Origin and Common Names
Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf var. micrantha Peter, commonly known as Abyssinian finger grass, is a species of grass native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. It is found in countries such as Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya. The grass is also known by other names, including smallflower digitgrass and Egyptian finger grass.Appearance
Abyssinian finger grass is an annual or perennial grass that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a slender stem that is often branched and somewhat flattened. The stem and leaves may have fine hairs, which can give them a slightly rough texture. The leaves are narrow and have a bluish-green color. The inflorescence of the grass consists of finger-like spikes, which are usually 5-15 centimeters long and about 2 millimeters wide.Uses
The Abyssinian finger grass has various uses in different parts of Africa. In Ethiopia, it is commonly used for grazing and hay production. It is also known to be an important forage crop for livestock production in Tanzania. The grass is also used in traditional medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, with its extract being used to reduce pain and swelling. Additionally, the grass is used for soil conservation in some areas due to its ability to prevent soil erosion. Overall, the Abyssinian finger grass is a versatile plant that has various applications and is valued in different African countries.Light Requirements
Digitaria abyssinica var. micrantha thrives under full sun exposure. It requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day. Lack of adequate light may result in the development of weak and spindly stems, which could lead to lodging.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety is best grown in warm regions with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It can tolerate high temperatures of up to 40°C, provided water is plentiful. At temperatures below 15°C, the plant growth rate is lowered, and it may become susceptible to frost.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria abyssinica var. micrantha prefers well-drained soils with a neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should have good water retention capacity to keep the plant hydrated. These plants thrive in sandy loam or clay soils with moderate to high fertility levels.
Cultivation of Digitaria abyssinica
Digitaria abyssinica is a warm-season grass that is best grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade. This grass can be cultivated either in the ground or in containers. When grown in containers, make sure that the container has good drainage.
Watering needs of Digitaria abyssinica
This plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, or when the soil looks dry. However, avoid overwatering as this grass will not tolerate wet soil or waterlogged conditions.
Fertilization of Digitaria abyssinica
This plant is not very demanding when it comes to fertilization. For best results, apply a balanced fertilizer once every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can also use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
Pruning of Digitaria abyssinica
Pruning is not necessary for this grass, but you can trim it if you desire to maintain a specific height or shape. If you decide to prune the plant, do so in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation of Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf var. micrantha Peter
Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf var. micrantha Peter, commonly known as finger millet or African millet, can be propagated by seed or vegetative means.
Seed propagation
The most common propagation method for Digitaria abyssinica is by sowing seed. Seeds should be collected from plants that are healthy and pest-free. The best time to collect seeds is when the seedheads have turned a golden-brown color and the seeds can be easily removed by gently rubbing them.
The seeds should be treated with a fungicide before sowing to protect them from fungal diseases. Sow the seeds in well-prepared soil, either by broadcast sowing or by drilling them into rows. The ideal planting depth is about 1 to 2 centimeters.
After sowing, the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 5 to 10 days, depending on the temperature and soil moisture.
Vegetative propagation
Digitaria abyssinica can also be propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be about 10 to 15 centimeters in length. The cuttings should be planted in well-prepared soil at a depth of about 2 centimeters and kept moist until they root.
Division can be done by digging up a clump of plants and separating them into smaller clumps, each with several shoots and a good root system. These smaller clumps can then be replanted in well-prepared soil at a depth of about 2 centimeters and kept moist until they establish.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to provide good care and maintenance to the new plants, including proper watering, fertilization, and pest control.
Disease and Pest Management for Digitaria abyssinica var. micrantha
Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf is a species of grass commonly found in sub-Saharan Africa. The plant is known for its high nutrient content and tolerance to drought. However, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its yield and quality. To manage these problems, proactive strategies should be implemented.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Digitaria abyssinica var. micrantha is leaf blight. This fungal disease causes circular lesions on the leaves, which can spread and eventually lead to plant death. Other fungal diseases that may affect the plant include anthracnose and rust.
To manage these diseases, it is recommended to practice crop rotation and maintain proper plant spacing to increase air circulation and reduce humidity levels, which are favorable conditions for fungal growth. Additionally, applying fungicides can help prevent and control the spread of these diseases. Fungicides containing copper or sulfur are effective in managing fungal infections.
Common Pests
Digitaria abyssinica var. micrantha is also vulnerable to pest infestations, including armyworms, cutworms, and grasshoppers. These pests can cause extensive damage by eating the leaves and stems of the plant, and in severe cases, can cause complete plant death.
To control pest populations, it is essential to maintain a clean and weed-free field and practice regular monitoring to detect pest infestations early. Physical barriers such as nets or fences can also be used to prevent pest entry into the growing area. Insecticides formulated with pyrethrin or neem oil are effective in managing pest populations while minimizing environmental impact.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests in Digitaria abyssinica var. micrantha is essential to ensure optimal yield and quality. Consistent monitoring, implementing preventative measures, and using appropriate pesticides or fungicides when necessary can help maintain a healthy and productive crop.
