Origin and Common Names
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. is a species of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is commonly known as Thin Paspalum or Striate Paspalum. This plant is native to South America, and it can be found in several countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.General Appearance
Thin Paspalum is a low-growing perennial grass that can reach up to 30 centimeters in height. Its leaves are narrow, flattened, and bright green, with a smooth texture. The plant has an erect branching stem and a fibrous root system that can grow up to 90 centimeters deep. The inflorescence is composed of several spikelets that can be up to 11 centimeters long. Each spikelet contains several flowers that bloom from November to May.Uses
Thin Paspalum is a versatile plant that has several uses. Its deep root system allows it to be highly tolerant to drought, making it an ideal grass for pastures in arid regions. It is also used to prevent soil erosion on steep slopes and to stabilize riverbanks. In addition, this grass is used in golf courses and landscaping for its fine texture and vibrant green color. Moreover, its leaves and stems are considered a good forage crop for livestock and wildlife. In conclusion, Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. is a useful grass that has adapted to various environments in South America. It has both aesthetic and practical benefits for human use while also providing a food source for animals.Light Requirements
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. typically grows in full sun to partial shade and can adapt to different levels of light intensity. However, it prefers full sunlight and may yield less biomass under shade conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species grows best in warm to hot temperatures. The optimum range for growth is between 25°C and 35°C. It can survive frost, but growth will be slowed or halted during cold seasons.
Soil Requirements
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. prefers well-drained soils with good aeration. It can grow in a variety of soil textures, from sandy to clayey soils. However, it thrives in medium to fine-textured soils with organic matter content. The pH level of the soil should be within the range of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. is a warm-season, perennial grass species that requires adequate sunlight and soil moisture to thrive. This plant prefers loamy soils with good drainage and a pH range between 5 and 7. It can be grown through seeds or vegetative propagation. The seeds should be sown in well-prepared soil during the early spring to ensure successful establishment. It can also be propagated through rhizome division in the fall.
Watering needs
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. requires regular watering to promote growth and maintain soil moisture. The ideal watering schedule for this plant is once a week, but can vary depending on soil type, weather conditions, and location. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot, while insufficient watering can cause wilting and stunted growth.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the optimal growth and development of Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. A balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous should be applied during the growing season to provide essential nutrients. The recommended application rate is based on soil conditions, plant growth stage, and other environmental factors. Excessive fertilizer application should be avoided as it can lead to leaf burn and other detrimental effects.
Pruning
Pruning helps to keep Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. in good shape and ensure healthy growth. The best time to prune this plant is during early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and branches. Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of disease or infestation can help identify the need for pruning. Shearing can also be done to control the plant's height and encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin.
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. can be propagated by various methods such as seeds, sod, and plugs.
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be collected from mature plants. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until sowing time. Sow the seeds in a seedbed or trays. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them. It is recommended to sow the seeds during the spring season. Seedlings should be ready for transplanting after 3-4 months.
Sod Propagation
Sod propagation is a quick method of establishing a P. setaceum lawn. It involves planting small sections of grass, including the roots and soil, into a prepared site. Ideally, the site should be tilled and leveled before planting. The sod should be laid closely together without any gaps. After planting, water the sod well. It is crucial to keep the sod moist until it is well established.
Plugs
Plugs are small clumps of grass that are grown in trays. Plugs are typically 2-3 inches in diameter and can be purchased from nurseries or garden centers. Plant plugs in a well-prepared site, spacing them around 12-18 inches apart. Water the plugs well after planting and keep them moist until they are well established.
Disease Management
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. is susceptible to various diseases.
Leaf Spots: The plant is susceptible to various leaf spot diseases, which cause small necrotic lesions on the leaves. The lesions might coalesce and form larger areas of infected tissue, leading to defoliation. To prevent leaf spot diseases, maintain good hygiene practices and avoid watering foliage during the evening.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease characterized by yellowing and premature defoliation of the plant. It mainly attacks plants growing in poorly drained soils or areas of high humidity. To manage rust, use resistant cultivars, maintain good drainage, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent and control the spread of the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. It thrives in poorly drained soils and overwatering. To prevent root rot, ensure good drainage, use well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering. When symptoms appear, remove and discard infected plants.
Pest Management
Paspalum setaceum Michx. var. supinum (Bosc ex Poir.) Trin. is also susceptible to various pests.
Sod Webworms: These are larvae of moths that feed on the foliage and stems of grasses. They cause irregular patches of yellow, stunted grass. To prevent sod webworms, avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization and apply insecticides when necessary.
Chinch Bugs: Chinch bugs are small insects that suck the sap from the base of the stems, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To prevent chinch bugs, maintain good cultural practices, use resistant cultivars, and apply insecticides when necessary.
Mole Crickets: Mole crickets are burrowing insects that cause damage to the roots and stems of the plant. They might also feed on the foliage, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To prevent mole crickets, use sticky traps, insecticides or make use of nematodes.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation can help in early detection and, ultimately, better management of the problem.
