Origin:
Dichanthium bladhii, commonly known as Bladh's grass or blue couch grass, is a species of grass that is native to Africa and Asia. It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in countries such as India and Australia.
Common names:
Dichanthium bladhii is widely known as Bladh's grass or blue couch grass. It is also referred to using various local names such as 'rock grass' and 'spear grass' in some African countries.
Uses:
Dichanthium bladhii has a range of uses. It is used as a forage plant for livestock due to its high nutritional content. The grass can also be used as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion and enhance soil fertility. Some traditional medicines use the plant extracts to treat a variety of ailments such as constipation and skin disorders.
General appearance:
Dichanthium bladhii is a tufted, perennial grass that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves are bright green and can be up to 30 cm long with 3-7 veins. The flowers are borne on slender stems and are arranged in spikelets that have a blue-grey hue. The seeds are oval-shaped and covered in hairs that aid in their dispersal by wind.
Growth conditions for Dichanthium bladhii (Retz.) Clayton
When it comes to the growth conditions for Dichanthium bladhii, there are several factors to consider. Below are the typical growth conditions needed for this plant.
Light Requirements
Dichanthium bladhii grows best in full sun, meaning it requires direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. This plant can tolerate some shade, but too much can cause stunted growth and reduced seed production.
Temperature Requirements
Dichanthium bladhii can grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers warm to hot climates with temperatures ranging from 20-35°C (68-95°F). It can also tolerate mild frost, but extended periods of freezing temperatures can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Dichanthium bladhii can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained, sandy or clay loam soils. The soil should also have a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (between 6.5 and 8.5). This plant can tolerate drought conditions, but it will not grow well in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation of Dichanthium bladhii (Retz.) Clayton
Dichanthium bladhii is a hardy grass species that is relatively easy to cultivate. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in a wide range of soil types, including poor, sandy soil.
Watering Needs
While Dichanthium bladhii is drought-tolerant, it still requires regular watering during its establishment phase. After that, it can survive on less water, but regular watering will promote healthy growth and flowering. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Dichanthium bladhii does not require excessive fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Avoid applying fertilizer during the dormant season.
Pruning
Dichanthium bladhii does not require regular pruning. However, if the plant becomes too tall or starts to look untidy, you can use a grass trimmer or sharp pair of scissors to cut it back. Make sure to remove the clippings, as leaving them can stifle growth and promote disease.
Propagation Methods of Dichanthium bladhii (Retz.) Clayton
Dichanthium bladhii (Retz.) Clayton, commonly called Blady grass or carpet grass, propagates via various means. The plant is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae, native to Asia, Australia, and Africa.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Dichanthium bladhii is through seeds. The seeds of the plant require good soil moisture conditions, temperature range of 20-30°C and favorable pH range for germination. The seeds can be sown directly in the tilled fields or beds and must be covered with a light layer of soil.
Vegetative Propagation
The plant can also propagate through roots, rhizomes, and stolons in suitable conditions. In vegetative propagation, a fragment of healthy plant is rooted, producing a new plant genetically identical to the parent plant.
The plant's root cuttings can be carried out by slicing the roots into small cuttings, dipping them into rooting hormones and planting them in well-draining soil. Stolons or runners, which are creeping horizontal stems, can be removed and planted in the soil, and they will root and eventually produce a new plant. Rhizomes, which are also horizontal stems, can be divided into small portions and planted in damp soil.
Disease Management
Dichanthium bladhii is susceptible to several fungal diseases such as rust, leaf spot, and blight. Rust appears as orange to brown powdery spots on leaves, while leaf spot causes yellow spots that may enlarge and turn brown. Blight causes wilting, reddening, and ultimately, death of the plants. To manage these diseases, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plant parts, provide good drainage, and avoid overhead irrigation. Fungicides may also be used as a preventative measure.
Pest Management
The primary insect pest that attacks Dichanthium bladhii is the armyworm. The larvae feed on the leaves, causing severe damage to the plant. Snails and slugs may also be a problem, especially during wet conditions. To manage these pests, proper sanitation practices such as removing plant debris and weeds are necessary. Bacillus thuringiensis is an effective insecticide against armyworms while iron phosphate baits are effective against snails and slugs.
