Origin
Sorghastrum parviflorum auct. non (Desv.) A.S. Hitchc. & Chase, commonly known as little bluestem, is a native grass species that can be found throughout North America, from Alberta in Canada down to northern Mexico.
Common Names
In addition to "little bluestem," this plant is also commonly known as beard grass, prairie grass, broom sedge, and turkey foot.
Uses
Sorghastrum parviflorum is an important plant for both livestock and wildlife. Its long, slender leaves make it a valuable forage grass for cattle, horses, and other grazers. The grass also offers habitat and food for a variety of wildlife species, including deer, prairie chickens, and upland game birds. In addition, it is sometimes used as an ornamental grass in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and drought tolerance.
General Appearance
Little bluestem typically grows to be between 2 and 4 feet tall, with a clumping growth habit. Its leaves are long and narrow, ranging from blue-green to gray-green in color. In the fall, the leaves turn a striking reddish-brown hue. The plant's characteristic seed heads are cone-shaped and sit atop thin stems that rise above the foliage. The seed heads turn a light tan color in the fall and provide a valuable food source for many birds.
hereLight Conditions
Sorghastrum parviflorum grows well in areas with full sunlight exposure. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It is best to avoid planting it in areas with partial shade as it may not grow as vigorously as it would in full sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Sorghastrum parviflorum can tolerate different temperature extremes. It grows well in areas with a temperature range of 20 to 30°C during the growing season. It can also tolerate moderate frost during the dormant season. The seeds of Sorghastrum parviflorum require warm temperatures between 20 and 30°C for optimal germination.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Sorghastrum parviflorum are not very strict. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but well-drained, fertile soils are preferred. It can survive in soils with varying pH from acidic to alkaline. However, the ideal soil pH is between 5.5 and 7. It is best to avoid planting Sorghastrum parviflorum in areas with saturated soils, as it is not tolerant of waterlogging.
Cultivation Methods
Sorghastrum parviflorum is a warm-season grass that requires full sun to grow. The plant thrives in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. This grass can be propagated through rhizomes or by seeds. Planting should be done in early spring or late fall.
Watering Needs
Sorghastrum parviflorum requires regular watering, particularly when it is establishing itself in a new location. The plant should be watered deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and frequently. Once the plant is established, it will be drought-resistant and does not require frequent watering.
Fertilization
Sorghastrum parviflorum requires fertilization to thrive. Fertilizer should be applied in early spring before the growing season begins. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K) is recommended.
Pruning
Sorghastrum parviflorum does not require pruning, as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, if the plant becomes too large and needs to be trimmed, it should be done in early spring before active growth begins. Trim the plant down to a few inches above the ground. This grass will grow quickly and vigorously during the growing season, so it is best to keep an eye on it to prevent overgrowth.
Propagation of Sorghastrum parviflorum
Sorghastrum parviflorum, commonly known as small-flowered sugarcane, is a warm-season, perennial bunchgrass that belongs to the grass family Poaceae. This plant is native to North America, where it grows in prairies, savannas, and other grasslands.
Propagation of Sorghastrum parviflorum can be achieved through the following methods:
Seeds
The most common method of propagating Sorghastrum parviflorum is through seeds. The seeds of this plant can be obtained from mature seed heads that have turned brown and are dry. To enhance germination rates, the seeds can be scarified or stratified before planting. Scarification involves scratching the seed coat with sandpaper or a knife to break the dormancy of the seed. Stratification involves keeping the seeds moist and cold for a period of time before planting, mimicking the natural conditions that the seeds would experience during winter. Once scarified or stratified, the seeds can be planted directly into the soil or started indoors before transplanting.
Division
Another way to propagate Sorghastrum parviflorum is by dividing established clumps. This method involves digging up the clump and separating it into smaller sections, each containing a portion of the roots and shoots. These sections can be replanted into the ground or grown in pots until they have developed a strong root system.
Cuttings
While not as common, Sorghastrum parviflorum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant, typically in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should include at least one node. After removing any lower leaves, the cuttings can be planted upright in a container filled with potting soil. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into the ground.
Disease Management
Sorghastrum parviflorum can be susceptible to various diseases, making it important to take preemptive measures to prevent their occurrence. One of the most common diseases that affect the plant is rust. Rust is usually identified by small, yellow or orange spots on leaves that gradually spread, causing the plant to wither and die. To manage rust, farmers can spray affected plants with fungicides or remove the infected part of the plant.
Anthracnose is another disease that affects Sorghastrum parviflorum. It is a fungal disease that primarily affects seeds, causing them to rot and preventing germination. To prevent anthracnose, farmers should make sure that the seeds they plant are healthy and free from the disease.
Fusarium root rot is also a common disease that affects the plant. This disease is characterized by yellowing of the leaves, stunting growth and wilting. To manage Fusarium root rot, farmers should ensure that their soil is well-drained, and they should avoid over-irrigation. Farmers can also use fungicides to control the disease.
Pest Management
The most common pests that affect Sorghastrum parviflorum are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that usually feed on the underside of leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off the plant.
To manage aphids, farmers can use insecticides, apply soap or oil sprays or introduce ladybugs that feed on the pests. For spider mites, farmers can use insecticides, apply soap or oil sprays or increase the humidity around the plant.
Another pest that affects Sorghastrum parviflorum is the fall armyworm. Fall armyworms are caterpillars that feed on the leaves of the plant. To manage them, farmers should ensure that they remove any infected plant debris and use insecticides when necessary.
Although Sorghastrum parviflorum can be susceptible to various diseases and pests, good management practices can help control their impact and ensure the plant's growth and productivity.
