Slender Meadow-grass
micropyrum tenellum
Also known as: ["Slender Meadow-grass"]
Overview
A small, delicate annual grass with fine leaves and inconspicuous flowers, often found in disturbed areas and lawns.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Micropyrum |
| Botanical Name: | Micropyrum tenellum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: ground cover in rock gardens or as an ornamental lawn substitute
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; place in filtered sunlight outdoors; protect from direct midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water only when the top inch of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems to just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water lightly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer, reduce in fall and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in temperatures above 85°F (29°C) without adequate humidity.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure proper ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMicropyrum tenellum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicMicropyrum tenellum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicMicropyrum tenellum is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Micropyrum tenellum a weed?
A: Yes, it is often considered a weed due to its tendency to grow in disturbed areas and lawns.
Q: Is Micropyrum tenellum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How easy is it to care for Micropyrum tenellum?
A: It is very easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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