Origin and Common Names
Digitaria alba Mez, also known as "White Fingergrass," is a plant species native to Africa, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a member of the Poaceae (grass) family, which comprises approximately 12,000 species globally.General Appearance
Digitaria alba Mez's physical characteristics include a creeping stem, which can grow up to 30cm tall, and flat, broad leaves that are about 20cm long and 1-2cm wide. The plant's panicle is a dense whitish or brownish cluster of spikelets, which can grow up to 20cm long and 2-3cm wide. The spikelets are composed of many small flowers, each with a single grass seed.Uses
White Fingergrass is an important forage crop because its leaves and stems have a high nutritional value for livestock and other domestic animals. Additionally, it is considered a weed by farmers in some regions because it grows rapidly and outcompetes other valuable plants in cultivated fields. In traditional medicine, Digitaria alba Mez is used to treat various ailments such as wounds, inflammation, and infertility. The plant's medicinal properties are attributed to its high content of alkaloids, tannins, and saponins. In some African communities, the plant is also used for cultural and religious purposes. For example, the seeds are sometimes used in divination rituals, and the plant is believed to have protective properties against evil spirits. Overall, Digitaria alba Mez is a versatile and useful plant with several ecological, economic, and cultural functions in African societies.hereLight Requirements
Digitaria alba Mez is a plant that requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It flourishes in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. In shady or partially shaded areas, the plant tends to become leggy and produce fewer flowers. Therefore, planting in an area with adequate sunlight is essential for the plant's growth and overall health.
Temperature and Climate
Digitaria alba Mez is a warm-season grass that thrives in hot weather conditions. The plant prefers a temperature range between 22°C to 30°C. It is drought-resistant, making it ideal for regions that experience long dry seasons. However, it is susceptible to frost damage and cannot withstand temperatures below -2°C. Therefore, it is best to plant the Digitaria alba Mez in regions with a warm, tropical climate.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria alba Mez can grow in different soil conditions, but it prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility. The plant thrives in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Before planting, ensure the soil is prepared by removing any weeds or rocks to create an adequate growing environment.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria alba Mez, commonly known as White Fonio, requires a warm and humid climate to grow well. It is mostly grown in tropical regions with high rainfall. The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, but it does best in well-drained sandy soils. Also, it grows well in areas with full sunlight exposure.
Watering Needs
Digitaria alba Mez requires consistent moisture to thrive. It is important to frequently water your plants especially during the dry season. But be careful not to overwater them since it can lead to root rot. Water the plants early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize moisture loss through evaporation.
Fertilization
White Fonio requires a balanced fertilizer to thrive. Before planting, it is essential to prepare the soil by adding organic matter. Additionally, apply NPK fertilizer in the ratio of 14:14:14 at the rate of 200kg/ha to provide essential nutrients for the plant's growth. You can also apply foliar feed fertilizer during the early growth stages of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Digitaria alba Mez. However, it is important to remove any dead or diseased leaves to prevent the spread of diseases. Also, make sure to control weeds around the plants to avoid competition for nutrients and water. You can eliminate weeds either by hand weeding or using herbicides.
Propagation of Digitaria alba Mez
Digitaria alba Mez can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation
Seeds are the primary means of sexual propagation for Digitaria alba Mez. The plant produces small, light brown seeds that are dispersed by wind or water. For best results, the seeds should be sown in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Germination can take up to three weeks and should be monitored regularly.
Asexual Propagation
Digitaria alba Mez can also be propagated asexually through tillering. The plant produces new tillers (stems) from the base of the plant. To propagate, simply divide the clump of stems and plant the separated tillers in well-draining soil. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
Disease Management
Digitaria alba Mez is susceptible to various diseases, including leaf spots, rust, and damping-off. Leaf spots are fungal diseases that cause dead spots on the leaves, which eventually lead to defoliation. Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow and red-orange rust-like spots on the leaves. Damping-off is a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots, causing them to rot and eventually leading to death.
The best way to manage leaf spots and rust is by practicing crop rotation and removing infected plant debris. Fungicides may also be used to control the spread of the diseases. Damping-off can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and using clean planting materials.
Pest Management
Digitaria alba Mez is prone to pest infestations that can lead to reduced yield and stunted growth. Common pests that affect the plant include grasshoppers, cutworms, and armyworms.
Grasshoppers can be controlled by plowing the soil and using insecticides such as carbaryl. Cutworms and armyworms can be controlled by the use of biological control agents such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or by using insecticides.
Regular monitoring of the crop is crucial to identify any pest infestation early and take the necessary control measures.
