Origin and Common Names
Digitaria barbinodis Henrard, commonly known as African crabgrass or smooth crabgrass, is a warm-season annual grass that is native to Africa. It has also been naturalized in other parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, Europe, South America, and North America. The species name "barbinodis" refers to the bearded nodes along the stem of the grass.
Appearance
African crabgrass typically grows in a clump with a single or few stems, reaching heights between 30-70 cm. Its leaf blades are flat, narrow, and can grow up to 15 cm in length. The grass flowers in early summer with spikelets arranged in a digitate, or finger-like, pattern along the stem. The spikelets are oval-shaped and brownish in color, and there are usually two to three flowers per spikelet. The root system consists of a fibrous, shallow root that allows the grass to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Uses
African crabgrass has various uses, including being used as fodder for livestock and as a soil stabilizer. It is also used for erosion control and in lawn seed mixtures due to its ability to withstand low-maintenance conditions. Additionally, the grass is a good source of food for birds and small mammals. Some cultures also use the grass in traditional medicine for its various medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
Digitaria barbinodis Henrard thrives in full sun or partial shade. This plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Indoor growing may require fluorescent lighting, which should be placed 6 inches above the seedlings, for 12-16 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. The optimum temperature range for this plant is between 70 and 85°F (21 and 29°C). However, it can also grow in temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C) under certain conditions.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Digitaria barbinodis Henrard should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Sandy loam, loam, and silt loam soils are optimal for this plant. Waterlogged soil should be avoided. This plant also grows well in pots using a peat-based or well-draining soil mix.
Cultivation methods
Digitaria barbinodis Henrard is a warm-season grass that can be propagated through seed or vegetatively. For seed propagation, the best time to sow is in spring when soil temperature reaches about 15°C. The seeds should be sown to a depth of about 5 mm. For vegetative propagation, the grass can be divided in spring, and each division should contain a root system and several shoots. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Watering needs
Digitaria barbinodis Henrard requires regular watering, particularly during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The best time to water is early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry before the evening.
Fertilization
The grass benefits from regular fertilization to maintain its vigor and health. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every six weeks during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions and water thoroughly after application.
Pruning
Digitaria barbinodis Henrard requires minimal pruning. However, it is advisable to remove any dead or damaged foliage regularly. The grass should also be mowed regularly to maintain a suitable height of around 10 to 15 cm. Avoid mowing too low as this can damage the crown of the grass and reduce its vigor.
Propagation of Digitaria barbinodis Henrard
Propagation of Digitaria barbinodis Henrard can be efficiently accomplished through the vegetative and sexual methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Digitaria barbinodis Henrard can be propagated through the vegetative parts like rhizomes, stolons, and tillers. Rhizomes are underground stems that emerge from the main culm, while stolons are lateral stems that develop from the base of the mother plant. Tillers are new shoots that grow from the parent plant's nodes.
By switching to vegetative propagation, the quality and yield of the new plants can be maintained since they are genetically identical to the parent plants. In commercial plantations, the vegetative propagation of Digitaria barbinodis Henrard is often done through tillers.
Sexual Propagation
Propagation of Digitaria barbinodis Henrard through seeds is the sexual method. Seeds are produced after the flowers have been pollinated and matured, and the seeds can be used to grow new plants. The period for seed setting of Digitaria barbinodis Henrard varies at different times and locations, depending upon temperature, sunshine, and moisture.
Since the species is cross-pollinated, berry seed-setting types are popular because they avoid pollination from undesirable varieties. The germination of the Digitaria barbinodis Henrard seed is helpful in preserving its genetic integrity and increasing seed yields.
Disease Management
Digitaria barbinodis Henrard is susceptible to various diseases including fungal leaf spots, rust, smut, and root rot. Preventative measures such as maintaining good plant health and avoiding over-watering can help minimize the incidence and severity of disease. In the event that the plant becomes infected, timely identification and appropriate treatment with fungicides or other disease control measures can help manage the disease.
Pest Management
The plant may also suffer from various pests such as aphids, mites, and caterpillars which can cause significant damage to the foliage. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can effectively manage these pests. It is essential to carefully follow the instructions on the label when using any insecticides and to avoid applying the product during periods of high heat or humidity. Regularly inspecting plants for the presence of pests and taking immediate action to control them can prevent further spread and damage.
