Digitaria Acuminatissima Stapf

Overview

Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf, also known as the sharp fingergrass, is a type of grass native to the African continent. It belongs to the Poaceae family, which includes commonly known crops such as corn, wheat, and rice.

Appearance

The sharp fingergrass has thin, elongated leaves that are bluish-green in color and grow up to 30 cm long. The inflorescence is a panicle that stands up to 1 meter tall with slender branches that bear tiny spikelets. The spikelets are arranged in a linear fashion which is characteristic of the genus Digitaria.

Common Names

Digitaria acuminatissima is known by various names in different regions including sharp fingergrass, African couch grass, Congo grass, and East African fingergrass.

Uses

Due to its high nutritional value, Digitaria acuminatissima has been widely used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as diarrhea, stomach pains, and fever. Additionally, the grass is used as fodder for livestock because of its high protein content. It is also used for soil conservation, erosion control, and land reclamation due to its ability to grow rapidly and cover barren areas.

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Light

The plant Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf requires full sun exposure. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to grow properly. Lack of adequate sunlight can lead to stunted growth and poor development. Therefore, it is crucial to place the plant in a well-lit area or provide artificial light.

Temperature

Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf prefers warm temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. It is essential to keep the plant in a warm environment, and temperatures below 15°C can damage the plant's growth. During cold seasons, it is advisable to move the plant indoors to protect it from extreme temperatures.

Soil Requirements

The plant grows best in loamy soil that is well-draining. It requires soils that are fertile and high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. The plant also requires adequate moisture. It is recommended to water the plant regularly, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Applying an organic fertilizer once every two weeks can significantly boost the plant's growth and development.

Cultivation Methods

Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf, commonly known as the African cb-25 finger grass, prefers well-drained and moderately fertile soils. The plant can thrive well in sandy soils but requires adequate drainage. When planting, ensure the area is weed-free, and the soil is rich in nutrients to promote growth.

Watering Needs

Digitaria acuminatissima requires regular watering to maintain its lush green foliage and to prevent wilting. Water deeply, but avoid saturating the soil. The plant prefers moderate moisture levels, and overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.

Fertilization

Fertilize Digitaria acuminatissima with organic or inorganic fertilizers. Apply the fertilizer during the planting season to provide the required nutrients. A nitrogen-rich fertilizer promotes leaf and stem growth.

Pruning

Pruning is essential to maintain Digitaria acuminatissima's desired shape and size. Use a clean and sharp pruning tool to cut the grass to the desired level. Prune the plant regularly to remove dead and damaged foliage and to promote the growth of new healthy stems and leaves.

Propagation of Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf

The plant Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf can be propagated through seed germination and vegetative propagation.

Seed Germination

The seeds of Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf can be sown directly into the soil during the rainy season. The seeds require sufficient moisture to germinate, and the use of mulch can help to retain moisture in the soil. The seeds will germinate within two weeks after sowing, and the plants will mature within six months.

Vegetative Propagation

Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf can also be propagated through vegetative means such as stem cuttings and root division. Stem cuttings can be taken from mature plants, and they should be at least six inches long. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. Root division can be done in the spring by dividing the roots of mature plants and replanting them in a suitable location.

Overall, both seed germination and vegetative propagation are effective propagation methods for Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf, and each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

Disease Management

Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf is susceptible to various fungal diseases that cause brown patch, dollar spot, and Pythium blight. Brown patch fungus causes brown patches on the leaves and stems of the plant. Dollar spot fungus causes small, circular patches on the leaves and stems, while Pythium blight fungus causes wilting and death of the plant. To manage these fungal diseases, avoid excessive watering and improve drainage. Remove and destroy infected plants and apply fungicides containing chlorothalonil or propiconazole.

Pest Management

Digitaria acuminatissima Stapf is also susceptible to various pests such as armyworms, cutworms, and white grubs. Armyworms and cutworms feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, while white grubs feed on the roots, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage these pests, practice good cultural techniques such as crop rotation and proper irrigation. Use biological control methods such as introducing natural predators like birds and predatory insects. In severe cases, apply insecticides containing carbaryl or imidacloprid.