Description of Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh.
Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. is a type of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is also commonly known as the hairy crabgrass or the tropical crabgrass.
Origin
The hairy crabgrass is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, Europe, North and South America.
Appearance
The hairy crabgrass is an annual, wiry, tufted grass that typically grows up to 30-60 cm tall. Its leaves are flat and tapered, measuring 2-15 cm long and 3-7 mm wide and have a distinct midrib. The hairs on the leaves and stem give it a rough texture and the inflorescence is a compact, finger-like panicle with green or purple spikelets.
Uses
The hairy crabgrass is generally considered a weed because it grows rapidly and can outcompete other desired plants. However, it is also an important food source for grazing animals and can be used for hay-making. Additionally, the grass contains medicinally active compounds that have been used in traditional medicine to treat inflammation, liver disorders, and abdominal pains.
hereLight Requirements
The plant Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. thrives well in full sunlight. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight exposure per day. It is not an ideal plant for shady places. Hence, it needs to be planted in an area where there is direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. needs warm temperatures between 20-35 degrees Celsius for optimum growth. It cannot withstand frost and cannot survive in temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
The plant Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. grows well in well-drained soil rich in humus. The plant prefers sandy soils with a pH range of 6-7.5. It is tolerant of infertile soils and can grow in a wide range of soil conditions. However, regular soil testing is recommended to ensure the soil has adequate nutrients for healthy growth.
Cultivation
Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh., commonly known as Wiregrass, is a warm-season grass that is native to Africa but can also be found in other continents such as Asia and Australia. It thrives in full sun areas and well-drained soils. The plant is easy to cultivate and propagate.
Watering Needs
Like most warm-season grasses, Wiregrass prefers infrequent deep watering rather than frequent light watering. The plant's water requirements increase during periods of drought. Therefore, it is essential to keep the soil moist but not water-logged to promote growth and enhance its overall health.
Fertilization
Wiregrass is not a heavy feeder; hence, fertilization isn't necessary. However, fertilizing the plant using a balanced fertilizer every spring and fall can help improve its growth and overall appearance. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of the planting area.
Pruning
Wiregrass requires little to no pruning or maintenance. However, it is best to mow the plant continuously to promote the production of new shoots and reduce weed competition. When using the mower, ensure that the blade length remains between 3-4 inches and set the mower's height depending on the desired plant height.
Propagation of Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh.
There are several methods of propagating Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. that can be used, both sexual and asexual.
Sexual propagation
The most common method of sexual propagation of Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. is by seeds. The plant produces numerous tiny seeds that can be collected from mature seed heads in late summer or early fall. These seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors in seed trays. The seedlings will germinate within 14 to 21 days, and can then be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Asexual propagation
Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. can also be propagated asexually by division. The plant forms clumps of grass-like stems and roots, which can be carefully divided in spring or early summer. The clump should be dug up and the individual stems separated using a sharp knife or spade. Each resulting division should have its own set of roots. The divided plant can then be replanted in a new location, either in the ground or in a container.
In addition, Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. can propagate asexually by stolons. Stolons are horizontal stems that grow above the soil surface and produce new roots and leaves at each node. To propagate by stolons, simply clip a healthy stem with nodes and plant it in fertile soil. Keep it well-watered and out of direct sunlight until it has taken root properly.
Disease Management
Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. is often affected by fungal diseases like Leaf spot and Rust. Leaf spot appears as small, circular spots on leaves, with grey or brownish edges. Rust appears as orange or yellow pustules on leaves. To manage fungal diseases, it is essential to keep the plant dry and provide good ventilation. Avoid overhead watering or watering at night. Remove infected plant parts, and if necessary, use a fungicide that is safe for the plant and the environment.
Pest Management
The most common pests that affect Digitaria appropinquata Goetgh. are grasshoppers, armyworms, and cutworms. Grasshoppers feed on leaves and can cause significant damage. Armyworms and cutworms feed on the stems of the plant and can damage the entire plant. To manage these pests, it is important to remove weeds near the plant and keep the area clean. You can control these pests by using insecticides recommended for the specific pest and safe for the plant and environment. Alternatively, you can use natural predators like birds and predatory insects to control these pests.