Origin
Phragmites communis Trin., also known as common reed, originated from Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has now been widely naturalized and found in wetlands and marshes around the world.
Common Names
Common reed is also known by various common names such as giant reed, carrizo, cana, kusa, and reedmace.
Uses
Common reed has a wide range of uses. It is commonly used for thatching roofs, making baskets, mats, and paper. The plant's stem is also used to make musical instruments, arrows, and fishing rods.
In modern times, common reed is also extensively used in wastewater treatment. The plant's massive root system helps remove excess nutrients and pollutants from water and improve the quality of the water.
Common reed is also used in ornamental horticulture as it can add texture and height to a garden or landscape. They are used in creating natural screens, borders, and barriers.
General Appearance
The common reed is a perennial grass that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 1.5 meters long. Its stem is stiff, hollow, and can grow up to 2 cm in diameter. The stems can be light green, reddish-brown, or purple-brown in color and are covered with a waxy coating that repels water. The flowers appear in the summer and are clustered at the top of the stem in a dense, cylindrical structure.
Growth Conditions for Phragmites communis Trin.
Phragmites communis Trin., commonly known as common reed, is a perennial grass species that can grow up to 5 meters tall. It is distributed worldwide and can thrive in various wetland environments such as marshes, swamps, and riverbanks.
Light Requirements
Common reed can tolerate a wide range of light intensities, from full sun to partial shade. However, it thrives under full sunlight, which promotes its growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Common reed can adapt to different temperature conditions and survive extreme temperatures. It can grow in regions with mean annual temperatures ranging from 5 to 30°C.
However, for optimal growth, it requires warm temperatures, with the optimum growth temperature range being 22-30°C.
Soil Requirements
Common reed grows best in wetlands with nutrient-rich soils. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay soils.
It thrives in wet soils with a pH range of 6.5-8.5. The species is adapted to waterlogged conditions and can survive in water up to 1 meter deep.
Moreover, common reed prefers well-drained soils that retain water, such as loamy soils. The plant is also capable of tolerating salinity and can thrive in brackish water.
Cultivation of Phragmites Communis Trin.
Phragmites Communis Trin. is commonly known as Common Reed and is a grass that grows in wetlands worldwide. It is an easy plant to grow and requires minimal care, making it ideal for beginners. The following are cultivation guidelines for Phragmites Communis Trin.
Watering Needs
The Common Reed is a very adaptable plant and can tolerate a range of water conditions. Phragmites Communis Trin. requires moist soil at all times. While the plant grows naturally in wetlands, it should not be oversaturated or submerged in water. Providing regular light watering can sustain optimal growth.
Fertilization
Phragmites Communis Trin. requires little to no fertilization as they are a typical plant in wetlands where the soil is quite fertile. Applying compost or a low-nitrogen fertilizer is beneficial in the early stages of growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not a necessary task for Phragmites Communis Trin., but it can be useful to remove dead stems or if the plant overgrows. Ensure that you remove only the dead parts to avoid cutting away healthy stems accidentally.
Propagation of Phragmites communis Trin.
Phragmites communis Trin. is predominantly propagated by vegetative means as the seeds tend to have low germination rates. The plant can be propagated using the following methods:
Division
The most common method of propagation of Phragmites communis Trin. is through division. This method involves separating a healthy parent plant into several smaller ones, each with adequate roots and shoots. The separation can be done in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
First, the parent plant is dug out of the ground. The roots are then gently separated, taking care not to damage them. Each smaller plant should have a minimum of one vigorous shoot and roots. The plants can then be replanted in their new location to grow into new individuals.
Root cuttings
Root cuttings are another possible method of propagation for Phragmites communis Trin. This method involves cutting the roots of a parent plant into small pieces, each approximately 2-3 inches in length. These pieces are then planted in a suitable substrate to grow into new individuals.
The best time to take root cuttings is in winter when the plant is dormant. The roots are removed from the ground, rinsed in water, and the pieces are separated. They are then planted in shallow furrows with adequate water and nutrients.
Rhizome cuttings
Phragmites communis Trin. can also be propagated through rhizome cuttings. This method involves cutting out a portion of the rhizome of the parent plant. The portion should contain both roots and shoots.
The cuttings are then transplanted into a suitable location with adequate moisture and temperature conditions. The best time for taking rhizome cuttings is in the early spring when the plant is actively growing.
Overall, there are various methods to propagate Phragmites communis Trin. The method chosen depends on individual preference and circumstances such as the number of plants required and environmental conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Phragmites Communis Trin.
Phragmites communis Trin. or common reed is known for its resilience and adaptability, but it is still susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. The following are some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and suggested ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Crown Rot: Crown rot is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the roots and base of the plant. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To manage this disease, it is crucial to prevent soil saturation and improve drainage. Avoid planting in areas prone to standing water. If the soil is infested, fumigation could be an option. In advanced cases, removing the plant and starting over with healthy Phragmites is recommended.
Leaf Spots: Fungal infections can cause leaf spots on Phragmites. These are characterized by small, brown lesions that spread across the leaf surface. The best management for leaf spots is to maintain good air circulation and avoid overcrowding. Remove and dispose of infected leaves to prevent the spread of infection. Fungicides could also be applied to provide protection against the disease.
Common Pests
Phragmites Aphid: This pest is one of the most damaging of all aphids. They cause feeding damage that results in leaf curling, stunted growth, and yellowing. The use of natural predators like ladybugs or parasitic wasps would effectively control the insect. Also, a strong blast of water can dislodge the aphids. Use horticultural oil sprays, insecticidal soap, or neem oil to eliminate any remaining aphids.
Phragmites Scale: Phragmites scales resemble small, yellowish-brown bumps on the stem. They feed by sucking sap from the plant and depleting the nutrients. In severe cases, they can cause the plant to die. The best management practice is to use a systemic insecticide. Neem oil or horticultural oil sprays could also be used to smother the scales.
With proper management, Phragmites communis Trin. can be prevented from developing severe diseases and pest infestations. It is essential to monitor the plant regularly and take immediate action to prevent an outbreak.
