American Beachgrass

 

Ecological Considerations:

American beachgrass, a hardy perennial grass native to eastern North America, is known for its ability to grow on sand dunes and to aid in dune stabilization along New England’s coast. Beach grass grows well in areas characterized by shifting sands and areas exposed to high winds, particularly where foredunes form along the beach. It grows well in intense heat and extreme sunlight. It rarely is found inland of coastal dunes, possibly because of its susceptibility to soil pathogens, common in stabilized coastal areas but scarce in freshly deposited sand. Beachgrass plants ordinarily grow to heights of 2 to 3 feet.

American beachgrass puts out underground rhizomes extending outward under the sand and giving rise to new plants, thus colonizing the dune environments. These rhizomes can spread out 6 to 10 feet annually and can produce as many was 100 stems per clump annually. Seed production is sparse.

Map Areas where this Plant can be used for Revegetation: 1C

Propagation Mechanisms/Strategies for Encouraging its Establishment:

Vegetative establishment is the most promising approach to encouraging Beachgrass establishment. Culms can be planted from October 15 until April 1 in most areas. They are but planted at least 8 inches deep for them to withstand winds and desiccation as they become established. Plant two or more 18 to 24 inch long stems in each hole and plant them 18 to 24 inches apart. If the area is subject to severe winds, planting distances can be reduced to 12 inches between culms.
Fertilizing new stands of beachgrass may improve plant survival and vigor. Application of 30 – 60 pounds of nitrogen per acre, split into a spring and an early summer application is advised, with the spring application being applied at least a month following establishment, and no earlier than April 1. Once the stand is established, fertilizer applications can be reduced by half, or only when the stand appears weakened.

New plants should be protected from human traffic or other factors that can break or trample plants and roots. Fencing is strongly recommended. Establishing areas should be monitored annually and where voids occur, these patches should be replanted.

Best Planting Practices/Options and Pros and Cons of Options:

Key Issues Regarding its Ecology ( e.g. Which Invasives Threaten it, What Conditions Favor it)

Associated Ecological Benefits:

American beachgrass is key to sand dune establishment and sand dune stabilization and thus key in erosion control and shoreline protection.

Availability of Locally Sourced Seeds and Plants:

Welcome to Blue Moon Farm

 

Case Studies of Native Plant Establishment Efforts/Lessons Learned:

Additional photos: