Overview
Cenchrus catharticus Delile is a type of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as the "African foxtail grass," "buffel grass," or "sandbur," and is native to Africa, particularly the savannah regions.
General Appearance
The grass can grow up to 1 meter in height and forms dense clumps with its numerous tillers. Its leaves are narrow and long, measuring about 12-50cm x 2–10 mm, and are rough on the surface. The seedheads are cylindrical and measure about 3–15cm long. Its spikelets are arranged neatly in rows on the cylindrical seedheads.
Uses
Cenchrus catharticus Delile is primarily used for forage, providing an excellent source of feed for livestock due to its high protein and energy content. It is also an important grass for soil and water conservation in arid and semi-arid regions since it is drought-tolerant and can grow in poor soils.
Additionally, this plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments such as diarrhea, respiratory infections, and fever. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular ingredient in many medicinal remedies.
Cultivation
Cenchrus catharticus Delile grows best in warm climates and can adapt to various soil types. It is commonly propagated by seed and can be sown directly in the field. It also has a high drought tolerance making it a suitable plant for areas with limited rainfall.
Invasive Species
Cenchrus catharticus Delile has been introduced to several countries outside its native range, including Australia and parts of the United States where they pose a threat as an invasive species. They can rapidly colonize and take over natural habitats, displacing native flora and fauna.
hereLight Requirements
Cenchrus catharticus Delile grows best in full sun environments with at least six hours of sunlight per day. Insufficient light may cause the plant to grow weak and spindly. The plant relies on sunlight as an energy source, and the intensity of the light affects the speed of growth. Thus, it is best to expose the plant to direct sunlight to encourage healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. However, Cenchrus catharticus Delile grows best in areas with a temperature range of 18°C to 27°C. Temperatures below 10°C may slow the plant's growth, while temperatures above 38°C can lead to damage or death of the plant. Therefore, the plant should be grown in areas with mild temperatures, away from harsh environmental conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil and thrives best in neutral to slightly acid soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is drought-resistant, though it requires enough moisture to maintain growth. Overly wet or poorly drained soils can harm the plant, leading to root rot or other diseases. Before planting, it is advisable to prepare the soil by removing debris and mixing in organic matter.
Cultivation of Cenchrus catharticus Delile
Cenchrus catharticus Delile, commonly known as African foxtail grass, is a warm-season perennial grass that is native to North Africa and the Middle East. It is known for its ability to adapt to a wide range of soil types and climatic conditions, making it a popular option for livestock forage and soil conservation.
When it comes to cultivation, African foxtail grass prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil pH, from 4.5-8.0. The grass is tolerant of drought but prefers moderate rainfall amounts of up to 700 mm per annum. To establish a proper stand, planting at the onset of the rainy season can increase its chances of survival.
Watering requirements
The water requirements of African foxtail grass depend largely on the climate and soil conditions. In areas where rainfall is scarce, it would be best to irrigate the grass regularly to ensure uniform growth and development. This should aim to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Watering should be done preferably in the morning or evening to minimize water loss due to evaporation. The amount of water needed may vary widely depending on the stage of growth and conditions of the soil; however, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to water stagnation and conditions favoring root rot diseases.
Fertilizing Cenchrus catharticus Delile
African foxtail grass responds well to proper fertilization, which can result in higher yields and better quality forage. A soil analysis will determine the amount and type of fertilizer required for adequate growth.
The fertilizer should be applied before planting or during the onset of the rainy season when the grass is in the vegetative stage. Nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium are essential nutrients for growth and development, and the recommended application should be 150-250 kg/ha, 50-75 kg/ha, and 75-100 kg/ha, respectively.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential component of Cenchrus catharticus Delile's cultivation since it ensures the grass remains dense and has adequate nutritional value. Pruning improves the quality of the forage and increases plant vigor. Pruning is done by cutting the grass down to a height of 10 to 15 cm above the ground. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth.
Overall, with proper cultivation and care, African foxtail grass can thrive in a wide range of climatic and soil conditions, making it an excellent option for livestock forage and soil conservation.
Propagation of Cenchrus catharticus Delile
Cenchrus catharticus Delile, also known as buffel grass, is a perennial grass that is commonly found in the African savanna. If you are interested in propagating this plant, you can use one of these methods:
Seed propagation
The most common way to propagate buffel grass is through seeds. Collect the seeds during the late summer or early fall when they are fully mature. Clean the seeds to remove any debris, and then dry them in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.
When planting the seeds, make sure the soil is well-draining and has plenty of organic matter. You can plant the seeds directly in the soil, but it may be more effective to start them in pots and transplant them once they have established roots. Keep the soil moist, but not water-logged, until the seeds germinate.
Vegetative propagation
Buffel grass can also be propagated through vegetative means, such as stem cuttings or division. To propagate using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut it into pieces that are approximately 6 inches long. Insert the cuttings into well-draining soil, making sure the top of the cutting is about 1 inch above the soil surface. Keep the soil moist, and the cutting should take root within a few weeks.
Division is another option for propagating buffel grass. To do this, dig up a healthy clump of the grass and separate it into several smaller clumps. Plant these smaller clumps in well-draining soil, and keep them moist until they are established.
Regardless of which method you use, be patient. Buffel grass can take several months to establish, but with proper care and attention, you should soon have a healthy and thriving plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Cenchrus catharticus Delile
Cenchrus catharticus Delile, commonly known as African foxtail grass, is a perennial grass species that is native to Africa. As a forage species, it has gained popularity in many parts of the world due to its tolerance for drought, salinity, and grazing. However, several pests and diseases can affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the common ones:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: The grass can be attacked by various fungal diseases such as Pyricularia grisea, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizoctonia solani. Symptoms of these diseases include wilting, leaf spots, and stunted growth. To manage these diseases, it is crucial to maintain good plant hygiene by removing and disposing of infected plant parts. Applying fungicides can also help control the diseases.
Viral diseases: Cenchrus catharticus is susceptible to many viral diseases such as maize streak virus and sugarcane mosaic virus. Infected plants may exhibit stunted growth and mottled leaves with yellow spots. There is no known cure for viral diseases, and controlling them can prove difficult. The best approach is to prevent the spread of the virus by controlling the insects that transmit them.
Pests
Cutworms: These are common pests in young Cenchrus catharticus plants and can cause severe damage by cutting the stem or uprooting the plant. To prevent this, one can apply insecticides or create a physical barrier around the plant.
Grasshoppers: These are the most common pest on fully grown plants, causing damage by chewing the leaves. One can manage grasshoppers by use of approved insecticides.
Mites: The grass can be susceptible to the red mite, which causes yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. Use of approved miticides can help control this pest.
In conclusion, managing Cenchrus catharticus pests and diseases is vital for a healthy stand. Good cultural practices such as crop rotation and sanitation can help prevent the spread of diseases, while the use of approved pesticides can control insect pests and mites.
