Origin
Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf var. velutina (Chiov.) Henrard is a species of grass that is native to Africa. It is mostly found in Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, and Tanzania.
Common Names
This grass species is commonly known as "African finger millet", "Abyssinian finger millet", and "Teff grass".
Uses
The African finger millet is a valuable food crop that is used to make traditional Ethiopian and Eritrean flatbread called injera. It is also used in porridges, beverages, and as a gluten-free flour substitute. In addition to its culinary uses, the grass is used in erosion control and can be grown as a forage crop for livestock.
General Appearance
The African finger millet is an annual grass that can grow up to a height of 3-4 feet. It has fine, wiry stems that are topped with dense, millet-like seed heads. The leaves are narrow, long and pointed, and grow in an upright position. The grass grows well in well-drained soil and in areas with moderate rainfall and low temperatures.
Light Requirements
Digitaria abyssinica var. velutina thrives in full sunlight conditions. It requires at least six hours of sunlight per day to encourage healthy growth and development. Lack of sunlight may cause stunted growth and poor yield. Therefore, it is advisable to choose a location that receives direct sunlight for maximum growth rates.
Soil Requirements
The soil type and quality significantly affects the growth of Digitaria abyssinica var. velutina. The plant prefers well-drained and loose soils that have good water retention capacity. Shallow soils should be avoided since the plant requires adequate depth for its root development. A pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal and rich soils that are high in organic matter content helps in the growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for the growth of Digitaria abyssinica var. velutina ranges from 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 15°C and above 35°C may affect the growth rate and development of the plant adversely. It is essential to protect the plant from frost since exposure to cold temperatures may cause the death of the plant.
Cultivation methods
Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf var. velutina (Chiov.) Henrard, commonly known as African couch grass, is a perennial, tufted grass that thrives in tropical and subtropical areas. It grows best in well-drained soils with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers full sunlight and can tolerate moderate shade. It is propagated via seeds or vegetatively through tillers or stem cuttings.
Watering needs
Digitaria abyssinica requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered regularly but not excessively. Overwatering may lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It is essential to water the plant thoroughly, especially during dry spells and drought conditions. Generally, the plant can tolerate dry conditions once it is fully established.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and vigor. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. The fertilizer should be applied in the early stages of growth, and thereafter, every two to three months.
Pruning
To maintain a lush and healthy garden, pruning is necessary. For Digitaria abyssinica, pruning involves cutting the plant to a reasonable height every six months to allow for new growth. The plant also requires regular trimming of dead leaves and stems to prevent pest infestation and enhance its visual appeal. Pruning should be done with sharp and clean tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Digitaria abyssinica var. velutina
Digitaria abyssinica var. velutina is a perennial grass that is propagated through both sexual and vegetative methods.
Seed propagation
The plant produces viable seeds that can be used for propagation. The seeds should be collected when they are fully mature, usually during the dry season. The seeds are processed to remove chaff and other debris. The cleaned seeds can be planted in prepared beds or pots. The soil should be well-drained and fertile. The seeds can be sown at a depth of 1-2 centimeters. Germination may take up to 10 days.
Vegatative propagation
The plant can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants. The cuttings should be 5-6 centimeters long and stripped of all leaves except the top two. The cuttings can be planted directly in the field or in pots. The soil should be moist and well-drained. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they root, usually within 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management
Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf var. velutina (Chiov.) Henrard is susceptible to various diseases, including leaf spots, rust, and powdery mildew. Leaf spots are caused by fungi and appear as small, rounded spots with a dark center and yellow halo on the leaves. Rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia spp., results in raised, orange pustules on leaves, stems, and inflorescences. Powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Erysiphe elicis, forms white or gray fungal growth on the leaves and stems.
To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. For rust, remove infected plant parts and use a fungicide if necessary. Powdery mildew can be managed by ensuring good air circulation and applying fungicides as necessary.
Pest Management
Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Stapf var. velutina (Chiov.) Henrard may be attacked by pests such as grasshoppers, aphids, and cutworms. Grasshoppers feed on the leaves and stems, causing significant damage. Aphids suck sap, causing wilting and stunted growth. Cutworms may cut the stems, and young plants are especially susceptible.
To manage grasshoppers, handpick and destroy them, or use insecticides. Aphids can be controlled by introducing natural enemies such as ladybugs and lacewings or by applying insecticidal soap. Cutworms can be managed by keeping the soil free from debris and using collars around the base of the plant to prevent the larvae from feeding on the stem.
