Origin and Common Names
Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara, also known as Golden-eye-grass, is a species of grass native to Africa, southern Asia, and parts of Australia. It can be found in a wide range of habitats, including forest margins, grasslands, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 30-60 cm in height and has short, erect stems. It has dark green leaves that are about 1-2 cm wide, with a prominent midrib. Its flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems and are yellow-green or sometimes purplish. The seeds of the plant are small and rounded, measuring about 1-2 mm in diameter.
Uses
Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara is commonly used for forage and fodder in parts of Africa and Asia. It is known to be drought-resistant and tolerant to grazing, making it a valuable resource for livestock feed during periods of low rainfall. The grass is also used for erosion control and land rehabilitation purposes. In traditional medicine, the plant extracts are used for treating various ailments such as wounds, fever, and gastric disorders. Its seeds are edible and have been used as a source of food in some regions.
Light Requirements
Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara thrives in areas with plenty of sunlight exposure. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara is known to grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, it thrives in warm temperature conditions, between 20°C and 32°C. The plant can tolerate occasional fluctuations in temperature, but long periods of extreme heat or cold can negatively affect its growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils. However, it grows best in soils with good water retention capabilities. Adequate soil moisture is crucial for the germination and growth of Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria cilliaris (Retz.) Koeler var. chrysoblephara (Fig. & De Not.) Stewart grows well in sandy and loamy soils and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can be cultivated through seeds or vegetative propagation. Its seeds are sown in spring or summer in well-prepared fields with adequate moisture.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, and it is advisable to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. A watering frequency of once or twice a week is enough. However, during hot and dry summer spells, daily watering is necessary.
Fertilization
The retention and availability of nutrients in poor soil determines plant's growth and productivity. This species responds well to soil nutrition, therefore to maintain its growth and vitality, fertilizer should be applied appropriately. 100-70-70 kg/ha of N-P-K fertilizer application is ideal at 45 days after planting.
Pruning
Digitaria cilliaris (Retz.) Koeler var. chrysoblephara (Fig. & De Not.) Stewart responds well to pruning, as it encourages the growth of new shoots. To prune, cut the top 50% of the plant down to about 6-8 cm. Regular pruning every 6-8 weeks is helpful to control their height and keep them dense and compact.
Propagation of Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara
Propagation is the process of multiplying plants. The propagation of Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara can be achieved using various methods:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common way of propagating Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil or planted in pots and then transplanted. The best time to sow the seeds is during the rainy season. The soil should be moist, and the seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm. Germination usually occurs within two weeks.
Divisions
Another method of propagation is by dividing the plant. This method involves separating the plant into smaller pieces and then transplanting them. It is best to do this during the growing season, and the plant should be watered well before dividing it to reduce stress. The new plants should be watered regularly until they are established.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way of propagating Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara. This method involves taking a stem cutting from a mature plant and then planting it in the soil. The cutting should be 10-15 cm long and should be taken from the tip of the stem. The cutting should be planted in a pot filled with moist soil, and it should be watered regularly until it has established roots.
Disease Management:
Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara is susceptible to foliar diseases like leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be controlled by using fungicides. Fungicides such as triazole, strobilurin, and DMI can be effective in controlling these diseases. Use of resistant cultivars and crop rotation can also help in the control of these diseases. The use of good cultural practices such as sanitation and removal of plant debris can also be effective in preventing the diseases from occurring.
Pest Management:
Digitaria cilliaris var. chrysoblephara is vulnerable to the attack of various pests including armyworms, cutworms, aphids, and mites. The use of insecticides can be effective in controlling these pests. Insecticides with active ingredients such as carbaryl, permethrin, and spinosad can be effective in controlling these pests. The use of biological controls such as parasitic wasps and lady beetles can also be effective in controlling pests. Proper sanitation and timely removal of weeds can help prevent pests from attacking the plants.