May have found an alternative use for Old Word Bluestems.

While observing young Indiangrass plants in an area dominated by Old Word Bluestems, it was noted that virtually all the young Indian plants were growing within the clumps of OWB’s which are considered a ‘bunch’ grass. The various bare ground sites surrounding the OWB’s do not show signs of Indian germination or establishment. (Bare ground it a result of the dominance of the OWB, bunch grasses do not have tillers or rhizomes.) Of note, the OWB was dying that the Indian had established itself within. MMMMmmm. What if we have found a way to reduce the population of OWB and increase the Indiangrass at the same time?

Some of you ‘professionals’ feel free to offer your thoughts. This is a new one for me, and perhaps I am miss reading it. Take the time to zoom in so you can differentiate between the Indian and OWB.

1^st picture shows Indian and OWB two days after cattle were removed. Both were heavily grazed in the short time the cattle were present.

2^Nd picture shows young Indian growing within the center of a OWB. Using it as a HOST plant?

3^rd picture shows a developed Indian plant that has dominated the OWB, perhaps killing it?