Overview of Sorghastrum micratherum (Stapf) Pilg.
Sorghastrum micratherum (Stapf) Pilg. is a species of grass in the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as Little Bluestem, a name it shares with several other species in the Sorghastrum genus. This plant is native to the central and southeastern regions of the United States.
Appearance of Sorghastrum micratherum
Sorghastrum micratherum is a perennial grass that can grow between 1 to 3 feet tall. It has blue-green or gray-green blades that are narrow and can reach up to 3/8 inch in width. The blades are hairy at the base, but smooth towards the tip. The plant produces leafy stems with flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall. The flowers are small and green, forming a compact spike-like cluster.
Uses of Sorghastrum micratherum
Sorghastrum micratherum has a wide range of uses, ranging from ornamental to medicinal. In the landscape, Little Bluestem is often planted for its striking color and texture. It is used in prairie restorations, meadows, and as a border plant in gardens. The plant is also valuable as a forage plant for grazing livestock.
In traditional medicine, Sorghastrum micratherum has been used to treat various ailments. The plant has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to relieve pain and inflammation. It has also been used to treat respiratory problems, such as coughs and bronchitis. However, further research is needed to confirm the medicinal properties of Little Bluestem.
Light Requirements
Sorghastrum micratherum requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. The plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It cannot survive or grow properly in shaded areas or low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Sorghastrum micratherum can grow in climates with temperatures that range from 15°C to 38°C. However, the plant prefers warm-to-hot temperatures between 25°C and 32°C. Temperatures lower than 15°C can cause the plant's leaves to yellow.
Soil Requirements
Sorghastrum micratherum prefers well-draining, sandy soils, but it can grow in soils with different textures, including clayey soils, as long as the soil is well-drained. The pH of the soil should range from neutral to slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate moderate salt and alkaline conditions. However, the soil should be nutrient-rich, and the plant can benefit from compost application before planting.
Cultivation and Care for Sorghastrum micratherum
Sorghastrum micratherum, also known as small-flowered Sorghastrum or pilosa prairiegrass, is a warm-season grass that is native to the central part of North America. It is a great addition to any garden or landscape due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Cultivation
Sorghastrum micratherum grows well in full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, as long as it is not overly wet. Ideally, the soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
The best time to plant Sorghastrum micratherum is in the early spring after the last frost. The seeds should be sown shallowly, no more than 1/8 inch deep, and then lightly covered with soil. The seeds will typically germinate within two to three weeks.
Watering
Sorghastrum micratherum is drought-tolerant, but it still requires regular watering, especially during its first growing season. Once the plant is established, it can tolerate dry spells, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during periods of drought. Watering should be done deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization
Sorghastrum micratherum does not require much fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio can be applied in the early spring. Too much nitrogen can cause the plant to become top-heavy and flop over, so be careful not to over-fertilize.
Pruning
Sorghastrum micratherum does not require pruning, but it can benefit from occasional thinning to promote new growth. If the plant begins to look overcrowded, simply remove some of the older stems at ground level. Thinning should be done in the early spring before the new growth begins.
Propagation of Sorghastrum micratherum
Sorghastrum micratherum (Stapf) Pilg., also known as smallflower sugarcane, is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found from southern Canada to Mexico. Sorghastrum micratherum is commonly used for forage and erosion control.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Sorghastrum micratherum is by seed. The seeds are usually collected after the plant has matured and the seed heads have turned brown. The seed heads can be cut and dried in a cool, dry location. Once the seeds are completely dry, they can be stored in a cool, dry place until planting.
Before planting, the seeds should be scarified to help break down the tough outer coating, allowing water and air to enter the seed more easily. This can be done by soaking the seeds in hot water for 24 hours or by mechanically scarifying the seeds with sandpaper. After scarification, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seeds should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes around 7-14 days.
Vegatative Propagation
Sorghastrum micratherum can also be propagated vegetatively by dividing the plant or by taking stem cuttings. Division is typically done in the spring or fall and involves digging up the plant and dividing it into smaller sections, each with their own root system. The smaller sections can be replanted in a suitable location, ensuring that they are planted at the same depth as they were previously.
Stem cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The stem cuttings should be around 6-8 inches long and taken from the newer growth on the plant. The bottom of the stem cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil. The stem cutting should be kept moist until roots have formed, which usually takes around 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management for Sorghastrum micratherum
Sorghastrum micratherum is susceptible to a few different diseases. The most common is fungal rust, which causes yellow-orange pustules to appear on the leaves. To manage rust, it is important to remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of spores. Fungicide sprays can also be used to manage rust, although it’s important to carefully follow the instructions to avoid damaging the plant.
Another disease that can affect Sorghastrum micratherum is charcoal rot. This disease occurs when the soil is too moist and causes the plant’s roots to rot. To manage charcoal rot, it is important to water the plant properly and avoid over-watering. Fungicides may also be useful in managing this disease.
Pest Management for Sorghastrum micratherum
There are a few different pests that can affect Sorghastrum micratherum. The most common is the sugar cane aphid, which feeds on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and discoloration. To manage aphids, it can be helpful to introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings. Insecticidal soaps or oils can also be applied to the plant to manage aphids, although care should be taken to not damage the plant.
The grasshopper is another pest that can damage Sorghastrum micratherum. They eat the leaves and stems of the plant, which can cause significant damage. To manage grasshoppers, physical barriers can be put in place around the plant. Insecticidal sprays may also be effective in managing this pest.
