Origin
Digitaria buchananii Mez, also known as Buchanan's fingergrass, is a type of grass that is native to southern Africa. It is distributed throughout Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, and South Africa.
Common Names
Aside from Buchanan's fingergrass, the Digitaria buchananii is also referred to as African finger grass, elephant grass, Guinea grass, and Rhodes grass.
Appearance
The Digitaria buchananii Mez has a characteristic tall and tufted growth habit that can reach up to 2 meters tall. It has long, narrow, and green leaves that can grow up to 45 cm long with a few millimeters in width. The plant's inflorescence has spikelike panicles that appear purplish and can measure up to 35 cm long.
Uses
Buchanan's fingergrass is primarily used as a livestock feed because of its high protein content. The grass can also be utilized in soil conservation, land reclamation, and as an ornamental plant. Additionally, the plant has been used for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomach ailments and snakebites.
Light Requirements
Digitaria buchananii Mez is a plant species that does well in both full sun and partial shade. However, to ensure its proper growth and development, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight exposure every day. Therefore, positioning it in a location that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day is crucial.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria buchananii Mez is a warm-season plant that thrives in warm temperatures. It grows best in temperatures that range between 20-30°C. While it can tolerate a few cold snaps, it does not withstand frost. Thus, growing this plant in areas with average winter temperatures above -3°C is recommended.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria buchananii Mez prefers fertile, well-draining soils that are moist but not waterlogged. The ideal soil pH range for this plant species is between 5.5 and 7.5. It can grow in various soil types such as sandy, loamy, and clay soils. To enhance its growth and development, it is advisable to feed it with organic manure during the planting season.
Cultivation
Digitaria buchananii Mez is commonly known as "Buchanan's finger grass" and can be cultivated in well-draining soil and full sun. The plant prefers warm temperatures between 78-86°F (25-30°C) during the day and 68-77°F (20-25°C) at night. It is recommended to plant the seeds during the spring or summer, after the last frost, to promote healthy growth.
Watering Needs
Digitaria buchananii Mez needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. The plant should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out partially before watering again. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and reduce growth.
Fertilization
Digitaria buchananii Mez doesn't require much fertilization to grow. However, it can benefit from an annual application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the plants, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Digitaria buchananii Mez rarely needs pruning, as it is generally a low-maintenance plant. However, if any dead or diseased stems or leaves are noticed, they should be removed promptly. This will help prevent any potential disease spread and maintain the plant's overall health.
Propagation of Digitaria Buchananii Mez
Digitaria buchananii Mez, commonly known as African couch grass, is a resilient plant that can grow in various conditions. It is a perennial plant that can be propagated through two methods, which are division and seed germination.
Division Method
The division of Digitaria buchananii Mez is a straightforward method that can be done in early spring or autumn. The process involves digging out the mature plant and dividing the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and a shoot. The divided sections can be planted directly into the soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the plant is established.
Seed Germination Method
Digitaria buchananii Mez can also be propagated through seed germination. The seeds should be collected from a mature plant, and the best time to gather them is during autumn. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry area until they are ready to be planted.
Before planting the seeds, the soil should be prepared by removing any weeds and debris. The soil should also be well-drained. The seeds should be sown directly into the soil and covered lightly with soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not overly wet, until the seeds have germinated.
It is important to note that the seed germination for Digitaria buchananii Mez can be erratic, and some seeds may take longer to germinate than others. The plant may take up to a year to reach maturity, and it is recommended that the plant be protected from frost during its first winter.
Disease Management:
Digitaria buchananii Mez, also known as African couch grass, is susceptible to various diseases. The most common fungal diseases that affect this plant are leaf spot and crown rust. Leaf spot causes brown spots on leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced vigor. Crown rust causes orange-yellow pustules on leaves, and severe infestations can lead to stunted growth and reduced yields.
The best way to manage fungal diseases in Digitaria buchananii is to practice good sanitation measures, such as removing infected plant debris and cleaning pruning tools. Additionally, applying fungicides, such as copper-based products or systemic fungicides, can help control and prevent fungal diseases.
Pest Management:
Digitaria buchananii is also susceptible to various pests. The most common pests that affect this plant are nematodes, cutworms, and grasshoppers. Nematodes feed on the plant's roots, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields. Cutworms and grasshoppers feed on the leaves and stems, causing extensive damage.
The best way to manage pests in Digitaria buchananii is to use integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. These strategies include using natural predators, such as birds or beneficial insects, to control pests. Additionally, applying insecticides, such as neem oil or pyrethrin-based products, can help control and prevent pest infestations.
