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Description
Elymus Virginicus, commonly known as Virginia wildrye or Virginia wild rye grass, is a cool-season perennial grass. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is native to North America. This grass grows in clumps and has a fibrous root system that can extend up to five feet deep into the soil. It is widely used for erosion control and as a forage crop for livestock.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Elymus |
Appearance
Virginia wildrye grass can grow up to three feet tall and has a dense, upright growth habit. Its leaves are long and flat, with a bluish-green color and a rough texture. The seed heads are open, airy, and have a light tan or beige color. Virginia wildrye is a cool-season grass that grows best in spring and fall, but it can also grow during the summer months with adequate water.
Care Guide
To grow Virginia wildrye grass successfully, you need to ensure it receives adequate water, fertilization, and the right soil conditions. This grass prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It also prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 3-8.
Water
Virginia wildrye grass requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season, and adjust the frequency as needed depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Fertilize Virginia wildrye grass in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Apply it at a rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet. Repeat the application in late summer or early fall to support growth during the cooler months.
Soil
This grass prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils.
Sunlight
Virginia wildrye grass prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may not grow as vigorously as it would in full sun.
Hardiness Zones
This grass can grow in hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Virginia wildrye grass is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf rust, stem rust, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides or by improving the growing conditions.
Habitat
Virginia wildrye grass is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It is commonly used for erosion control, as it has a deep root system that stabilizes soil and reduces erosion.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Virginia wildrye grass drought-tolerant?
A: Virginia wildrye grass can tolerate some drought, but it requires regular watering to grow well.
Q: Can Virginia wildrye grass be used as a forage crop for livestock?
A: Yes, Virginia wildrye grass is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock.
Q: What is the best time to plant Virginia wildrye grass?
A: Virginia wildrye grass can be planted in the spring or fall. Fall planting is preferred in areas with mild winters.
Q: How deep should I plant Virginia wildrye grass seeds?
A: Plant Virginia wildrye grass seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch in well-prepared soil.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Elymus genus include:
- Elymus canadensis (Canada wildrye)
- Elymus glaucus (blue wildrye)
- Elymus repens (quackgrass)
- Elymus trachycaulus (slender wheatgrass)
References
- “Elymus Virginicus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c290.
- “Virginia Wildrye.” USDA NRCS, plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_elvi5.pdf.
- “Elymus.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 27 Mar. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elymus.
