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Agrostis canina
Velvet Bent
Agrostis canina
Dog's Hairgrass (Agrostis canina) is a low-growing, bunchgrass, often forming dense tufts. It is a common and adaptable species, often found in lawns, meadows, and disturbed areas. It tolerates a wide range of conditions but prefers moist to moderately dry soil and full sun to partial shade.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan2 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Watering Requirements

Method: top water

Frequency: when soil is dry

Notes: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: moderate

Alternative NamesBrown Bentgrass, Agrostis tenuis
Lolium arundinaceum
tall fescue
Lolium arundinaceum
Reed fescue is a similar grass, with both having a similar tolerance to soil moisture and sun. They are also relatively drought tolerant when established, creating a dense, resilient ground cover.
Phleum pratense
Timothy grass
Phleum pratense
Timothy grass will provide a complementary ground cover that, like Dog's Hairgrass, isn't overly fussy and tolerates a wide range of conditions. Timothy tends to make a nice understory for shrubs or flowering perennials.
Elymus repens
Quack Grass
Elymus repens

Quackgrass is an aggressive spreader and can outcompete Agrostis canina for nutrients and space, potentially smothering it.

Bromus tectorum
Cheatgrass
Bromus tectorum

Downy brome is another competitive grass that can quickly take over a garden bed or lawn if left unchecked, thus crowding out the desired Dog's Hairgrass.

Slugs and Snails

These pests can damage the foliage of Agrostis canina by consuming the leaves and stems. Symptoms include visible holes and general gnawing damage.

Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers can chew on the leaves, particularly during warmer months, resulting in bite marks and possible stunting of growth.

Neem Oil

Helpful in controlling pests like slugs, snails, and grasshoppers.

Compost

Improving soil health and structure will encourage healthy growth of Dog's Hairgrass.