Origin and Common Names
Digitaria delicatula Stapf, commonly known as Australian finger grass or delicate crabgrass, is native to Australia and Papua New Guinea. It belongs to the family Poaceae and subfamily Panicoideae.General Appearance
This warm-season grass is an annual or short-lived perennial that can grow up to 50 cm tall. It has a tufted growth habit with slender, wiry stems that are often reddish in color. The leaves are flat with pointed tips, measuring 2-8 cm long and 1.5-3 mm wide, and have smooth margins. The inflorescence, or flowering part, is a terminal raceme with small spikelets that are 1.5-3 mm long.Uses
This grass species is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock and as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion. It is also frequently found in lawns and gardens due to its ability to quickly establish and tolerate different soil types. In addition, some studies have shown that Digitaria delicatula has potential as a biofuel crop due to its high biomass production and high cellulose content. Overall, Digitaria delicatula Stapf is a versatile and useful grass species with a range of applications in agriculture and land management.Growth Conditions of Digitaria delicatula Stapf
Light Conditions: Digitaria delicatula Stapf prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It can grow in shaded areas, but its growth rate is slower compared to when grown in full sun. This plant is adapted to sunny and open habitats, and it requires at least six hours of sunlight every day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements: Digitaria delicatula Stapf is a warm-season grass that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires a minimum temperature of 60°F to germinate, and the ideal temperature range for growth is between 80°F and 90°F. In areas with temperatures below this range, growth can be stunted or delayed.
Soil Requirements: Digitaria delicatula Stapf prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged soils. The optimal range of soil pH for growth is between 5.5 and 7.5.
Moisture Requirements: Digitaria delicatula Stapf is adapted to semi-arid conditions, and it is drought-tolerant. It can grow in areas with an annual rainfall of 400-1500 mm. However, it requires adequate moisture during the germination stage and establishment phase. Once it is established, it can survive long periods of drought.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria delicatula Stapf, commonly known as Smuts fingergrass, is a warm-season, perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant loves full sun, and it's essential to provide it with six to eight hours of sunlight every day. It can grow in various soils but prefers well-draining sandy loam soils. This plant can be propagated from seeds, and it's crucial to ensure that the seeds are planted at a depth of around 1 cm to allow proper germination.
Watering Needs
Smuts fingergrass is a drought-tolerant plant, and it requires moderate watering. It's recommended to water the plant once every two weeks, especially during dry seasons. However, it's essential to ensure that the soil doesn't become waterlogged since it can lead to root rot. Water the plant in the morning to minimize the chances of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
To promote the growth of Digitaria delicatula Stapf, it's crucial to fertilize regularly. It's recommended to use a balanced fertilizer during planting and wait for four to six weeks before applying a nitrogen-based fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer once every two months during the growing season to promote greener foliage and healthier growth.
Pruning
Pruning of Smuts fingergrass is minimal but necessary. It's essential to trim the plant regularly to prevent it from becoming too tall and spindly. Cut the grass blades to approximately a third of their length using sharp pruning shears or a lawnmower. Ensure that you remove any dead or diseased leaves and debris to allow proper air circulation and prevent infections.
Propagation of Digitaria delicatula Stapf
Digitaria delicatula Stapf is commonly known as fine fingergrass or tropical crabgrass. It is a warm-season grass that is grown for forage and groundcover. Propagation of this plant is easy and can be done through several methods which include:
Seed propagation:
The most common method of propagating Digitaria delicatula is through seed production. The seeds of this grass can be collected by allowing the plant to mature, and the seeds will drop on the ground. Alternatively, the seeds can be collected by cutting the stalks when the seedheads have turned brown and dry. The seeds are then stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.
Transplanting:
Transplanting is another method of propagating Digitaria delicatula. This method is particularly useful when a large area needs to be covered or when seeding is not practical. The process of transplanting involves uprooting young plants from an established area and transferring them to another area. This method ensures that the plants survive and grow quickly.
Vegetative propagation:
Digitaria delicatula can also be propagated through vegetative means like stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from young and healthy plants. Cut the stem with a clean sharp knife or secateurs, making sure that at least two nodes remain on the stem. The cuttings are then planted into a suitable medium and kept moist until root formation occurs.
Propagation of Digitaria delicatula is not complicated, and it can be done using several methods. It is essential to monitor the plants during propagation to ensure that they are growing well.
Disease Management
Digitaria delicatula, also known as tropical crabgrass or slender crabgrass, is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Fungal diseases: These include leaf spot, fusarium blight, and dollar spot. To manage these diseases, avoid overwatering and remove infected plant parts. Fungicides can also be applied as a preventative measure.
- Viral diseases: These can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. There is no cure for viral diseases, so prevention is key. Maintain optimal plant health and avoid the use of contaminated tools.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can damage Digitaria delicatula, including:
- Armyworms: These pests eat through the blades of grass, causing brown patches. They can be managed by applying an insecticide.
- Chinch bugs: These pests suck sap from the plant and inject toxins, causing yellowing and wilting. They can be managed by applying an insecticide and maintaining proper soil moisture.
- Sod webworms: These pests eat through the blades of grass, causing brown patches. They can be managed by applying an insecticide and maintaining proper soil moisture.
Regular monitoring of the plant and prompt action in case of disease or pest infestation can help maintain a healthy stand of Digitaria delicatula.
