Overview of Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh.
Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. is a species of the grass family Poaceae. It is commonly known as the smooth crabgrass and is a widespread weed species found in many parts of the world.
Origin and Distribution
The smooth crabgrass is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. However, it has been widely introduced to many parts of the world, including the Americas and Europe. In North America, it is a common weed species that is found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas.
Appearance
The smooth crabgrass is an annual grass that typically grows up to 60 cm in height. It has a prostrate growth habit and has stems that are slender, flattened, and slightly hairy. The leaves are smooth, narrow, and grow up to 5 cm in length. The inflorescence is a cluster of narrow spikes that can grow up to 15 cm in length. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the seedhead is purplish-brown in color.
Uses
Smooth crabgrass is an important plant in folk medicine, and it was traditionally used for different ailments such as infections, wounds, and fever. The grass is also used as a livestock fodder, and some people use the plant as an ornamental grass.
hereLight Requirements
Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. is a warm-season grass that thrives in full sunlight. They require a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow optimally. Inadequate light slows down their growth and can cause spindly, weak plants.
Temperature Requirements
Being a warm-season grass, Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. grows best in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for their growth is between 25 to 35°C. Temperatures below 20°C hinder the growth of this plant, while temperatures above 40°C cause desiccation and stunted growth of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. prefers soils that are well drained, moderately fertile, and slightly acidic. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as there is adequate drainage. Adding organic matter to the soil before planting helps improve soil fertility and nutrient content.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. is a warm-season perennial grass that is native to tropical Africa, but it can be cultivated in other warm regions of the world. It requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and a pH level of 6.0-7.5. The grass can be propagated from seed or vegetatively through rhizomes or stolons. It performs well in full sunlight, but it can tolerate some shade.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the growth and survival of Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. The grass requires regular watering throughout the growing season to maintain its lush green appearance. The watering frequency and intensity should be adjusted according to the soil moisture and weather conditions. Over-watering can lead to waterlogging and root rot, while under-watering can cause the grass to wilt and die.
Fertilization
The grass requires a balanced fertilization program to support its growth and development. A soil analysis can help determine the nutrient deficiencies and guide the selection of the appropriate fertilizers. The grass can be fertilized with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium based on its specific requirements. Organic fertilizers can also be used to improve the soil fertility and structure.
Pruning
Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. requires regular pruning to promote new growth and maintain its shape. The grass can be cut to a height of 6-12 inches using a sharp lawn mower or a trimmer. The pruning frequency can be adjusted according to the growth rate and the desired appearance. It is important to avoid cutting the grass too short, as this can weaken the plant and make it vulnerable to pests and diseases.
Propagation Methods
The Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. is commonly propagated using seeds. However, vegetative propagation through stolons or runners is also an acceptable method.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. through seeds is a straightforward process. Seed propagation is best done during the rainy season when the soil is moist. To propagate the plant, collect mature seed heads and dry them under shade to reduce moisture content. Afterward, the seeds can be stored until it is time for planting. It is best to plant the seeds 1 cm deep in the soil and water them immediately. Germination takes approximately two weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
In vegetative propagation, runners or stolons with roots are extracted from the mother plant and transplanted to a moist soil bed. The transplants need to be watered daily to keep the soil moist. Roots typically develop after a few weeks, and the plant begins growing. Vegetative propagation is an excellent way to preserve desirable traits seen in the mother plant, such as size or color.
Disease Management
Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. is susceptible to several diseases such as leaf spots, smut, and rust. Leaf spots are caused by fungi and result in small, circular brown or black spots on the leaves. Smut is a fungal disease that forms black powdery spores on the plant, while rust infestation results in orange, powdery masses on the underside of leaves. To manage these diseases:
- Remove and dispose of infected plant material properly.
- Avoid overhead watering to prevent prolonged leaf wetness.
- Apply fungicides to control severe infestations.
Pest Management
Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf subsp. inermis Goetgh. is prone to pest infestations, notably by grasshoppers and stem borers. Grasshoppers feed on the plant's foliage and can cause severe damage by consuming large amounts of foliage, making it difficult for the plant to photosynthesize and mature. Stem borers, on the other hand, burrow into the plant's stems, disrupting nutrient flow and weakening the plant. To manage these pests:
- Use physical barriers to protect the plant from being eaten by pests.
- Monitor plant regularly for the presence of pests and apply insecticides only if required.
- Use biological control methods such as releasing beneficial insects to combat pests.
