Origin and common names
Brachiaria lachnantha (Hochst.) Stapf is a species of grass that is native to Africa. It is commonly known as the African signalgrass or Lachnath brachiaria.
General appearance
The plant is a perennial and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. Its leaves are narrow and flat, with a dark green color. The stem is woody and thick, and the roots are fibrous and shallow. The flowers are arranged in a panicle and are usually purplish or greenish in color.
Uses
Brachiaria lachnantha is primarily used for pasture and forage purposes due to its high nutritional value for livestock. It is also used for soil conservation and erosion control due to its ability to form a dense cover. Additionally, the plant has been used in traditional medicine in some African countries to treat various ailments such as fever and diarrhea.
Light Conditions
Brachiaria lachnantha is a tropical grass that thrives well under full sunlight. Therefore, it requires exposure to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day to grow optimally. It is not suitable for areas with partial shade as it tends to grow thin and leggy.
Temperature Requirements
Being a tropical grass, Brachiaria lachnantha grows best in warm climates. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C to 40°C. However, it can tolerate higher temperatures up to 45°C and lower temperatures down to 15°C.
Soil Requirements
Brachiaria lachnantha can grow in various types of soil, but it prefers well-drained, fertile, and loamy soil. In areas with poor drainage, the roots may get waterlogged and may eventually lead to the death of the plant. It also requires a soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation of Brachiaria lachnantha
Brachiaria lachnantha can be propagated through seeds and vegetative means. However, seed propagation is the most common method. Sow the seeds in a well-prepared seedbed, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the seedbed moist until germination takes place. Transplant the seedlings to the field when they are about 10 centimeters tall.
Watering needs
This plant requires adequate moisture for optimum growth. Irrigate the field regularly, especially during the dry season when rainfall is low. Proper watering helps to ensure that the plant is not stressed, leading to better yields.
Fertilization
Brachiaria lachnantha needs adequate fertilization, especially with nitrogen. Apply fertilizers at the beginning of the rainy season to boost growth and promote flowering. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 17:17:17 is recommended.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of caring for Brachiaria lachnantha. It helps to promote better growth by removing dead or diseased branches and stimulating the emergence of new ones. Prune the plant during the rainy season to enable new branches to emerge quickly.
Propagation of Brachiaria lachnantha
Brachiaria lachnantha (Hochst.) Stapf is commonly propagated using vegetative methods as seed production is low and seed viability is poor. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, root cuttings, and tiller division.
Stem Cuttings:
Stem cuttings of Brachiaria lachnantha should be taken from healthy plants during the rainy season or when there is sufficient soil moisture. The stems should be cut into 15-20 cm long sections and planted in well-prepared soil to a depth of 5-10 cm. The cuttings should be watered regularly, preferably twice a day, until they are established.
Root Cuttings:
Root cuttings of Brachiaria lachnantha should be taken from healthy plants during the dry season when the plants are dormant. The roots should be cut into 10-15 cm long sections and planted in well-prepared soil to a depth of 5-10 cm. The cuttings should be watered regularly, preferably twice a day, until they are established.
Tiller Division:
Tiller division involves separating the tillers from the parent plant and planting them in well-prepared soil. This method is suitable for Brachiaria lachnantha as it produces a large number of tillers. The parent plant should be dug up and the tillers separated using a sharp knife or machete. The tillers should be planted in well-prepared soil to a depth of 5-10 cm and watered regularly until they are established.
Disease Management
Brachiaria lachnantha is susceptible to a range of diseases, including leaf spots, rusts, and fungal diseases. Leaf spots are caused by fungal infections and lead to small or large brown spots on the leaves, which eventually coalesce and cause defoliation if left untreated. Rust diseases are caused by fungi and lead to the formation of yellow or orange powdery masses on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Fungal diseases cause wilting, stunted growth, root rot, and even death of the plant.
The best approach to managing diseases is through prevention. Providing the plant with well-draining soil, adequate spacing, and proper air circulation can help reduce the occurrence of fungal diseases. Keeping the plant free of debris and dead plant matter can also help reduce the spread of fungal spores. Fungicides can be used to manage fungal diseases. It is important to use fungicides as directed and rotate the products used to prevent the development of resistance.
Pest Management
Brachiaria lachnantha is also susceptible to various pests, including grasshoppers, armyworms, aphids, and mites, which can cause significant damage to the plant. Grasshoppers and armyworms can consume the leaves, leading to defoliation, while aphids and mites can suck the sap from the leaves and cause discoloration and wilting.
The best approach to managing pests is through prevention. Ensuring proper soil health, adequate water supply, and proper spacing can help reduce the occurrence of pest problems. Non-chemical management options include manual removal of pests and the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Chemical management options include the application of insecticides and acaricides. It is important to use these products as directed and with caution to prevent harm to beneficial insects and other organisms.
