Origin:
Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin, commonly known as Jordal's bluegrass, is a subspecies of Poa abbreviata found in various parts of the world such as Antarctica, Greenland, Canada, and Alaska.
Common Names:
Jordal's bluegrass is also known by several other names including Arctic bluegrass, bluegrass, and creeping Alpine bluegrass.
Uses:
Jordal's bluegrass is a hardy plant that can grow in areas with extremely harsh conditions. This makes it an important plant for stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, and providing habitat for small animals. In addition, it is used for turfgrass and pasture seeds, and has potential for use in phytoremediation.
General Appearance:
Jordal's bluegrass has a creeping growth habit, growing close to the ground and rooting at nodes along its stems. The plant produces narrow, flat leaves that are bluish-green in color, and can grow up to 15 cm long. Its flowers are arranged in open panicles, with each spikelet containing up to four flowers. The plant typically grows between 5-15 cm in height and forms dense mats in its natural habitat.
Overall, Jordal's bluegrass is a valuable plant for its adaptability and combination of ecological and practical uses.hereLight Requirements
Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade can lead to weaker growth and pale leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures but prefers cooler temperatures. A temperature range of 10-20°C is optimal for growth. It is not suitable for extremely hot temperatures and can only tolerate moderate frost.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are moist. A pH range of 5.0-6.5 is ideal. Soil that is too dry can inhibit growth, and waterlogged soil can cause root rot. The plant can grow in different types of soil, including sandy loam, loam, and clay soils, but soil rich in organic matter is preferred.
Cultivation and care of Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin
If you want to cultivate Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin, you should know that this plant is native to the Arctic regions of North America. It is a hardy plant and can survive in cold climates. However, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging.
Soil requirements
The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Additionally, it should be rich in organic matter to ensure that the plants receive sufficient nutrients. The soil should be well-draining, and you should avoid waterlogging of the plant's roots.
Watering requirements
The watering needs of Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin vary depending on the climate. In the growing season, the plant requires regular watering to promote healthy growth. During the winter months, the soil should be kept slightly moist. Watering should be done in the morning to avoid waterlogging and fungal infections.
Fertilization requirements
Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth. The fertilizer should be spread evenly across the soil and watered in thoroughly.
Pruning requirements
Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin does not require regular pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged foliage to promote healthy growth. When pruning, ensure that you do not cut too close to the base of the plant, as this may damage the roots.
Propagation of Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin
Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin, commonly known as the Jordan River bluegrass, is a herbaceous plant that grows in rocky areas and gravelly beaches. This plant is native to western North America and is often used in landscaping and erosion control. Propagation of Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii can be achieved through two main methods - seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii via seeds is the most common method used in nurseries. This method involves the collection of mature seeds from the parent plant during the flowering period. The collected seeds are then air-dried at room temperature for a few days. Once dry, they are transported to a sterile environment where they are cleaned and sterilized to remove pathogens.
The treated seeds are then sown in seed trays or pots, filled with sterile soil mix. The seeds are then covered with a light layer of soil and kept moist. Germination of the seeds occurs between 14 to 30 days, depending on the temperature and moisture levels in the growing environment.
Once the seedlings have established themselves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the ground at a spacing of 8-10 inches apart. The seedlings should be watered regularly, but not excessively, to avoid damping off.
Vegetative Propagation
Propagation of Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii via vegetative means involves the use of vegetative parts of the plant, such as stolons or rhizomes. This method is often used by gardeners to propagate a plant that is genetically identical to the parent plant.
The process of vegetative propagation involves the use of mature, healthy stems, which are cut into small segments of approximately 3-5 inches long. The segments are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted into sterile soil mix. Regular watering and misting of the soil are required to maintain moisture levels.
The cuttings should root within 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots or into the ground. With proper care, the new plants should establish themselves and grow into healthy plants.
Disease Management
Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin is prone to various diseases that affect its growth and development. These include:
- Crown rust: This fungal disease appears as small, orange pustules on infected leaves. Rust can cause significant damage to plant growth and should be treated immediately to prevent the spread of infection.
- Brown patch: This fungal disease is characterized by brown, circular patches on the leaves. It is most commonly seen during hot and humid weather conditions.
- Snow mold: This disease typically appears after the snow melts and can be identified by white, web-like growth on the grass. It can cause significant damage to the plant if left untreated.
- Fusarium patch: This disease appears as small, circular spots on the leaves that may eventually merge together. It is caused by a fungus and can survive the winter on plant debris.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper cultural practices such as regular watering, fertilization, and mowing. Fungicides can also be used to prevent and control fungal infections.
Pest Management
Poa abbreviata R. Br. var. jordalii (Porsild) Boivin may also be affected by various pests that can damage the plant and its growth. Some common pests that affect this plant include:
- Cutworms: These pests are typically found in the soil and can cause significant damage to the plant by chewing on the leaves and stems.
- Chinch bugs: These pests feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and eventually death of the grass.
- Billbugs: These pests attack the plant's roots and can lead to wilted and yellowed leaves.
- Sod webworms: These pests feed on the plant's leaves and can cause significant damage by creating brown patches on the grass.
To manage these pests, it is important to maintain proper cultural practices such as regular watering, fertilization, and mowing. Insecticides can also be used to control and prevent insect infestations.
