Overview
Poa nervosa var. wheeleri is a plant species native to North America and is a variety of the previously identified Poa nervosa (Hook.) Vasey. Known commonly as the Wheeler bluegrass, it is an herb that belongs to the Poaceae family and is primarily found in alpine and subalpine areas of the Rocky Mountains.
Appearance
The Wheeler bluegrass is a perennial grass that grows up to 20-80cm tall. It has a densely tufted growth habit, with roots extending up to 15-20cm into the soil. Its leaves are bright green in color, and grow up to 2-5mm wide, with a pointed tip. Its panicles are open and curved, with distinctive green to purple anthers.
Uses
The Wheeler bluegrass plays an important role in the ecosystem, providing ground cover for soil conservation and protection. It is also a common foraging plant for grazing animals such as deer, elk, and small mammals like rabbits. The plant has also been known to have medicinal properties, with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties found in its extract. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat inflammation and fever, as well as a general tonic for the digestive and urinary systems.
Cultivation
The Wheeler bluegrass is often found in subalpine areas of the Rocky Mountains, growing in moist meadows and along streambanks. It prefers well-drained, moist soils, with a pH range between 5.5-7.5. The plant can be propagated through seed and vegetative means, with the optimum planting period being early spring. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate extreme temperatures and is resistant to most pests and diseases.
hereLight Requirements
Poa nervosa (Hook.) Vasey var. wheeleri (Vasey) C.L. Hitchc. typically prefers to grow in areas with full sun exposure. This plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may not grow as vigorously in lower light conditions. If possible, it is best to provide this plant with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in cool and moist environments, so temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit are optimal for growth. It can tolerate higher temperatures in the summer months, but it will not grow as well when exposed to temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In areas with milder climates, it can also grow during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Poa nervosa (Hook.) Vasey var. wheeleri (Vasey) C.L. Hitchc. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in soil that has a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. This plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy soil, loam, and clay soil, as long as it has good drainage. It is important to ensure that the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged, as too much water can cause the plant to rot.
Cultivation
Poa nervosa (Hook.) Vasey var. wheeleri (Vasey) C.L. Hitchc. is generally grown in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. It is best to grow the plant in partial shade to full sun and in well-drained soil. The ideal pH range for cultivation is between 6.0 and 7.5, although it can tolerate more acidic soil.
The plant is generally propagated through seeds. Once the seeds are sown, it takes around 10 days to germinate, and they require moisture to sprout. Once established, poa nervosa can propagate itself via stolons (horizontal stems) and rhizomes (underground stems).
Watering Needs
Poa nervosa prefers moist soil, so they require regular watering. However, the plant is somewhat tolerant of drought conditions and can withstand more extended periods without water when grown in partial shade. Overwatering the plant may lead to root rot, which is detrimental to growth and could ultimately kill the plant.
Fertilization
Poa nervosa does not require a lot of fertilization to thrive. However, if you need to add fertilizer, do it in the spring or fall. Use a balanced fertilizer, and it should be applied evenly across the planting area. Avoid applying too much fertilizer, as this can burn the plant and lead to stunted growth.
Pruning
Poa nervosa requires little to no pruning. However, you may have to mow the plant down to 3 inches during the late winter as the plant can get straggly and messy with age. Cutting the plant lower than 3 inches could damage the roots and lead to stunted growth.
Removing old or dead leaves and stems from the base of the plant is also ideal to promote air circulation, which is essential for the growth of the plant. However, be careful not to remove too many leaves and stems at once, as this can damage the plant and affect its growth.
Propagation of Poa nervosa var. wheeleri
Poa nervosa var. wheeleri is a perennial grass found in wet meadows, bogs, and seeps in the western United States. It is known for its attractive blue-green foliage that remains green throughout the year. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods which are discussed below.
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Poa nervosa var. wheeleri is through seed. The seeds are small and can be sown directly into the garden or in pots. Sow the seeds in spring or fall in well-drained, moist soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water lightly. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to 2-3 weeks. Thin the seedlings once they are big enough to handle, and transplant them to their permanent location when they reach 4-6 inches in height.
Division
Division is another effective way to propagate Poa nervosa var. wheeleri. This method is usually done in spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the clump of grass, and carefully tease apart the roots, making sure that each division has several stems and a good root system. Replant the divisions in a well-drained, moist soil, and water thoroughly until established.
Transplantation
Poa nervosa var. wheeleri can be successfully transplanted, especially when young plants are involved. Transplantation is often ideal when you need to move the plant to a different location. The best time to transplant is during spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Start by digging a hole in the new location which is twice the width and depth of the root ball. Make sure the hole has well-drained, moist soil. Carefully remove the plant from its current location, shake off any excess soil, and transplant it into the new hole. Water the plant thoroughly, and keep the soil moist until established.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is not a common method for propagating Poa nervosa var. wheeleri, but it can be successful. Take cuttings of new shoots and place them in a growing medium. Water the medium to keep it moist but not waterlogged, and place it in a warm, bright location. It might take a few weeks to see any results, but with time new roots and foliage should start to develop. Once the new plant is established, transplant it to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Poa nervosa (Hook.) Vasey var. wheeleri (Vasey) C.L. Hitchc. is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, there are some diseases that can affect the plant and reduce its growth and quality. The most common diseases that affect Poa nervosa var. wheeleri are:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by several different fungi and can cause small, black, sunken spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is important to keep the plant healthy and well-watered. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage crown rot, it is important to plant in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause brown spots on the leaves and a grayish mold on the plant. To manage anthracnose, it is important to remove infected plant parts and use fungicides.
Pest Management
Like many plants, Poa nervosa var. wheeleri is also susceptible to pests that can cause damage to the plant. Some of the most common pests that affect the plant are:
- White grubs: These are the larvae of various beetle species and can feed on the roots of the plant. To manage white grubs, it is important to apply insecticides to the soil.
- Billbugs: These are weevils that can feed on the roots and stems of the plant. To manage billbugs, it is important to apply insecticides to the soil and use cultural practices such as regular mowing and fertilization.
- Armyworms: These are moth larvae and can eat the leaves of the plant. To manage armyworms, it is important to use insecticides.
To manage both diseases and pests, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and take action at the first sign of a problem. It is also important to use cultural practices such as regular watering and fertilization to keep the plant healthy and resilient to pests and diseases.
