Brachiaria Platynota (k.schum.) Robyns

Origin

Brachiaria platynota (K.Schum.) Robyns is a species of grass that is native to tropical Africa, and is widely distributed across the continent. It is commonly found in countries such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa.

Common names

The plant is known by many common names including diamond grass, signal grass, and false Rhodes grass. In some African countries, it is referred to as "Nandi setaria" or "Upwui dobuu" in the Oromo language.

Uses

Brachiaria platynota is an important forage grass for livestock and is also used for erosion control in some areas. The plant is highly adaptable and can grow well in a range of soils and climatic conditions, making it a popular choice among farmers and land managers. It is also used in some traditional medicine systems to treat various ailments such as fever and stomach cramps.

General appearance

The plant has a tufted growth pattern and can grow up to 2 meters tall. Its leaves are long, narrow and usually have an off-green color. The plant produces a large number of seeds and can spread rapidly, often forming dense stands. Its seeds are small and triangular, and are dispersed by wind, animals, and water.

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Light Requirements

Brachiaria platynota requires moderate to high levels of light for optimal growth and development. It thrives in areas that receive full to partial sunlight exposure throughout the day. However, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to scorching and wilting of the leaves.

Temperature Requirements

The plant grows best in warm to hot temperatures, with an ideal range of 20-35°C. It can tolerate occasional temperature fluctuations, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and even death. Brachiaria platynota requires a minimum temperature of 15°C for growth and should be protected from frost or cold snaps.

Soil Requirements

Brachiaria platynota thrives in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant can tolerate poor soil conditions, but optimal growth and development are achieved in fertile soils with moderate nutrient levels. It also grows well in sandy or loamy soils with good aeration, but it can struggle in clay soils with poor drainage. Regular application of organic matter or fertilizers can help improve soil quality and promote healthy plant growth.

Cultivation Methods

Brachiaria platynota is a hardy warm-season grass that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It can be easily propagated through seeds or vegetative propagation. For seed propagation, the seeds should be sown in well-prepared seedbeds during the early rainy season. Vegetative propagation can be done by stem cuttings, which should be planted in well-draining soil in the same season as the cutting.

Watering Needs

Brachiaria platynota requires regular watering to maintain its growth. It prefers well-drained soils with good moisture retention capacity. In areas with low rainfall, irrigation should be carried out regularly during the dry season to keep the grass healthy and green.

Fertilization

Fertilization is essential for the optimal growth of Brachiaria platynota. The grass responds well to nitrogen-rich fertilizers, and this should be applied during the rainy season. The best time to apply fertilizers is at planting and during the early growth stages. After establishment, a light application of fertilizer every month can help to maintain vigorous growth.

Pruning

Pruning or mowing helps to maintain the quality of Brachiaria platynota. The grass should be cut to a height of 10-15 cm to prevent damage to the growing points. Frequent mowing or grazing can help to control weeds and promote regrowth. Pruning should be done during the early stages of the rainy season or after rainfall to allow the grass to recover quickly.

Propagation of Brachiaria platynota (K.Schum.) Robyns

Brachiaria platynota (K.Schum.) Robyns is commonly propagated through seeds.

Seed propagation: The seeds of Brachiaria platynota are sown during the rainy season. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 to 2 cm and spaced about 20 to 30 cm apart. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually takes about 3-4 weeks.

The seed should be collected from healthy plants and dried. The dried seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be sown.

It is important to note that Brachiaria platynota has low seed viability, and the seeds should be sown immediately after harvesting.

Disease Management

Brachiaria platynota is susceptible to several diseases, including foliar and root diseases such as leaf spots, rusts, and root rots. The best way to manage foliar diseases is to avoid prolonged leaf wetness by watering early in the morning or late in the evening and ensuring proper drainage. In case of infection, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread of the disease. For root rots, proper soil drainage and avoidance of overwatering are essential. The use of fungicides may also help in managing fungal diseases.

Pest Management

The major pests that affect Brachiaria platynota are the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and nematodes. Fall armyworm can cause severe damage to the leaves, while nematodes can damage the roots and stunted growth of the plant. Cultural control measures such as crop rotation and sanitation can be effective in managing nematode infestation. The use of biocontrol agents such as entomopathogenic nematodes and the parasitoid wasp Cotesia marginiventris can be effective in managing fall armyworm infestation. Chemical control using insecticides can also be used, but it is essential to follow the label instructions to avoid environmental contamination and resistance buildup.