Origin
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng, also known as Arctic bluegrass, is a perennial grass species native to the Arctic tundra region of North America. It can be found in Alaska, Canada, and Greenland.
Common Names
Besides Arctic bluegrass, Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata is also commonly known as tundra bluegrass, Alaska bluegrass, and northern bluegrass.
Uses
Despite its limited distribution, Arctic bluegrass is an ecologically important plant species in the Arctic tundra ecosystem. It provides food and habitat for various wildlife, including muskoxen, caribou, and ptarmigan. Arctic bluegrass is also an important forage species for livestock in areas where other forage plants are scarce. In addition to its ecological value, Arctic bluegrass has some medicinal properties. It has been used traditionally by Indigenous people to treat gastrointestinal problems, respiratory ailments, and to relieve pain.
General Appearance
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata is a low-growing grass species with a tufted growth habit. It typically grows up to 10-15 cm in height and spreads by rhizomes. Arctic bluegrass has narrow, flat leaves that are bluish-green in color and can become purplish in cold weather. The inflorescence of this species is a panicle, 3-8 cm long, and usually with a few to several branches. The flowers are arranged in spikelets, each containing several florets.
Light Requirements
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly.
Temperature Requirements
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng is a cold climate grass species and likes cool temperatures. It grows best in climates with an average temperature range of 5-17°C (41-63°F) and can withstand freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5-6.5. Sandy or loamy soils are preferred, but the grass can also grow in clay soils. It requires a moderate amount of moisture in the soil, but it should not be waterlogged for extended periods.
Cultivation of Poa Arctica R. Br. Ssp. Lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng, commonly known as Arctic Bluegrass, is a cold-tolerant grass species that is native to Arctic and alpine regions. Its cultivation requires careful attention to environmental conditions.
The grass can be grown in a variety of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay, but it prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It also requires full sun to grow properly.
Arctic Bluegrass is a cool-season grass that thrives in regions with cold temperatures and short growing seasons. It is hardy up to USDA Zone 1 and is often used for re-vegetation projects in areas that have been disturbed by mining or other human activity.
Watering Needs of Poa Arctica R. Br. Ssp. Lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng
Arctic Bluegrass requires regular watering to establish strong, healthy roots. However, it is important not to overwater the grass, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
A good rule of thumb is to water the grass deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather. The goal is to saturate the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. During cooler months, you can reduce watering to every two weeks or as needed.
Fertilization of Poa Arctica R. Br. Ssp. Lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng
Regular fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Arctic Bluegrass. The grass requires nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to thrive.
You can apply a slow-release fertilizer to the grass in the spring and fall, but be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth and weaken the grass.
Pruning of Poa Arctica R. Br. Ssp. Lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng
Pruning is not necessary for Arctic Bluegrass, as it is a low-growing grass species. However, you can mow the grass to a height of 2 to 3 inches to promote healthy growth and prevent the development of thatch.
It is important to keep your lawnmower blades sharp to prevent damage to the grass blades. You should also avoid mowing the grass when it is wet, as this can lead to clumping and other issues.
Propagation of Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata (Scribn. & Merr.) Soreng, commonly called Arctic bluegrass or Arctic poa, is a hardy perennial grass species that can be propagated through various methods. Here are some ways to propagate Poa arctica:
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Poa arctica is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds from the plant when they are ripe, which falls around late summer to autumn. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until ready for planting in the spring. Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with a seed-raising mix and place in a warm, well-lit area. Keep the soil moist and the seeds should start to germinate in about 7-10 days. When the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Poa arctica. Divide the plant in early spring when the new growth appears. Using a spade or knife, divide the clump into several pieces, ensuring that each division has some roots. Replant the divisions into individual pots or directly in the garden and keep the soil moist. New growth should appear within a few weeks.
Stolons
Poa arctica can also be propagated through stolons, which are horizontal stems that grow above ground and produce new roots and shoots. Dig up a section of the stolon and cut it into sections, making sure each section has some roots and a bud. Plant the sections into pots or directly into the garden and keep the soil evenly moist. The new plantlets should root and produce new growth within a few weeks.
Propagation of Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata is relatively easy and the plant can be propagated through various methods depending on personal preference and requirements. The plant is a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape, with its blue-green foliage and ability to tolerate cold and harsh conditions.
Disease Management
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata is a hardy plant species that is resistant to many diseases. However, several fungal and viral diseases can occur under certain circumstances such as high humidity and crowded growth conditions. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Gray Snow Mold: This fungal disease appears as white or gray patches on the plant. It can be prevented by improving air circulation and avoiding excessive fertilization or irrigation. If detected early, it can be controlled by removing the affected parts.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stem of the plant. It can be prevented by ensuring good ventilation and spacing between plants. Fungicides can be used to control the disease if it has already infected the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease appears as small brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and directing irrigation water at the soil level. Fungicides can be used to control the disease if it has already infected the plant.
Pest Management
Poa arctica R. Br. ssp. lanata is generally not affected by many pests. However, several insects can cause damage to the plant under certain circumstances. Some of the common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them include:
- Cutworms: These insects cut down the stems of the plant at soil level. It can be prevented by removing weeds and debris from around the plant. Beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and ground beetles can be introduced to the area to control cutworms.
- Aphids: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause deformation of the leaves. It can be prevented by using a strong stream of water to wash off the aphids from the plant. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control the pest.
- Spider Mites: These pests suck sap from the leaves of the plant causing them to turn yellow and brown. It can be prevented by increasing humidity around the plant. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control spider mites infestation.
