North Atlantic Region. Extending from the Canadian border to the Virginia capes, American beachgrass
is the dominant dune stabilizing plant in this region; bitter panicum offers promise as a
companion plant.
American Beachgrass (Ammophila breviligulata). This species is probably the most widely used for the
initial stabilization of blowing sand because it grows rapidly and can effectively trap sand by the middle of the
first growing season. Once established, it multiplies quickly. It prefers cool weather and plants start growing in
early spring and continue through fall under the most favorable conditions. The grass can be transplanted over a
long planting season with a good chance of survival. American beachgrass is available commercially or may also
be harvested from wild stands. Seedlings are the preferred method of planting. Starting from seed is usually
uneconomical because seed supplies are unreliable and weeds are difficult to control.
Bitter Panicum (Panicum amarum). This grass is indigenous along the Atlantic coast from Connecticut
southward. It is best used as a companion to American beachgrass, especially in those areas where the
beachgrass is subject to severe attack by the disease, soft scale.
South Atlantic Region. This region extends from the Virginia capes to Key West. Sea oats is the
dominant plant; however, both American beachgrass and bitter panicum will successfully establish dunes, when
planted in combination with sea oats, especially in the northern part of the region.
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