Brachiaria umboensis Stent & J.M.Rattray
Brachiaria umboensis is a perennial, tufted grass that is native to Africa. It is commonly known as "umbrella signalgrass" or "African signalgrass".
Uses
Brachiaria umboensis is primarily used for forage production and soil conservation. It is a valuable pasture grass and provides nutrition for livestock such as cattle and sheep. In addition, it has been observed to improve soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen and increasing organic matter content.
General Appearance
Brachiaria umboensis typically grows 80-120 cm tall and has a densely branched root system. The stems are erect and have nodes that are covered with short hairs. The leaves are narrow and flat, and can grow up to 30 cm in length. The inflorescence is a panicle that can be up to 30 cm long. The seeds are small and can be easily dispersed by wind.
Light Requirements
Brachiaria umboensis Stent & J.M.Rattray thrives in bright sunlight or partial shade with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant should be grown in an area with a southern or western exposure which receives ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for the growth of Brachiaria umboensis is between 20°C to 30°C. However, it can also tolerate extreme temperatures ranging from 7°C to 40°C. The plant is suitable for tropical and subtropical areas, and it can withstand periods of dry weather and drought.
Soil Requirements
The Brachiaria umboensis plant prefers well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic soils. A soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal for its proper growth and development. The soil should be enriched with organic matter to enhance its fertility and moisture retention capacity. The plant can also grow in sandy soils, but the addition of organic matter is highly recommended. The plant cannot tolerate water-logged soils, as this may lead to root rot and stunted growth.
Cultivation
Brachiaria umboensis Stent & J.M.Rattray, also known as African signal grass, is a warm-season perennial grass that grows best in full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but well-draining soils are preferred. The plant can be propagated by seed or vegetatively through stem cuttings.
Watering needs
It is important to keep the soil moist during the establishment phase of Brachiaria umboensis. Once established, the plant is drought tolerant and can withstand long periods of dry weather. However, it is important to water the plant during extended dry periods to maintain healthy growth.
Fertilization
Brachiaria umboensis requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer (such as a 10-10-10 or 20-10-10) three to four times a year, or as needed based on a soil test. Fertilizer applications should be timed with the plant's growth cycle, with additional applications during periods of high growth.
Pruning
Brachiaria umboensis requires regular pruning to promote healthy growth and remove old or dead stems. Prune the plant once or twice a year in late spring or early summer, cutting the stems back to a height of 2-3 inches above the ground. Avoid pruning during periods of drought or cold weather.
Propagation of Brachiaria umboensis:
Brachiaria umboensis is a warm-season grass that can be propagated through different methods. It is important to decide which method is most appropriate for the desired purpose of propagation.
Vegetative Propagation:
Vegetative propagation is the most common and convenient method for propagating Brachiaria umboensis. This method involves dividing the plant's roots or stems into pieces that can be planted separately to form new plants. The best time to divide the plant is during the growing season, which is generally from late spring to early autumn. The divided plant should be immediately transplanted or induced to root in a rooting hormone before planting.
Propagation Through Seeds:
Propagation through seeds is also possible for Brachiaria umboensis. However, seed propagation may take a longer time than vegetative propagation due to a low germination rate. It is essential to sow the seeds in well-draining soil and maintain adequate moisture levels. The seeds should be sown during the wet season, which is generally from late spring to early autumn. The germination time ranges from 10 to 20 days.
Disease Management
Brachiaria umboensis is prone to various diseases such as fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases. Fungal diseases commonly associated with Brachiaria umboensis are anthracnose, leaf smut, and rust disease. Bacterial diseases include bacterial wilt while viral diseases comprise of maize streak virus and Panicum streak virus. To manage these diseases, farmers should always ensure that the plants are healthy, free from pests, and planted in well-drained soils. Crop rotation is also recommended together with using certified seeds. In case of an outbreak, farmers can apply fungicides, bactericides, or virucides to manage the diseases.
Pest Management
Brachiaria umboensis is also prone to pest infestation which can cause significant damage to plant growth. Common pests that can affect the plant include the fall armyworm, stem borer, and aphids. To manage pests in Brachiaria umboensis, farmers should monitor their farms regularly to detect any infestations early. Handpicking larvae and egg masses, use of biological control agents such as parasitoids, and the application of insecticides can help manage pest infestations. Moreover, planting pest-resistant varieties can be an effective control measure.
