Origin
Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey, commonly known as intermediate wheatgrass, is a perennial grass that is native to Europe and Asia but is widely cultivated in North America and Australia.
Common Names
Intermediate wheatgrass is also known by various other common names such as tall wheatgrass, thickspike wheatgrass, and pubescent wheatgrass.
Uses
Intermediate wheatgrass has been long recognized for its valuable forage and erosion control qualities due to its deep root system. As a forage crop, it is highly palatable and nutritious for livestock and wildlife. It is also used in land reclamation projects to prevent soil erosion and provide habitat for various wildlife species.
Recent research has shown that intermediate wheatgrass may have potential as a human food crop due to its high antioxidant content and gluten-free properties. It can be used as a flour substitute and is also suitable for making bread, pasta, and other food products.
General Appearance
Intermediate wheatgrass is a tall, bunchgrass that can grow up to 4 feet in height. It has a dense root system that can reach up to 6 feet deep in the soil. The leaves are long and flat, with a bluish-green color and rough texture. The plant produces dense, cylindrical seed heads that are 4-10 inches long and light to dark brown in color. The seeds are small and light, with an average weight of 3,770 seeds per pound.
Overview of Thinopyrum intermedium ssp. barbulatum
Thinopyrum intermedium ssp. barbulatum is a wheatgrass species native to Europe and Asia. It is commonly used for forage, erosion control, and habitat restoration.
Light Requirements
Thinopyrum intermedium ssp. barbulatum prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but does not perform well in deep shade conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Thinopyrum intermedium ssp. barbulatum grows well in both cool and warm temperatures, making it adaptable to different climates. However, it cannot withstand extreme heat or frost, and temperatures below -10°C can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Thinopyrum intermedium ssp. barbulatum is not particular about soil types, but it grows best in well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate soils that are slightly acidic or alkaline. This plant thrives in soils with good moisture retention, and it does not do well in overly dry or waterlogged soils.
Cultivation Methods
Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey can grow in a range of soil types, but prefers well-draining, loamy soil. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. This plant can be propagated through seed or division, although seed propagation can be difficult and inconsistent.
Watering Needs
The Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey plant prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to water it regularly during the growing season, and to reduce the amount of water during the winter months. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil has good drainage.
Fertilization
Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey does not need a lot of fertilizer, but will benefit from a small amount of slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. Compost can also be added to the soil for added nutrients. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause excessive growth and reduce the plant's overall health.
Pruning
Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming. If the plant becomes too large, it can be divided in the spring to maintain its size and health. Removing damaged or diseased foliage is also recommended for overall plant health.
Propagation of Thinopyrum intermedium ssp. barbulatum
Thinopyrum intermedium ssp. barbulatum, commonly known as intermediate wheatgrass, is a perennial grass that is primarily propagated through vegetative means. There are two main methods of propagation: sod division and seed germination.
Sod Division
Sod division is the most common and reliable method of propagating intermediate wheatgrass. The method involves dividing mature clumps of the grass into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of the primary shoot, together with an adequate number of roots. Division can be done using a spade or knife. It is best to do it in the early spring, before the growth season begins. The new divisions should be planted in a location with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight.
Seed Germination
Propagation through seed germination is less reliable than sod division, but it remains a viable option. The best time for seed germination is in the early spring. Seeds should be planted in a well-prepared seedbed. The bed should be kept moist during germination. Intermediate wheatgrass seed germination occurs slowly and sporadically. Seedlings should be frequently watered and weeded during the first growing season.
Disease Management for Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is generally resistant to common diseases. However, if the plant is grown in damp and humid conditions, it can be susceptible to various fungal and bacterial infections.
Leaf rust is a common disease that affects Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey. The fungus Puccinia recondita causes leaf rust by leaving yellow and orange spots on the leaves. To manage leaf rust, the affected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be used to control the infection.
Another disease that can affect Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is powdery mildew caused by the fungus Erysiphe graminis. It appears as a white or grayish powder on the leaves and stems. Powdery mildew can be controlled by removing the infected areas and improving air circulation and sunlight to the plant.
Pest Management for Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is generally resistant to pests. However, it can be affected by some common pests that attack grasses and cereals.
The wheat stem sawfly, Cephus cinctus, is a common pest that can affect Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey. The larvae of the sawfly feed on the stem of the plant, which can weaken and destroy the plant. Crop rotation and the use of insecticides can help control the sawfly population.
The armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, can also infest Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey ssp. barbulatum (Schur) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey. The larvae of the armyworm feed on the leaves of the plant, which can cause significant damage. To manage the infestation, biological control using natural predators, such as parasitoid wasps, or the application of pesticides can be considered.
