Overview
Digitaria adscendens (Kunth) Henrard, also known as climbing finger grass or black grass, is a species of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.Appearance
Climbing finger grass is a perennial plant that grows up to 200 cm in height. It has a slender stem with nodes that give rise to wiry, climbing branches. The leaves are alternate, narrow, and measure up to 25 cm long and 3 mm wide. The inflorescence is a panicle that measures up to 30 cm long and contains small spikelets that are about 2 mm long.Common Names
In different regions of the world, this plant is known by various names, including: - Climbing finger grass - Black grass - Finger grass - Wire grass - Scrambling grassUses
Digitaria adscendens is used for various purposes in different parts of the world. In some African countries, the tender leaves and stems are consumed as a vegetable and used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, including diarrhea, fever, and dysentery. In India, the plant is used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating skin diseases, wounds, and snake bites. The roots and leaves of the plant are also used as fodder for livestock. Furthermore, this plant has potential benefits as a source of bioenergy due to its fast growth and high biomass production.Light Requirements
Digitaria adscendens prefers bright indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching and hamper growth. It is better to provide some shading during intense midday sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Digitaria adscendens is between 21-29 °C (70-85 °F). The plant is frost intolerant and cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C (50°F). It should be protected from cold drafts and kept in a warm place.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria adscendens can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A mix of sand and loam is an ideal growing medium. The soil pH must be between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil and can quickly develop root rot under such conditions.
Cultivation methods for Digitaria adscendens
Digitaria adscendens is a warm-season grass species that requires plenty of sunlight to grow. Therefore, it is best to grow the plant in a well-draining soil mixture, such as a combination of sand and loam soil. The plant can be grown from seed or vegetative propagation methods such as stem cuttings or division of the root ball.
Watering needs for Digitaria adscendens
This plant requires regular watering during its growing season. It is important to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can harm the plant. The frequency of watering should be decided based on the soil's moisture levels and the prevailing weather conditions.
Fertilization of Digitaria adscendens
Digitaria adscendens requires some fertilizer to maintain healthy growth. For best results, use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season regularly, based on the manufacturer's instructions. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can be used instead of chemical fertilizers.
Pruning of Digitaria adscendens
Digitaria adscendens requires minimal pruning. Dead or yellowing leaves can be removed from the plant to improve its aesthetic appearance. The plant also benefits from occasional thinning of the stems. Pruning should be done with clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Digitaria adscendens
Digitaria adscendens, also known as wiregrass or ascending finger grass, is a commonly occurring perennial grass species. The propagation methods of the plant involve:
Seed propagation
The plant produces seeds which can be used for propagation. When matured, the seed heads can be harvested and separated from the chaff. The seeds should be soaked in water overnight before sowing them in a well-prepared seedbed. The seedlings should emerge within a week, and once they attain a height of two or three inches, they can be transplanted to their permanent growing position.
Vegetative propagation
The plant can also be propagated from cuttings and division. The cutting should be taken from the healthy mother plant. The base of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a well-prepared soil. Alternatively, the plant may be divided by dividing the clumps of the plant. This should be done in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. The divided plant should be transplanted immediately.
Both seed and vegetative propagation methods can be used to propagate Digitaria adscendens. Regardless of the propagation method used, the plant requires regular watering and care for a successful growth. Additionally, it prefers full sun and a well-draining soil for best growth.
Disease Management
Digitaria adscendens can be affected by several fungal diseases, such as leaf spot, anthracnose, and rust. To manage leaf spot, growers should avoid overhead irrigation and ensure adequate spacing between plants to promote air flow. Fungicide applications may also be necessary. Anthracnose can be controlled through the use of resistant cultivars, proper nutrition, and fungicide applications. Rust can be managed by removing the infected plant parts and using fungicides.
Pest Management
Several pests may attack Digitaria adscendens, including armyworms, cutworms, and grasshoppers. To manage these pests, growers can use insecticides, trap crops, and other cultural practices, such as mowing and burning. Additionally, nematodes can also damage Digitaria adscendens. Growers should avoid planting infected material and rotate crops to manage nematode populations.
