Overview of Digitaria diversiflora Swallen
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen is a warm-season perennial grass that grows in the American tropics and subtropics. The plant is also known as tropical crabgrass, broadleaf crabgrass, and sprangletop.
Appearance of Digitaria diversiflora Swallen
The plant has a bunch-like growth habit with stems that can grow up to a meter tall. The leaves are broad and flat, with a characteristic light green color. The inflorescences are digitate and have a purplish hue, with three to eight spikes, each measuring up to 15 cm long.
Uses of Digitaria diversiflora Swallen
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen has various uses. The plant's leaves and seeds are used in traditional medicine due to their rich nutrient content, including proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals such as iron, calcium, and zinc. The grass is also used as a forage crop for cattle, sheep, and goats due to its high palatability and nutritional value. Additionally, it is used as a natural mulch and as a cover crop to control soil erosion.
Growth Conditions for Digitaria diversiflora Swallen
Light: Digitaria diversiflora Swallen thrives in full sun to partial shade exposure. Limited shade can help prevent the plant from becoming too tall and leggy.
Temperature: This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and prefers warm temperatures. It can survive temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) but growth will be slowed or stopped. Warm temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-30°C) are optimal for growth.
Soil: Digitaria diversiflora Swallen can grow in a range of soil types, but prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A pH level between 5.5-7.5 is preferred. It does not tolerate wet or waterlogged soils and can be sensitive to salt buildup.
Moisture: This plant requires consistent moisture during the growing season, but cannot tolerate standing water. It is drought-tolerant, but prolonged drought can lead to slow growth and reduced flowering. Regular watering is necessary during extended dry periods.
Fertilizer: Digitaria diversiflora Swallen benefits from fertilization during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer or one with a slightly higher nitrogen content. However, it is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to weakened stems and an increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen, also known as the variable crabgrass, is a warm-season grass that is native to North and South America. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. To cultivate Digitaria diversiflora Swallen, you need to follow these steps:
- Prepare the soil by removing debris such as weeds, stones, and rocks, and loosen the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches.
- Spread the seeds evenly on the soil surface and cover them with a quarter-inch of soil.
- Water the soil gently to avoid washing away the seeds.
- Ensure that the soil remains moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to two weeks.
- Thin the plants to 6-10 inches apart once they are three inches tall to allow them to grow healthy.
Watering Needs
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen requires an adequate water supply to grow healthy. You need to water the plants frequently to promote growth and prevent wilting during hot and dry weather. Water the plants regularly once a week. Also, it is crucial to water the plants in the early morning to keep them hydrated throughout the day and avoid fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The essential nutrients for growth for the Digitaria diversiflora Swallen plant are Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of either 15-15-15 or 20-20-20. You can apply the fertilizer twice a year during the active growth season, which is typically from late spring to early fall. Avoid applying the fertilizer too close to the plant base, and water the plant after fertilizing to aid in absorption.
Pruning
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen does not require pruning except for the occasional trimming of weeds around the plants. You can also mow the grass to maintain a neat appearance if growing in a lawn. For ornamental purposes or aesthetic appeal, you can cut the plant's inflorescence once the flowers start to wilt.
Propagation of Digitaria Diversiflora Swallen
Propagation of Digitaria diversiflora Swallen can be done by both sexual and asexual methods. The plant is an annual grass species that produces numerous seeds, which can be collected and sown to propagate new plants.
Sexual Propagation
The seeds of Digitaria diversiflora Swallen can be collected in the fall when they are mature and have turned brown. The seeds should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place until it is time to sow them in the spring.
Before planting the seeds, the soil should be prepared by removing any weeds or debris and tilling to a depth of at least six inches. The seeds can be planted about ¼ inch deep and spaced about 12 inches apart. Water the seeds gently but thoroughly and keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
Asexual Propagation
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen can also be propagated asexually by division. This method is useful when you want to produce new plants quickly or if the parent plant is looking overgrown.
To divide the plant, carefully dig it up with a shovel or garden fork and separate the clumps using your hands or a sharp knife. Each division should have a healthy root system and several shoots. Replant the divisions immediately, making sure to water them in well.
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen can be a great addition to any garden or landscape. With these propagation methods, you can easily produce new plants and enjoy their unique characteristics year after year.
Disease management
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen, also known as tropical crabgrass, is highly resistant to most diseases. However, the following diseases may sometimes affect the plant:
- Leaf blight: This is a common fungal disease that causes yellowing, browning, and eventual death of the leaves. The disease can be managed by removing infected leaves and spraying fungicides such as copper-based products.
- Root rot: Root rot is often caused by waterlogged soil, leading to the death of the roots. The disease can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining, avoiding overwatering, and maintaining proper soil pH.
Pest management
Digitaria diversiflora Swallen is relatively pest-resistant. However, some pests may attack the plant occasionally, including:
- Armyworms: These caterpillars can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be managed by applying insecticides such as pyrethroids.
- Crane flies: The larvae of crane flies can feed on the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and death. The pests can be controlled by using nematodes or applying insecticides such as carbaryl.
- Mites: Mites can cause leaf yellowing and curling, leading to a reduction in plant vigor. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
