Origin
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones belongs to the family Poaceae and is native to the southwestern part of the United States, including Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. It is also found in northern Mexico.
Common Names
The common names for Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones include Pine Mountains Needlegrass, Pine needlegrass, and Stipa.
Uses
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is used as a forage plant for livestock and wildlife. It provides food and habitat for many herbivorous mammals like deer, elk, and pronghorn. Pine Mountains needlegrass is essential for soil stability and erosion control, making it useful in reclamation and restoration projects in arid areas.
General Appearance
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is a perennial grass that grows up to 1.5 feet tall. It has narrow leaves that are about 20 cm long. The leaves emerge from the base of the plant and form a clump. The inflorescence of Pine needlegrass is a panicle with thin branches that are up to 10 cm long. The branches bear the spikelets, which are about 1 cm long and have green to purplish flowers. The flowers bloom from May to August, and the seeds develop in August to September.
Light Requirements
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones, commonly known as pine needle oatgrass, grows best in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In partial shade, the plant may experience stunted growth and reduced seed production. Therefore, it is best to choose a location with plenty of access to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is a cool-season grass that thrives in areas with cold winters and moderate summers. The optimal temperature for growth is between 32°F to 77°F, and the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -22°F. In regions with hot summers, the plant may become dormant and resume growth in the cooler months of the year.
Soil Requirements
Pine needle oatgrass grows best in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant is tolerant of moderately acidic soil but will not grow well in highly alkaline conditions. It also requires soil rich in organic matter and nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, for optimal growth. Therefore, it is recommended to amend the soil with compost or other organic materials before planting.
Cultivation Methods
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones, commonly known as pine needle grass, is a grass species that is native to the western areas of North America. It is a cool season grass that prefers nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The grass requires full sun exposure to grow effectively and can tolerate mild shade when grown under trees.
The best time to plant Stipa pinetorum is during the fall or early spring when the soil is moist. Plant the grass seeds at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and space them around 12 inches apart. Water the seeds regularly, and within 10 to 14 days, they should start to germinate.
Watering Needs
Stipa pinetorum requires regular watering, particularly during its establishment phase. The grass needs to be watered enough to keep the soil moist but not overly saturated. Once established, the grass can withstand periods of drought, but you should water it regularly to ensure that the grass stays healthy.
Fertilization
If your soil is low in nutrients, you can fertilize the Stipa pinetorum using a slow-release fertilizer suitable for grass. Nitrogen is the most crucial nutrient for grass, so look for fertilizers with higher nitrogen content. Apply the fertilizer during the early spring or fall, and water after application to assist in the absorption of the fertilizer by the grass.
Pruning
Stipa pinetorum requires little maintenance when it comes to pruning. The grass may be mowed to a height of 3 to 4 inches during the early spring, before the beginning of the growing season, to remove old growth and promote new growth. After mowing, water the grass lightly to encourage new growth. Remember not to trim off more than one-third of the grass blade at any given time.
Propagation of Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones, commonly known as pine needle feathergrass, is a native perennial grass species found in the western United States. The plant usually grows in arid to semi-arid ecosystems, including sagebrush plains, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and ponderosa pine forests.
Propagation Methods
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones can be propagated by both seed and vegetative means.
Propagation by Seed
The most common propagation method for Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is through seed. The seeds of the plant are small and can be planted directly into the soil. The best time to plant the seeds is in the fall, preferably before the first frost. Before planting, the soil must be well-drained and moist. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them lightly into the soil. Water the soil regularly until germination occurs. The plant usually takes about two years to fully establish.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Propagation of Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones by vegetative means is possible but is not commonly done. The plant can be propagated by division or by stem cuttings, but this method is generally more challenging and requires more skill. The best time to take stem cuttings is in the early summer, and they should be planted in well-drained, moist soil. Division should be done in the spring when the plant is just beginning to grow, and the soil should be prepared by tilling and adding organic matter. The divided plants should be replanted immediately and watered regularly.
In conclusion, Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones can be propagated both by seed and vegetative means, but seed propagation is the more common and easier method.
Disease Management for Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones
Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is relatively resistant to most diseases, but there are a few that could affect the plant.
One of these diseases is rust, which can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves and stems. To manage rust, remove and destroy all affected plant parts, including fallen leaves and stems. A preventative measure is to avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant.
Another disease that could affect Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is root rot. This occurs when the soil remains waterlogged for extended periods, leading to the decay of the plant's roots. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil.
Pest Management for Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones
There are a few pests that might affect Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones.
One of the most common pests is aphids, which are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap. To manage aphids, you can use an insecticidal soap or make your own by mixing water and dish soap. Regularly spraying the plant with a strong stream of water can also help to dislodge them.
Another pest that could affect Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is spider mites, which are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water regularly to prevent them from infesting the plant. You could also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Cutworms are another pest that could affect Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones. These are caterpillars that feed on the plant's stem at ground level and can cut the plant down. To manage cutworms, create a physical barrier around the plant stems, such as putting a collar around them to prevent them from reaching the plant.
Overall, ensuring that Stipa pinetorum M.E. Jones is growing in well-draining soil, not overwatering the plant, and taking preventative measures to avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant can prevent most diseases and pests from affecting the plant.
