Overview
Digitaria divaricata Henrard, commonly known as star grass or white crabgrass, is a perennial grass species belonging to the family Poaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi. The plant is widely grown for its ornamental value, as well as for forage and erosion control purposes.
Appearance
Digitaria divaricata has thin, wiry stems that grow up to a height of 1-2 feet. The plant has a creeping growth habit, forming dense, mat-like patches of foliage. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 10cm in length and 4mm in width. They are bright green and have a pointed tip. The inflorescence consists of several spikes that emerge from the base of the plant. The spikes are up to 20cm in length and have numerous slender branches.
Uses
Digitaria divaricata is commonly used for forage, particularly for grazing animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats. The grass is highly nutritious and is rich in protein, calcium, and other essential minerals. It is also used for erosion control, as the dense root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent soil erosion. Additionally, the plant is grown for ornamental purposes, often used in lawns and gardens due to its attractive appearance.
Growth Conditions of Digitaria divaricata Henrard
Light: Digitaria divaricata Henrard requires a moderate amount of sunlight to grow. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade may lead to stunted growth and thinning of the leaves.
Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, and it can grow in temperatures up to 35 degrees Celsius.
Soil: Digitaria divaricata Henrard prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. The ideal soil pH range is between 5.5 to 7.5.
Water: This plant requires adequate water to grow, especially during the germination and establishment stages. However, it can tolerate drought conditions once established and should not be over-watered.
Fertilizer: Digitaria divaricata Henrard benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer once every two to three months during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated by seeds or division. Sow the seeds in the spring or fall in well-prepared soil and keep the soil moist until germination. Division is best done in the spring or fall by separating the rhizomes and replanting them.
Cultivation methods:
Digitaria divaricata Henrard is best suited for growth in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in full sun or partial shade, making it ideal for planting in locations that receive both shade and sunlight throughout the day. The plant should be grown in a warm climate with temperatures between 20-30 degrees Celsius.
Watering needs:
Digitaria divaricata Henrard requires moderate watering. The plant is drought tolerant and can withstand periods of reduced watering, but it's important to ensure that the soil is consistently moist. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent water evaporation.
Fertilization:
The plant should be fertilized every two months with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as this can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning:
Digitaria divaricata Henrard does not require much pruning. However, dead or diseased leaves and branches should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning should be done using clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant. The best time to prune is during the plant's dormant season.
Propagation of Digitaria divaricata Henrard
Digitaria divaricata Henrard is usually propagated using seeds and vegetative means. The following are the plant's propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Digitaria divaricata Henrard is through seeds. The seeds can be planted directly into the ground or in seed trays. The best time to plant the seeds is during the early spring season or just before the rainy season. The seedlings should be transplanted once they have developed their first set of leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Digitaria divaricata Henrard can also be propagated through vegetative means using stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants with mature stems. These cuttings should be placed in a rooting hormone and then planted in good soil. The cuttings should be watered regularly, and after a few weeks, new roots should begin to develop.
Division
Another vegetative propagation method for Digitaria divaricata Henrard is by division. This involves taking the plant and carefully digging it up from the soil. The plant should be divided into smaller sections ensuring that each section has its roots and stem. The new sections should then be planted in the ground, and they should be watered regularly.
By choosing the right propagation method, gardeners can establish a thriving garden with this plant even from small starting materials.
Disease and Pest Management for Digitaria Divaricata Henrard
Digitaria divaricata Henrard, commonly known as Star grass, is a warm-season perennial grass. Although most resistant to diseases and pests, several factors can impact its growth and survival. Here is a detailed guide on how you can manage pesky pests and diseases affecting Digitaria divaricata Henrard.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases affecting Digitaria divaricata Henrard include leaf spot and rust. These diseases are mostly caused by air moisture, which helps fungi thrive.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot disease is characterized by dark spots appearing on the leaves of the grass. You can manage this disease through regular mowing and proper irrigation management. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent and treat the spread of the disease.
Rust
Rust occurs when the grass is infected with the fungus known as Puccinia. The infected grass blades appear yellow, orange, or reddish-brown. To treat the infection, remove the infected parts of the grass and destroy them. Aerating the soil and fertilizing with nitrogen also helps prevent rust.
Common Pests
The common pests that affect Digitaria divaricata Henrard are sod webworms and armyworms. These pests destroy leaves and cause significant damage to the grass.
Sod Webworms and Armyworms
Sod webworms and armyworms cause significant damage to the grass by cutting the leaves at the base. The resulting brown patches can create a significant eyesore. To manage these pests, apply insecticides and use proper irrigation management to keep the grass healthy.
By following these management practices, you can help protect your Digitaria divaricata Henrard grass from the most common diseases and pests that affect its growth and survival.
