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Description
Poa Triodioides, commonly known as Sandberg bluegrass, is a type of grass that is native to the western United States. It is a cool-season grass that grows in bunches and has a deep root system, making it an ideal grass for erosion control. It is often found growing in dry, sandy soils in open areas such as meadows, prairies, and sagebrush habitats.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Poa |
Appearance
Sandberg bluegrass has blue-green leaves that are narrow and taper to a point. The leaves can grow up to 12 inches long, and the grass itself can grow up to 2 feet tall. The seed heads are open, airy, and have a slightly purple hue. The roots of Sandberg bluegrass are deep, which allows it to survive in dry, sandy soils.
Care Guide
Sandberg bluegrass is a low-maintenance grass that requires little watering or fertilization. It grows best in well-draining soils and prefers full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Water
Sandberg bluegrass is drought-tolerant and can survive on very little water. It prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Sandberg bluegrass, but if desired, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring.
Soil
Sandberg bluegrass prefers well-draining sandy soils but can also grow in clay soils.
Sunlight
Sandberg bluegrass prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones
Sandberg bluegrass is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sandberg bluegrass is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases. It is also attractive to grasshoppers and aphids.
Habitat
Sandberg bluegrass is native to the western United States and is often found growing in dry, sandy soils in open areas such as meadows, prairies, and sagebrush habitats. It is an important grass for erosion control in these areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sandberg bluegrass be used for turf?
A: Yes, Sandberg bluegrass can be used for turf, but it is not as commonly used as other types of grasses.
Q: Is Sandberg bluegrass invasive?
A: No, Sandberg bluegrass is not considered to be invasive.
Q: Can Sandberg bluegrass be used for grazing?
A: Yes, Sandberg bluegrass can be used for grazing, but it is not as palatable to livestock as other types of grasses.
Q: Does Sandberg bluegrass spread by rhizomes?
A: No, Sandberg bluegrass does not spread by rhizomes. It grows in bunches and has a deep root system.
Related Plants
- Poa pratensis (Kentucky bluegrass)
- Poa compressa (Canada bluegrass)
- Poa annua (annual bluegrass)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Poa triodioides
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources: Sandberg Bluegrass
- Colorado State University Extension: Sandberg Bluegrass
