Description of Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack.
Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack., commonly known as crowfoot grass or crabgrass, is a species of grass that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa.
General Appearance
This plant typically grows to a height of 30 to 60 cm and has a prostrate or decumbent habit. The leaves are linear in shape, with a length of up to 12 cm, and have a slightly rough texture. The flowers are arranged in clusters on spikes that emerge from the center of the plant. Each spike can contain up to 15 seed-bearing spikelets.
Uses
Dactyloctenium geminatum is primarily used as a forage plant for livestock. It is also used as a ground cover in ornamental gardens and as a turfgrass in low-maintenance lawns. In some traditional medicines, the plant and its seeds have been used to treat conditions such as fever and dysentery.
Common Names
Dactyloctenium geminatum is commonly known by several names, including crowfoot grass, crabgrass, Dhobie grass, and goosegrass.
Light Requirements
Dactyloctenium geminatum is a warm-season grass that requires plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. It grows well in full sun, which means it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If the plant is grown indoors, it must be provided with sufficient artificial light that replicates natural sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Dactyloctenium geminatum is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. It is tolerant of high temperatures and can survive in temperatures as high as 40°C. The plant can also withstand some periods of drought but does not tolerate frost. To promote plant growth, the temperature should not fall below 15°C, and the ideal temperature range is between 25°C and 35°C.
Soil Requirements
Dactyloctenium geminatum is adaptable to different soil types, but it grows best in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It prefers sandy or loam soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, to promote optimal plant growth. The plant can tolerate slightly saline soils and is often found growing in sandy soils in coastal regions.
Cultivation
Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack. grows best in warm tropical and sub-tropical climates. It prefers full exposure to sunlight, and the soil should be well-draining with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. It can be propagated via seed or vegetative parts and is commonly planted in lawns, golf courses, and sports fields.
Watering Needs
Regular and consistent watering is necessary during the establishment stage; 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week helps the roots to develop. Once the plant is established, it requires less water but still requires regular and consistent watering to keep it healthy and lush. Watering should be done in the morning to allow the foliage to dry during the day and prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
A well-balanced fertilizer should be applied to the soil every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Ensure that the fertilizer contains an equal or higher amount of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Fertilizer application should be done during the early morning when the temperature is cool and the soil is moist.
Pruning
Pruning is not a requirement for Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack. but can be done to maintain a specific height or to remove damaged or diseased foliage. It is suggested to cut less than one-third of the blade length to avoid shocking the plant. Pruning can be done during the growing season.
Propagation of Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack.
Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack. is a warm-season perennial grass, commonly known as crowfoot grass. It can be propagated through various methods which are explained below.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack. is through seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil during late spring or early summer when the soil temperature has reached around 15°C. Before sowing, ensure that the soil is loosened and free of weeds. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1 cm and water them well. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. Crowfoot grass is self-fertile and produces a large amount of viable seed that can be collected and stored for future use.
Vegetative Propagation
Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack. can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season, ensuring that they are about 10-15 cm long and have 3-4 nodes. Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone powder and plant it in well-draining soil. Water the cutting thoroughly and place it in a bright, warm area. Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks and can be transplanted into a permanent location after the plant has established itself.
Division Propagation
Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack. can also be propagated by division during the spring or early summer months. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system. Replant the sections into well-draining soil, water thoroughly, and keep it in a partially shaded area until the plant establishes itself.
Disease Management
Dactyloctenium geminatum Hack. is known to be susceptible to several fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf-spot, and rust. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to practice proper sanitation methods by removing and destroying infected plant debris. Avoid overcrowding plants as this may create a favorable environment for disease development. Applying fungicides regularly may also help control these diseases. It is important to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using fungicides to avoid injury to the plant or the environment.
Pest Management
Aphids, spider mites, and armyworms are common pests that may infest D. geminatum Hack. plants. To manage these pests, regularly inspect the plants for signs of infestation such as yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps to the environment to control populations of aphids and spider mites. For severe infestations, apply insecticides or miticides that are specifically formulated to treat these pests. Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using pesticides to avoid injury to the plant and to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
