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Description
Agrostis Muscosa, commonly known as the hairy bentgrass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the United States and Canada. The plant has a fine texture, and its leaves are narrow and pointed. The hairy bentgrass grows in dense tufts, forming a mat-like appearance. It is a cool-season grass and can grow up to 10 inches in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Agrostis |
Appearance
The hairy bentgrass has narrow, pointed leaves that grow in dense tufts, forming a mat-like appearance. The plant has a fine texture and grows up to 10 inches in height. Its flowers are small, green, and inconspicuous, and they bloom from June to August. The hairy bentgrass has a light green color and can tolerate some shade.
Care Guide
The hairy bentgrass requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. Fertilization should be done in early spring and late fall, using a slow-release fertilizer. The plant requires full sun to partial shade and can tolerate cold temperatures, making it suitable for hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The hairy bentgrass is prone to diseases such as fusarium blight, dollar spot, and rust. It is also susceptible to pests such as billbugs, sod webworms, and chinch bugs. Proper maintenance, including regular mowing and watering, can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The hairy bentgrass is native to North America and can be found in the United States and Canada. It grows in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. The plant prefers cool, moist environments and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the hairy bentgrass a good lawn grass?
A: The hairy bentgrass is not commonly used as a lawn grass due to its fine texture and mat-like appearance.
Q: Can the hairy bentgrass tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the hairy bentgrass can tolerate cold temperatures and is suitable for hardiness zones 3-9.
Q: Does the hairy bentgrass require a lot of water?
A: The hairy bentgrass requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but can tolerate some drought.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize the hairy bentgrass?
A: The hairy bentgrass should be fertilized in early spring and late fall using a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Agrostis capillaris (Common Bentgrass)
- Agrostis gigantea (Black Bentgrass)
- Agrostis scabra (Rough Bentgrass)
References
- USDA Plants Database. Agrostis muscosa.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. Agrostis muscosa.
- Clemson Cooperative Extension. Hairy Bentgrass.
