Origin
Digitaria commutata (Schult.) Schult. subsp. nodosa (Parl.) Maire is a perennial grass that is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is commonly found in open grasslands, meadows, and disturbed sites.
Common Names
The common names for Digitaria commutata (Schult.) Schult. subsp. nodosa (Parl.) Maire depends on its geographic location. It is commonly referred to as fall witchgrass, hairy crabgrass, and nodding crabgrass in North America, while it is known as nodding fingergrass or hairy fingergrass in Europe.
Uses
Digitaria commutata (Schult.) Schult. subsp. nodosa (Parl.) Maire is utilized as forage for livestock. It has also been traditionally used in the treatment of several ailments such as constipation, malarial fever, and bronchitis. The seeds of the plant are edible and can be used in the production of porridge and baked goods.
General Appearance
Digitaria commutata (Schult.) Schult. subsp. nodosa (Parl.) Maire is a sprawling grass that can grow up to 40 inches in height. It has a deep root system, which allows it to persist through droughts. The leaves are narrow and can vary in length from 3 to 10 inches. The seedheads are green and hairy, with nodding spikes that can grow up to 7 inches long.
hereLight Requirements
Digitaria commutata subsp. nodosa prefers full sun to partial shade conditions for proper growth and development. The plant can tolerate shaded conditions, but it may result in lower growth rates and smaller leaves. For optimum growth and flowering, it is essential to expose the plant to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Digitaria commutata subsp. nodosa is between 20°C and 30°C. However, the plant can tolerate higher temperatures up to 40°C but may require frequent watering. The plant can survive in mild winter conditions, but it is not resistant to frost. Therefore, it is essential to avoid exposing the plant to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils with medium to high fertility levels. It can grow in different soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and loamy soils. However, the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions, and as such, soils with poor drainage should be avoided. A pH range of 5.5-7.5 is ideal for the growth of Digitaria commutata subsp. nodosa. It is essential to maintain soil moisture levels, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages of growth.
Cultivation
Digitaria commutata (Schult.) Schult. subsp. nodosa (Parl.) Maire, commonly known as switchgrass, is a warm-season perennial grass that can grow up to 6 feet tall. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in a wide range of soil conditions, from sandy to clay soils.
The best time to plant switchgrass is in the early spring when the soil temperature is around 60°F. It can be planted by seeding or through vegetative propagation. If planting by seed, it is recommended to mix the seed with a carrier, like sand or fertilizer, to ensure even distribution. If planting through vegetative propagation, plant the root cuttings about 3 inches deep in the soil.
Watering Needs
Switchgrass is drought-tolerant once established. Watering is only required during the establishment period and during prolonged periods of drought. It is important to water deeply and infrequently to encourage the roots to grow deeper into the soil.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for switchgrass, but it can help stimulate growth and increase production. A soil test can determine if any specific nutrients are lacking in the soil. If fertilization is desired, it is recommended to use a slow-release nitrogen-based fertilizer in the spring.
Pruning
Switchgrass does not require regular pruning. However, if it starts to look unattractive or if dead or damaged stems are present, it is acceptable to cut back the plant to 6-8 inches above the soil in late winter or early spring. This will encourage new growth and maintain the overall health and appearance of the plant.
Propagation of Digitaria commutata (Schult.) Schult. subsp. nodosa (Parl.) Maire
Digitaria commutata (Schult.) Schult. subsp. nodosa (Parl.) Maire is commonly known as the tropical crabgrass, and it is a widespread plant species that is propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The tropical crabgrass can be propagated through seed, which can be easily collected during the germination period. The germination period for the seeds is usually during spring and early summer. The seeds can be collected and dried before planting either manually or by using various equipment such as a combine harvester. The seeds should be sown during the rainy season or early spring to provide enough moisture for germination. Seed propagation is ideal for large-scale planting.
DIVISION Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the clumps of the plant carefully using a sharp knife or shovel, ensuring that each segment has enough roots and foliage to survive. This method is ideal for mature plants that have produced numerous clumps or for plants with an extensive root system.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking cuttings of the plant's stem, usually during the plant's active growth period. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants that do not have any pest or disease damage. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil in a warm and humid environment. This method is ideal for establishing new plants quickly.
SOD Propagation
The tropical crabgrass can also be propagated by sod. This method involves cutting a thin layer of grass with roots and soil attached and transplanting it onto a prepared site with a well-draining soil. The soil should be thoroughly watered after sodding to ensure that the roots are well-established.
Disease Management
Digitaria commutata subsp. nodosa may be vulnerable to fungal infections such as leaf spot, rust, and smut diseases. The most common symptom of leaf spot disease is the appearance of small, dark spots on the leaves. Rust disease appears as small, yellow, or orange pustules on the foliage. On the other hand, smut disease causes the infected plants to develop black, powdery masses on the flowers and seeds.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to maintain proper plant hygiene by removing and disposing of affected plant parts. Additionally, avoid wetting the foliage and allow adequate air circulation around plants to minimize disease spread. Fungicides may be used as a last resort if the situation worsens.
Pest Management
Different types of pests may infest Digitaria commutata subsp. nodosa, including mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. Mites cause the plant leaves to curl and turn yellow, while aphids stunt plant growth and consume the sap of the plant. Leafhoppers, meanwhile, cause damage by feeding on plant sap, leaving behind small white dots on the foliage.
Integrated pest management practices may be used to control pests, including removing infested plant parts and using predatory organisms to control pest populations. Pesticides should only be used as a last resort when other methods have failed. Observation and quick action in response to the presence of pests can be beneficial in pest management.
