Origin of Digitaria decipiens
Digitaria decipiens Fig. & De Not. is a species of grass that is native to southern Europe and northern Africa, particularly in Italy, Greece, and Tunisia.
Common Names of Digitaria decipiens
Digitaria decipiens has various common names depending on the region. In Italy, it is called "erba cannuccia," while in Greece, it is known as "chorto tromarou." In Tunisia, it is called "zoualchih."
Uses of Digitaria decipiens
Digitaria decipiens is commonly used as a forage plant for livestock. It is also used for soil stabilization and erosion control due to its strong root system. Additionally, it is sometimes used as an ornamental grass in landscaping.
General Appearance of Digitaria decipiens
Digitaria decipiens is a perennial grass that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has thin, wiry stems and long, narrow leaves that are between 5-15 cm in length. The flowers are small and green, and are arranged in spikes that are 5-10 cm long. The plant blooms from June to September and produces small seeds that are 2 mm in size.
Light Requirements
Digitaria decipiens Fig. & De Not. thrives best in full sunlight conditions. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight every day is vital for the growth and development of the plant. Insufficient exposure to sunlight results in stunted growth, pale coloration, and weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperature conditions ranging between 25°C to 30°C during the growing season. Growth is optimal when temperatures are elevated, and humidity is high. However, the plant is relatively tolerant to a wide range of temperatures and can still grow in temperatures as low as 10°C.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria decipiens Fig. & De Not. grows well in a well-draining fertile soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil must be nutrient-rich, aerated, and able to hold moisture to provide sufficient nutrients and water to the plant's roots. Excessively compacted or dry soil hinders root development, leading to slow growth and the production of fewer leaves. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil can improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation of Digitaria Decipiens Fig. & De Not.
Digitaria decipiens Fig. & De Not. thrives in warm and moist conditions. The plant grows well in loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Planting should be done during the rainy season when the soil is moist to enable the development of a good root system. The plant needs full sunlight to grow dense foliage.
Watering Needs
The plant requires enough water to maintain moist soil. It would be best to water Digitaria decipiens Fig. & De Not. frequently but avoid overwatering as it could lead to root rot. The frequency and amount of water needed vary depending on the climatic conditions in your area.
Fertilization
To achieve optimal growth, it is recommended to fertilize Digitaria decipiens Fig. & De Not. at least twice a year with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizing should be done at the onset of the rainy season and at mid-summer when growth is at its peak. Mix the fertilizer with water and apply it to the soil around the plant.
Pruning
Pruning can be done to maintain the plant's shape and promote air circulation. The best time to prune is during the dry season after the plant has finished flowering. You should remove the dead and damaged stems and branches. If the plant becomes too big, trim it back to maintain its desired size.
Propagation of Digitaria decipiens
There are two primary methods for propagating Digitaria decipiens. These include propagation through seed and through division.
Propagation through seed
The seeds of Digitaria decipiens should be sown in the spring. The seeds require warm soil to germinate, so it is important to wait until the soil temperature has reached 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
The seeds should be sown in a seed tray filled with potting soil, and lightly covered with soil. The tray should be placed in a warm, sunny location, and kept moist. The seeds should germinate within 10 days to 2 weeks.
Once the seedlings have grown several leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground. It is important to space the seedlings approximately 12 inches apart, to allow for their eventual spread.
Propagation through division
Digitaria decipiens can also be propagated through division. This method involves digging up an established clump of the plant and dividing it into smaller sections. Each section should have several stalks and a healthy root system.
The divided sections should be planted in a prepared bed, and should be watered frequently until established. It is important to space the divided sections approximately 12 inches apart, to allow for their eventual spread.
Propagation through division is best done in the spring, before the plant has begun to actively grow. This gives the divided sections time to establish themselves before the hot summer months.
Disease Management
Digitaria decipiens, commonly known as a false crabgrass, is generally hardy and resilient, but it can be affected by diseases that vary from fungus to bacterial infections. Common diseases are leaf spot, dollar spot, brown patch, and fusarium blight.
Leaf spot and dollar spot are usually caused by a fungus that will infect the plant when the moisture level is high. One effective control method is to avoid overwatering and to ensure the plant has good air circulation. Fungicides can be used for severe infections. Another way to inhibit the spread of fungus is to remove affected plant material. Brown patch and fusarium blight can cause patches of blighted turf. A soil test should be conducted to ensure the soil pH is at the proper level of 6.0 to 7.0. Insect overpopulation can also encourage the growth of fungi. Proper fertilization, water management, and mowing high can also help prevent brown patch and fusarium blight.
Pest Management
Digitaria decipiens may face insect and pest infestations which detract from the health and appearance of the plant. Common pests include chinch bugs and armyworms. These insects feed on the leaves of the plant, causing damage and interrupts growth. Furthermore, the amount of light they allow to pass to the soil reduces and may even block nutrients from reaching the root system.
To control chinch bugs and armyworms, it's important to mow high with sharp mower blades, to avoid over-fertilization, and to properly water the plants. If an infestation becomes severe, it may be necessary to use insecticides that target these specific pests. The use of biological means like nematodes and Bacillus thuringiensis is also effective in controlling armyworms and chinch bugs without affecting beneficial insects.
