Overview
Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. is a species of perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as Lemmon's needlegrass and is native to western North America.
Appearance
The Lemmon's needlegrass plant reaches a height of up to 1 meter and has long narrow leaves that are bluish-green in color. The flowering stems are slim and wiry and produce elongated spikelets that are up to 30 cm long. The seeds of the plant are typically small and can be dispersed by wind or animals.
Uses
Lemmon's needlegrass is a valuable species of grass for the ecosystem, as it provides cover for small mammals and birds and is a food source for a variety of herbivorous animals. It is also utilized to control soil erosion on steep slopes. Additionally, the plant is used by Native American tribes to make baskets and other woven items.
Cultivation
Lemmon's needlegrass can be grown in a variety of soils and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is typically propagated through seeds, which can be collected in late summer and early fall. It is important to note that Lemmon's needlegrass is protected under the Endangered Species Act in some regions and should not be cultivated without proper permits.
hereGrowth Conditions for Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn.
Light: This plant species grows in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, it can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot, dry climates.
Temperature: Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. is a cold-hardy plant that can withstand freezing temperatures. The species grows best in areas where temperatures range from 20°F to 77°F (-6°C to 25°C). It can tolerate high temperatures up to 100°F (38°C) if the soil is kept moist.
Soil: This species grows in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be sandy or gravelly to ensure good drainage. It is important to avoid heavy clay soils as this species does not thrive in areas with poorly drained soils. Adding compost to the soil can improve its fertility.
Water: Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. is a drought-tolerant species that can survive with low amounts of water. Mature plants only require supplemental watering during periods of extended drought. Young plants may require more frequent watering until established.
Fertilizer: This plant species does not require regular fertilization. However, it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Avoid over-fertilization as it can promote excessive growth and reduce the plant's ability to tolerate drought conditions.
Propagation: This species can be propagated by seed. The seeds should be collected in the fall and sown in the spring. They should be sown shallowly in well-prepared soil and kept moist until germination.
Cultivation Methods
Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. is a native grass of the western United States and is commonly known as Jones' stipa or Lemmon's needlegrass. It is a perennial bunchgrass that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. This plant requires well-draining soils, full sun to light shade, and low to moderate water.
The ideal time to plant Stipa lemmonii is in the fall or early spring. You can either plant seeds or transplants in the desired location. If growing from seeds, it is recommended to sow them 1/8 inch deep into the soil. Make sure the soil remains moist until germination occurs. If growing from transplants, space them at least 2-3 feet apart to allow for proper growth.
Watering Needs
Stipa lemmonii requires low to moderate water. It is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. The ideal time to water this plant is in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler.
Once established, Stipa lemmonii is relatively drought-tolerant. However, during prolonged dry periods, it is recommended to provide supplemental watering to ensure optimum growth.
Fertilization
Stipa lemmonii does not require heavy fertilization. In fact, it is recommended to avoid fertilizing this plant, as it can lead to excessive growth and make the plant more vulnerable to disease.
However, if you feel that your soil is lacking in nutrients, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning
Stipa lemmonii does not require pruning as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, to maintain a neat appearance, you can trim back the dead or damaged foliage in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
It is important not to cut back too much of the plant, as this can damage the root system and inhibit future growth.
Propagation of Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn.
Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn., commonly known as Jones' needlegrass, can be propagated through two main methods - seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most widely used method for propagating Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. Seeds are used to produce plants that are genetically similar to the parent plant. The ideal time to collect the seeds is when the seedheads turn brown. The seeds can be extracted from the seedheads by hand or by threshing. Once extracted, they can be stored in a cool and dry place until planting time.
Seeds of Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. require stratification for successful germination. This involves exposing the seeds to a period of cold, damp conditions, which mimic winter dormancy in nature. One method is to plant the seeds in a pot or container and store them in a refrigerator for a period of 3-4 weeks. The seeds can then be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination. Germination should occur within 2-4 weeks.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method used to propagate Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. This method involves the use of plant parts such as stem cuttings or root divisions to produce new plants.
Stem cuttings can be taken from the parent plant during the growing season. Cuttings should be made from healthy, disease-free plants that are actively growing. The cuttings should be 6-8 inches long and taken from the current year's growth. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. They should be kept moist and warm until roots develop.
Root divisions can also be used to propagate Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. This method involves dividing the parent plant's root system into smaller sections and planting them in a suitable location. Care should be taken not to damage the roots during the division process. The new plants should be watered regularly until established.
Disease Management
Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. is generally healthy and resistant to most disease-causing agents. However, some diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Rust: Rust is caused by a fungus that appears as orange to reddish-brown pustules on the leaves and stems. It can be controlled by removing infected plant parts and application of a fungicide.
- Fusarium wilt: Fusarium wilt is caused by a soil-borne fungus that causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. It can be managed by avoiding excessive watering, improving soil drainage and using soil fungicides.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungal or bacterial pathogen. Symptoms include circular or irregularly shaped brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removal of infected plant parts, avoiding overhead watering, and the use of a fungicide.
Pest Management
Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn. is generally pest-resistant, but some pests that may affect it are:
- Aphids: Aphids can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They can be managed by manually removing them or by spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. It can be managed by improving humidity levels, removing infected plant parts, and using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers can cause serious damage to the plant, including the complete defoliation of the plant. They can be managed by using insecticides, physical barriers like netting, or by introducing natural predators like birds or praying mantises.
Regular monitoring of the plant and prompt action when pests or diseases are observed is key to ensuring the health and survival of Stipa lemmonii (Vasey) Scribn. var. jonesii Scribn.
