Origin
Digitaria adscendens (Kunth) Henrard var. nubica (Stapf) Henrard is a grass species that originated from the African continent.
Common Names
The grass species is known by various common names depending on the region. The common names include African Crabgrass, Top Grass, and Couch Grass.
Uses
Digitaria adscendens (Kunth) Henrard var. nubica (Stapf) Henrard is a highly nutritious grass species that is used as livestock fodder in different parts of Africa. The grass species is also used for soil conservation, as it helps prevent soil erosion. Additionally, the medicinal properties of the grass species have been known to treat various diseases, including diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory disorders.
General Appearance
Digitaria adscendens (Kunth) Henrard var. nubica (Stapf) Henrard is a weed-like grass species that can grow up to one meter tall. The leaves of the grass species are slender and can measure up to 20cm long and 5mm wide. The grass species has spike-like inflorescences that can grow up to 15cm in length. The inflorescences have short branches, and each branch can hold a few spikelets. The seeds of the grass species are thin, numerous, and have an oval shape.
Light Requirements
Digitaria adscendens var. nubica is a sun-loving plant and requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate some shade, but growth will be stunted in shady conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures and can withstand high heat. However, it cannot tolerate frost and grows best in regions with a frost-free growing season. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20°C and 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria adscendens var. nubica prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the plant does not grow well in waterlogged or poorly drained soils.
Cultivation methods
Digitaria adscendens (Kunth) Henrard var. nubica (Stapf) Henrard grows well in tropical and subtropical regions with temperatures between 20°C to 35°C. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate low soil fertility levels. The plant can be propagated using seeds or stem cuttings planted at a spacing of 20 cm apart.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during dry periods. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Digitaria adscendens (Kunth) Henrard var. nubica (Stapf) Henrard benefits from regular fertilization, especially with nitrogen and phosphorus-based fertilizers, which promote green and healthy growth. Fertilization should be done every two to three months for best results.
Pruning
The plant does not require frequent pruning, but occasional trimming of dead or diseased leaves and stems is necessary to maintain the plant's health and appearance. Pruning should be done during the growing season to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Digitaria adscendens var. nubica
Digitaria adscendens (Kunth) Henrard var. nubica (Stapf) Henrard is a perennial grass species that forms a dense tuft. It is commonly propagated through seeds and vegetative propagation.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Digitaria adscendens var. nubica are usually collected from mature plants during the dry season when the seeds have ripened. The harvested seeds are then dried and stored until the next planting season. To propagate the plant using seeds, the seeds are sown at a depth of 1 to 2 cm in well-prepared soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate in about 7 to 14 days. The newly established seedlings should be irrigated regularly and kept free from weeds until they are established.
Vegetative Propagation
Digitaria adscendens var. nubica can also be propagated vegetatively using stem cuttings or rhizomes. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the growing season and should be at least 10 cm long with several nodes. The cuttings are then planted in well-prepared soil and kept moist until they establish roots. Rhizomes, on the other hand, can be dug up from established plants and replanted in new locations. The newly established plants should be watered regularly and kept free from weeds until they are established.
Overall, the propagation of Digitaria adscendens var. nubica can be done through either seed or vegetative propagation methods, both of which can be successful when done correctly.
Disease Management:
Digitaria adscendens var. nubica is susceptible to several diseases, including leaf spot, rust, and smut. To prevent these diseases, regular checking and timely detection are crucial. If detected, the infected portion should be removed immediately, and the plant should be treated with fungicides as per label instructions. The cultural management practice includes maintaining proper plant spacing, adequate irrigation, and proper drainage to prevent waterlogging as excessive moisture can lead to fungal growth.
Pest Management:
The common pests that attack Digitaria adscendens var. nubica include cutworms, armyworms, leafhoppers, and aphids. Using insect-resistant cultivars, crop rotation, and intercropping with insect-repellent crops such as marigold can help control these pests. The use of biological control agents such as parasitoids and predators is another effective method of pest management. Chemical insecticides should be used as a last resort to minimize harm to the environment and non-target organisms. It is essential to follow the recommended label instructions while using pesticides.
