Smooth Brome
bromus commutatus
Also known as: ["Common Brome","Meadow Brome"]
Overview
A perennial grass species native to Europe and naturalized in North America, often found in meadows and pastures.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Bromus |
| Botanical Name: | Bromus commutatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: meadows, pastures, or open woodland areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with moderate fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
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 placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until drainage occurs, avoid frequent shallow watering, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter in spring; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold down to 20°F (-6°C) but thrives in cooler climates.
Monitor nighttime temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings; adjust watering based on heat stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to prevent excessive foliage growth; water before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of clumps can also be done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly in trays.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings.
- Divide mature clumps by cutting through roots.
- Replant divisions immediately.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when temperatures are moderate and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F or 21–24°C) with indirect light for seeds; similar conditions for division.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or garden soil for division.
Hormone
Not required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid division if roots are damaged.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks under optimal conditions; division establishes quickly in 1–2 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, potting mix, watering can, sharp knife or spade for division.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups; protect young seedlings from strong sun; water divisions thoroughly after planting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Hand-pull or cut back unwanted growth; shear lightly to shape if desired.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Hand pruners, gloves, and a small rake for cleanup.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; prune dead growth; avoid cutting healthy stems; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allowing excess water to drain freely; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay amendments.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in extreme heat; leaf drop or frost damage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or frost injury, especially in wet soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold weather; move potted plants to sheltered locations if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor, especially in combination with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at half-strength; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBromus commutatus is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBromus commutatus is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not contain known substances that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBromus commutatus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a grass species that does not produce known toxic compounds.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bromus commutatus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It is a perennial grass that spreads via rhizomes and seeds, thriving in meadows and pastures.
Q: Does it require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and highly tolerant of drought conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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