Description of Digitaria angolensis auct.
Digitaria angolensis auct. is a perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as Angola grass and is native to Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
General Appearance
The Angola grass can grow up to 1 meter tall and usually forms dense clumps that spread through creeping stolons. The leaves are quite narrow, usually ranging from 3 to 20 cm long and 1 to 6 mm wide. The inflorescence is a panicle, which is composed of several branches. Each branch bears numerous spikelets that are 2 to 3 mm long.
Common Uses
The Angola grass has widespread use in Africa as a forage crop for livestock. It is well known for its ability to grow in poor soils and withstand drought conditions. The grass is also used in soil conservation, erosion control, and land reclamation projects. In addition, some traditional African communities use the grass for medicinal purposes, particularly to treat sore throats, wounds, and respiratory infections.
Light Requirements
Digitaria angolensis auct. thrives in full sunlight and prefers an open area with minimal shade. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight every day for optimum growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Digitaria angolensis auct. is between 20-30°C. It can withstand high temperatures of up to 40°C. Temperatures below 15°C can stunt its growth and affect its metabolism.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria angolensis auct. requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil textures ranging from sand to clay loam. However, it performs best in soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5.
In terms of soil fertility, Digitaria angolensis auct. requires reasonable levels of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. Adequate soil fertility ensures strong plant growth and development.
Cultivation of Digitaria angolensis auct.
Digitaria angolensis auct. is a hardy, perennial grass that is well-suited for cultivation in a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for successful cultivation.
Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering, as it can tolerate periods of both drought and wetness. It is important to water thoroughly but not too frequently, as over-watering can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done annually using a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This will help to maintain healthy growth and produce a good crop of seeds.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for this plant, but removal of dead, damaged, or diseased leaves and stems can help to promote healthy growth and prevent disease.
Propagation of Digitaria angolensis
Digitaria angolensis, commonly known as Angola grass, is a perennial grass that can be propagated by seeds and vegetative means.
Propagation by seeds
The most common method of propagating Digitaria angolensis is through seeds. The plant produces seeds abundantly, which are dispersed by wind and animals. The seeds should be collected when they are ripe, which is indicated by their turning brown in color. In general, they should be sown in the spring in an area with well-draining soil. They should be sown at a depth of about ¼ inch from the surface, and lightly covered with soil. It is essential to maintain even moisture for proper germination.
Propagation by vegetative means
Another method of propagating Digitaria angolensis is by vegetative means. This can be done by root division or through stem cuttings. Root division involves digging up the plant and dividing the clumps into smaller sections, making sure that each clump has healthy root and stem portions. These sections can then be replanted in a new location or container.
Stem cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the active growing season. Select healthy stems and cut them into 4-6 inch sections, making sure to include at least one node. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cuttings in well-draining soil, keeping them moist until rooting has occurred.
Propagation of Digitaria angolensis can be easy and rewarding using either of the described methods. Proper care and maintenance of the plant in its new location will encourage healthy growth and multiplication.
Disease management for Digitaria angolensis auct.
Digitaria angolensis is generally a healthy plant that does not suffer from many diseases. However, some diseases may affect the plant which includes; leaf spot, root rot, and rusts. These diseases can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and eventual death of the plant.
The following are some management practices:
- Practice crop rotation to avoid the build-up of soil-borne pathogens.
- Avoid excessive use of fertilizers since they can lead to the development of fungal infections.
- Prune affected leaves and discard.
- Use fungicides to control the spread of fungal diseases.
Pest management for Digitaria angolensis auct.
Digitaria angolensis is not commonly attacked by pests. However, some pests that can affect the plant include; grasshoppers, aphids, and spider mites.
The following are some control measures:
- Handpick and remove visible insects from the plant.
- Introduce predators such as ladybugs that can help control the population of pests.
- Use pesticides but with caution since they can also kill beneficial insects and cause environmental pollution.
