Overview
Digitaria bulbosa Peter is a perennial plant belonging to the Poaceae family and widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of Asia, Africa, and Australia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Largeflower crabgrass, Purple crabgrass, and Hairy crabgrass.
Appearance
The Digitaria bulbosa Peter is a sprawling, tufted grass with stems that can grow up to 75 cm in length. The plant has a fibrous root system that forms thin rhizomes, and multiple stems emerge from a single clump. The leaves are flat and have a purplish tinge, and the plant flowers from August to October. The erect inflorescence of the plant measures 10 to 20cm and has several branches that carry spikelets.
Uses
Digitaria bulbosa Peter is used for erosion control and is also a significant source of forage for grazing livestock.
Light Requirements
Digitaria bulbosa prefers to grow in full sun, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In shaded areas, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Preferences
The plant is ideally suited to warm conditions with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 35°C. It can, however, tolerate temperatures ranging between 10°C to 40°C. During cold weather, the plant may experience growth retardation, and the leaves can turn yellow.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a variety of well-drained soils, including sand, loam, and clay. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Although it can tolerate various soil types, the plant may perform poorly in waterlogged soils or areas with high clay content.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria bulbosa Peter is a warm-season perennial grass that can be grown in a range of soils. It grows best in sandy or loamy soils that are well-draining to prevent water-logging. It also prefers full sun exposure, but it can tolerate partial shade. The plant can be propagated from seeds or by clump division.
Watering Needs
For optimal growth, Digitaria bulbosa Peter requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase. The soil should be kept moist but not water-logged to prevent root rotting. During hot spells, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent drought stress. Overwatering should be avoided, as it may lead to fungal infections.
Fertilization
Digitaria bulbosa Peter is a moderately heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to maintain its vigor. A slow-release balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 3:1:2 (N-P-K) and micronutrients should be applied in early spring and late summer. Nitrogen fertilizers should be avoided during late summer to prevent tender growth that can be damaged by frost.
Pruning
Digitaria bulbosa Peter requires minimal pruning, but deadheading and removing the spent flower stalks can promote continued blooming. To prevent seed formation, the plant should be pruned back to half of its height after flowering. The plant may also require occasional thinning to prevent overcrowding and improve air circulation around the foliage.
Propagation of Digitaria bulbosa Peter
Digitaria bulbosa Peter or hairy crabgrass is a perennial grass species that can reach up to 30 cm in height and is commonly found in warm climates. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Digitaria bulbosa through seeds is relatively easy. It is recommended to use fresh seeds for better germination rates. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil during spring or fall. The soil must be kept moist until the seedlings emerge, which can take up to two weeks. After the emergence of the seedlings, they should be thinned to avoid overcrowding.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Digitaria bulbosa through division can be done during early spring or fall. It involves dividing the plant's rhizomes or clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has an equal amount of roots and stems. The divided sections should be planted in well-draining soil, and the soil around them must be kept moist until they are established.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegatative propagation is another way to propagate Digitaria bulbosa. It involves taking stem cuttings from a healthy plant and rooting them in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be placed in a warm, bright location and kept moist until they develop roots, which can take up to three weeks. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or planted directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Digitaria bulbosa is susceptible to several diseases, including Rhizoctonia solani, Phytophthora infestans, and Fusarium oxysporum. To manage these diseases, it is essential to ensure proper plant hygiene practices. Farmers and gardeners should avoid planting infected plant material and rotate crops to prevent the build-up of soil-borne pathogens. Providing the plant with adequate nutrition and moisture can also help in preventing these diseases. In severe cases, chemical fungicides can be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions and advice from experts.
Pest Management
The most common pests affecting Digitaria bulbosa are armyworms, cutworms, aphids, and grasshoppers. These pests can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and even complete defoliation of the plant. To manage these pests, farmers and gardeners can employ several cultural practices, including handpicking, pruning, and crop rotation. The use of insecticidal soap and neem oil sprays can also help to control these pests. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and apply the spray during the early stages of infestation.
