Overview: Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken is a type of perennial weed species that belongs to the Poaceae family. This grass is native to tropical and warm regions across various continents, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America. This plant is commonly known by several names, such as Broadleaf crabgrass, Hinge fingergrass or Summer grass.
General Appearance
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken grows to about 50cm tall, and it has spreading stems that can reach up to 1.5 meters long. Its leaves are green, narrow with a broad base and sharp-pointed at the top. The plant bears unique flower spikes that have two branches that resemble fingers, giving it a distinctive appearance. Each spike produces many small seeds that usually germinate when the weather is warm.
Uses
In traditional medicine, Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken is used to treat various ailments, including inflammation, fever, and difficult urination. However, there has been little scientific research to support these claims. The plant is also used in lawn grass mixtures as it is tolerant of heat and drought conditions.
Unfortunately, this weed is problematic to turf grass in lawns and golf courses because of its aggressive nature, which allows it to crowd out desirable vegetation. As a result, it is considered a weed. However, some farmers may find it useful as animal fodder due to the plant's high nutritional value.
Light Requirements:
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken generally prefers full sun exposure to partial shade. In areas with high temperatures, a little shade can be beneficial. The plant can tolerate different light intensities, but optimal growth occurs under full sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements:
The optimal temperature range for Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken growth is 25-35°C. The plant can tolerate high temperatures and is commonly found in regions with hot and dry climates. However, the plant does not survive low temperatures and is not suitable for cultivation in frost-prone areas.
Soil Requirements:
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant can tolerate a variety of soils, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils. However, the plant grows best in fertile soils enriched with organic matter. The recommended soil depth for cultivation is at least 30 cm. The plant's roots are shallow, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to avoid damage to the roots.
Cultivation
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken grows best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It thrives well in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can be propagated by seed or vegetative means.
Watering Needs
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken requires moderate watering. It is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods of waterlogging. It is important to ensure that drainage is good to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken responds well to balanced fertilizer applications. It is important to apply fertilizers during the active growing season for optimum results.
Pruning
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken does not require regular pruning. However, removing dead or diseased foliage can promote new growth. It is also advisable to remove seed heads to prevent self-seeding and invasiveness.
Propagation of Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken
Propagation is an essential aspect of developing a healthy and thriving population of Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken. Here are the different methods used for propagating this plant:
Seed Propagation
Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken can be propagated through seeds. To gather seeds, allow the plant to grow till it starts flowering. Collect the seed heads and store them properly. If needed, stratify the seeds before sowing them in the spring. Plant the seeds in soil, and ensure that the environment remains moist until the seeds germinate and sprout.
Vegetative Propagation
Another method for propagating Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken is through vegetative propagation. This process involves taking cuttings or dividing the plant. It is a fast and easy method of multiplying the plant. To accomplish this, dig up a clump of plant and divide it into sections. You can either replant the sections or propagate them directly in the desired spot. Alternatively, take a cutting of the plant in the spring or summer and plant it in damp soil, ensuring it remains moist until it takes root.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Tissue culture propagation is a modern technique for propagating Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken. This method utilizes small parts of the plant to produce larger numbers of plants. The process involves taking a small portion of the plant and placing it in a sterilized environment and providing it with the necessary nutrients for growth. The new plants are then transplanted into soil.
With proper propagation techniques, it is possible to develop a large and flourishing population of Digitaria bidactyla Van der Veken.
Disease management
Digitaria bidactyla, commonly known as "smutgrass," is susceptible to several fungal diseases. These include:
- Leaf spot: characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves, which can rapidly spread and result in defoliation
- Rust: causes orange or yellowish-brown pustules on the leaves and stems, eventually leading to stunted growth
- Smuts: result in black, powdery masses on the seed heads, reducing seed production and quality
To manage these diseases, it's essential to maintain proper plant hygiene. This involves removing and destroying infected plant material, avoiding overhead watering, and promoting good air circulation through thinning and pruning. Fungicides can also be used as preventive or curative measures, depending on the severity of the disease.
Pest management
Several pests can attack Digitaria bidactyla, including:
- Mites: tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing a stippled appearance
- Armyworms: caterpillars that can rapidly defoliate the plant, leaving only bare stems behind
- Grasshoppers: can cause similar damage to armyworms, consuming large amounts of foliage
To manage these pests, several tactics can be used. Natural enemies, such as parasitic wasps and predator insects, can be encouraged to prey on the pests, while physical barriers, such as nets and row covers, can be used to exclude them from the plants. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used as a safer alternative to chemical pesticides to control the pests.
