunes and prevent erosion.

General Appearance

The Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum plant typically grows from 60 to 120 cm in height. It has a flattened stem that is creeping and ascending, with its base being thick, and its leaves are hairless, narrow, and taper to a point. Its flowers are borne in short panicles and have spikelets with hairy lemma and palea. This grass plant has a bright green color and spreads quickly, making it an excellent ground cover.

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Light Requirements

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks requires a good amount of sunlight exposure to grow properly. It is best to plant this type of grass in an area where it can receive full sun exposure since it is a warm-season grass, and that also means it will not receive its optimal growth conditions if the area is shaded too much.

Temperature Requirements

The preferred temperature for Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks to grow and thrive in ranges from 70-90 °F. Despite this, it can also tolerate warmer temperatures above this range but not for prolonged periods. This type of grass would become dormant or go into shock when exposed to cold weather or a temperature below freezing point (32 °F).

Soil Requirements

The soil that Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks grow best in would have good drainage capacity, meaning that it should not be too compact or hold too much water. The preferred pH range of the soil should be around 6.0-7.0. This kind of grass is not very selective when it comes to the type of soil it grows in, but it would grow better in sandy loam soil that is well-drained.

Cultivation Methods

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks can be grown in both full sun and partial shade. It is suitable for cultivation in warm and humid regions. The plant prefers well-draining soils that are neutral to slightly acidic. It can be propagated by both seed and vegetative means. When planting from seeds, it is recommended to soak them overnight to increase germination rates. Seedlings should be transplanted once they reach a height of 3-4 inches.

Watering Needs

Proper hydration is essential for the growth and survival of Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the first few months after planting. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to waterlogged soil, which can stunt growth and cause root rot. It is recommended to water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.

Fertilization

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks requires regular fertilization to maintain its health and vigor. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every six to eight weeks. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can be added to the soil to improve soil quality and nutrient levels. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced seed production.

Pruning

Pruning is not necessary for Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks, as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, if the plant becomes overgrown or unsightly, it can be trimmed back using shears or a lawnmower set at a higher height. Trimmed foliage can be left on the soil surface to decompose and provide nutrients to the plant. It is important to avoid pruning when the plant is producing seed as this can reduce seed production.

Propagation of Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks, commonly known as Thin Paspalum, is a warm-season perennial grass that is well adapted to coastal environments. It is typically propagated through seeds and vegetative methods.

Seed Propagation

Thin Paspalum produces both viable and non-viable seeds. The collected seeds must be properly processed, including air-drying, cleaning, and stratification, to enhance seed viability and germination. Pre-treated seeds can be sowed in fall or early spring under moist soil conditions. Germination usually takes place within 7-14 days. The seedlings should be transplanted to their final location at the 4-6 leaf stage.

Vegatative Propagation

Vegetative propagation of Thin Paspalum can be achieved through plugs, sprigs, or stolons. Plugs are small plantlets that are propagated from vegetative tissue. Sprigs are stems that are harvested, cut into shorter pieces, and then planted horizontally underground. Stolons are horizontal runners that emerge from the parent plant and root at nodes. Stolon propagation is best in late spring or early summer. Once established, vegetative propagated plants can spread and cover large areas quickly.

Regardless of the propagation method, proper care and management are crucial for the growth and development of Thin Paspalum plantlets. Adequate exposure to sunlight, nutrition, and moisture are vital for the establishment of robust root systems and healthy growth.

Disease Management

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks is susceptible to several diseases, including:

• Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow-orange pustules on the leaves, stems, and seedheads. Rust can be prevented by avoiding overhead irrigation and ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Infected areas should be pruned and destroyed, and fungicides may be necessary to control severe outbreaks.
• Leaf Spot: Several fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot on paspalum. Symptoms include small, dark spots on the leaves, which may coalesce and cause yellowing and leaf death. Leaf spot can be prevented by proper watering and fertilization, as well as removing infected plant material. Fungicides may be necessary to control severe cases.
• Pythium Blight: This fungal disease causes small, water-soaked spots on the leaves and stems, which can quickly spread and kill the plant. Pythium blight can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good drainage. Fungicides may be necessary to control severe outbreaks.

Pest Management

Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. stramineum (Nash) D. Banks is also vulnerable to several pests, including:

• Armyworms: These caterpillars feed on the leaves and stems of the plant and can quickly defoliate it. Armyworms can be controlled with insecticides, but natural predators such as birds and wasps can also help keep their populations in check.
• White Grubs: These beetle larvae feed on the roots of the plant and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. White grubs can be controlled with insecticides, but preventative measures such as planting resistant varieties and ensuring good soil health can also be effective.
• Mites: Several species of mites can infest paspalum, causing stunted growth and discoloration of the leaves. Mites can be controlled with miticides, but predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help keep their populations in check.