Origin
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. is an annual grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It can be found in the northern regions of Ethiopia, specifically in the Tigray and Amhara regions.
Common Names
Digitaria bovonei is commonly known as "Bovone's finger grass" in English, "Teft" in Amharic, and "Rixti" in Tigrigna.
Uses
The seeds of Digitaria bovonei are commonly used to make flour for bread and porridge in Ethiopia, where it is an important food crop for people and livestock. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomachaches and skin diseases.
General Appearance
Digitaria bovonei is a densely tufted grass that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has long and narrow leaves that are about 10 cm in length. The flowers are arranged in compact, finger-like spikes that are about 3-8 cm long. The seeds are rounded and covered in short hairs, which help the plant to spread and disperse.
Light Requirements
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Inadequate sunlight can lead to stunted growth and poor flower production.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Digitaria bovonei Chiov. is between 18°C and 28°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost and low temperatures, and it requires warm temperatures to thrive. Temperatures below 10°C can damage the plant's leaves and stems.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant grows well in sandy, silty, and loamy soils. It can tolerate soils with low fertility levels but performs best in soils rich in organic matter. The plant does not tolerate water-logged soils and requires adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. thrives in areas with well-draining soils, and it is best cultivated during the rainy season. Before planting, the soil should be tilled and cleared of any debris. The seeds should then be planted at a shallow depth of 1-2cm and covered with a thin layer of soil. The area should be watered regularly until the seedlings emerge.
Watering Needs
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. requires consistent watering to thrive. The plant should be watered at least twice a week, or more during periods of drought. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excess water can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Compost or organic fertilizers can be used to nourish Digitaria bovonei Chiov. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the plant in small quantities once every three months. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize as this can damage the plant’s roots.
Pruning
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. does not require regular pruning. However, if the plant becomes too tall, it can be cut back to encourage the growth of new shoots. Pruning can also help to promote a fuller and bushier appearance.
Propagation of Digitaria Bovonei Chiov.
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The plant can be grown from seeds, which are easily collected when the inflorescence turns brown. The seeds should be sown in the early spring in a pot or directly in a well-prepared garden bed with a depth of 0.5 to 1 cm. The optimal temperature for germination is between 20 and 25°C.
Asexual Propagation
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. can also be propagated asexually through vegetative means such as stem cuttings and root division.
Stem cuttings should be taken from young and vigorous shoots during the growing season and should be approximately 10 to 15 cm long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be rooted in moist, well-draining soil or a rooting hormone. The cutting should be watered regularly until roots have formed and new growth appears.
Root division should be done during the dormant period. The plant should be carefully removed from the ground, and the roots should be divided into sections, each containing one or more buds. The sections should be replanted, and the plant should be watered regularly until new growth appears.
Regardless of the propagation method used, care should be taken to ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and provided with adequate water and light.
Disease Management
Digitaria bovonei Chiov. is susceptible to a variety of fungal diseases such as leaf spot, rust, and smut. These diseases can cause significant damage to the plant and reduce yield.
To prevent fungal diseases, it is essential to practice good crop management. This includes keeping the field clean and weed-free, maintaining proper irrigation, and avoiding waterlogging. Additionally, the use of disease-resistant varieties and foliar fungicides can help control fungal infections.
Pest Management
Some of the pests that can affect Digitaria bovonei Chiov. are armyworms, cutworms, and aphids. These pests can cause significant damage to the crop, leading to reduced yield and plant death.
Integrated pest management is an effective approach to control pests in the field. This includes crop rotation, use of physical barriers, release of beneficial insects, and the use of chemical pesticides. It is important to monitor the field regularly and apply treatments as needed.
To control armyworms and cutworms, it is essential to use chemical pesticides. In the case of aphids, a mix of water, soap, and oil can be used to control small infestations.
It is important to use pesticides judiciously, following the instructions on the label, to avoid environmental and human health risks.
