Origin and common names
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. is a species of grass native to Africa. It is commonly known as Rhodesgrass or Rhodesian finger grass.
Uses
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. is used in agriculture as grazing fodder for livestock and for erosion control because of its ability to quickly establish roots. It is also used for hay production and as an ornamental grass in landscaping.
General appearance
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. is a perennial grass that can reach heights of up to 1.5 meters. Its leaves are rough to the touch and can grow up to 30 centimeters in length. The inflorescence is a finger-like structure that can be up to 15 centimeters long. The grass has long and thin stems that grow close to the ground and can spread rapidly through rhizomes.
Light Requirements
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. thrives well under full sunlight conditions. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight every day for optimum growth. Therefore, it best suits outdoor plantations that receive plenty of sunshine.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. is a warm-season grass species that requires a warm and humid environment for robust growth. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 25°C to 35°C during the day and not less than 15°C at night. Temperatures below 10°C hinder the plant's growth, while frost can lead to severe damages.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. is highly adaptable to different soil types but requires well-drained soils. The plant can thrive in sandy soils but will require adequate moisture supply. The best soil pH range for the plant is between 6 to 7.5. Adding organic matter during soil preparation can improve soil fertility and the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. is easy to grow and care for. It is adaptable to a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is drought-tolerant. It can be propagated by seed, sod, or plugs.
Watering Needs
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. does not require a lot of water once it has become established. It only needs to be watered deeply when the soil is dry. Watering once a week during the summer is usually sufficient, but more may be needed during periods of extreme heat. It is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. does not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring and fall. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and make the plant more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Pruning
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. does not require regular pruning. However, it is a good idea to mow it to a height of 2-3 inches in the spring to remove any dead leaves and encourage new growth. If the plant becomes too tall or unruly, it can be pruned back to a more manageable size. Pruning should be done in the early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant.
Propagation of Digitaria dunensis Goetgh.
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. commonly known as slender finger grass is generally propagated through seeds. It grows well in a warm and humid environment. The following are the various methods used for propagation:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used for propagating Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. Seeds can be collected from the plant or purchased from a reliable supplier. The seeds have to be sown during the rainy season as the plants require sufficient moisture to grow. The steps involved in seed propagation are as follows:
- Prepare the soil by thoroughly tilling the land and removing any weeds.
- Sow the seeds directly onto the soil surface and lightly cover them with a layer of soil (not more than 5mm).
- Water the soil immediately after sowing to enable the seeds to germinate. Ensure that the soil remains moist throughout the germination process.
- Thin out the seedlings when they reach a height of about 5cm to prevent overcrowding.
- Transplant the seedlings to their final destination when they reach a height of about 20cm.
Propagation of Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. through seed is relatively easy and can result in high yields.
Disease Management of Digitaria dunensis Goetgh.
Digitaria dunensis Goetgh. is generally a hardy grass with limited disease susceptibility. However, the plant can get affected by diseases mainly caused by fungi, such as brown patches or leaf spots.
The best methods to avoid the occurrence of diseases are to plant resistant varieties and avoid over-fertilization and watering. Proper drainage and light conditions can also prevent fungal growth in the plant.
If the plant gets infected, the diseased part must be removed and destroyed as soon as possible. Fungicides can be applied as a preventive measure but should not be used excessively.
Pest Management of Digitaria dunensis Goetgh.
Several pests can affect Digitaria dunensis Goetgh., including armyworms, cutworms, mites, and aphids. The primary damage caused by these pests is the destruction of foliage and stems.
The best method to manage pests is by good garden hygiene. Keeping the area clean, removing debris, and preventing overcrowding of the plant can reduce pest infestation.
Beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites can also be introduced to control the pest population. Insecticides should be used sparingly and as a last resort to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators.
