Origin
Digitaria filiformis (L.) Koel. is commonly known as the slender crabgrass and belongs to the Poaceae family. The plant is widespread and originates from North and South America, but it has spread throughout the world, thanks to its capacity to germinate rapidly under different climatic and ecological conditions.
Common names
The plant is known by several common names, including pin grass, hairy crabgrass, large crabgrass, and tropical crabgrass, among others. Its different names are often attributed to some of its characteristics, such as its hairy stems and leaf sheaths or its tall and fast growth habit.
Uses
The Digitaria filiformis plant has several uses, depending on the region and cultures. In some parts of the world, it is used for animal feed as it has high nutritional value. Moreover, it is used for soil erosion control, especially in areas with unstable soils, thanks to its robust root system. The plant also exhibits medicinal properties, and different parts are used to treat several ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and menstrual disorders.
General appearance
Digitaria filiformis is an annual grass that can grow up to 1m high. It has a smooth, slender stem that is often hairy in the lower parts. The leaves are flat and have a pale green color, and the leaf sheaths are also hairy. The plant produces spikes or racemes that are up to 15cm long and contain many tiny flowers. The seeds are small and brown and can remain viable for several years.
Light Requirements
Digitaria filiformis is a sun-loving plant and requires a full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but when grown in shaded areas, it tends to produce weak stems and foliage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to warm temperate to tropical regions and thrives in warm temperatures. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 21°C to 32°C. However, it can tolerate a temperature range of 10°C to 40°C. When grown in temperatures below 10°C, the plant growth slows down, and it may become dormant.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria filiformis grows well in well-drained soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. It prefers soils that are fertile, rich in organic matter, and can retain moisture. The soil should be well-aerated to promote better root growth and nutrient uptake. In addition, this plant can tolerate drought conditions once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria filiformis is a highly adaptable plant and can grow in a variety of soil types. It prefers sandy to loamy soils and can tolerate drought conditions. However, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained, as the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or vegetative cuttings. Seedlings can be planted directly into the soil, while vegetative cuttings can be planted in the soil after rooting in water.
Watering Needs
Digitaria filiformis requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this may cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
The frequency of watering will depend on the climate, soil type, and the plant's growth stage. As a general rule, the plant should be watered at least once a week during the summer months and less frequently during cooler months.
Fertilization
Digitaria filiformis does not require frequent fertilization, as it can grow well in poor soil conditions. However, the plant can benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season to promote growth and flowering.
A slow-release, balanced fertilizer can be applied once or twice a year, depending on the plant's growth rate and the soil's nutrient content. It is important not to overfertilize, as this may cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Digitaria filiformis requires minimal pruning and maintenance. Dead or damaged leaves or stems can be removed as needed to maintain the plant's appearance. The plant can also be pruned to control its size and shape, but this is not typically necessary.
It is best to avoid pruning during the winter months, as this may damage the plant's new growth. Pruning can be done during the growing season, preferably in the spring or early summer.
Propagation of Digitaria filiformis (L.) Koel.
D. filiformis can be propagated by seed or vegetative means.
Propagation by Seed
The seeds of D. filiformis should be collected from mature plants. The plants bloom from May to September and produce numerous seeds. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be sown. They should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, covered lightly with soil, and watered. The propagation can be done either during spring or autumn and the seeds take about 1-3 weeks to germinate.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
The plant can also be propagated by vegetative means through the division of the plant's rhizomes. To do this, dig up the rhizomes, separate them into sections, and replant them. The plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from actively growing plants and rooted in a well-draining growing medium. Once rooted, they can be transplanted into the ground.
Both propagation methods can be successful and provide plants that are identical to the parent. Vegetative propagation tends to be faster than seed propagation, and plants can be started earlier in the season. Seed propagation can be used to produce a large number of plants and is ideal for establishment over a large area.
Disease Management for Digitaria filiformis (L.) Koel.
Several diseases can affect Digitaria filiformis. The most common diseases are fungal diseases such as anthracnose and leaf spot. These diseases can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to keep the area around the plant clean and dispose of infected plant debris. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Pest Management for Digitaria filiformis (L.) Koel.
Several pests can also affect Digitaria filiformis. The most common pests are mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage these pests, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and prune the plant to improve air circulation. Insecticides and miticides can also be used to prevent the spread of pests.
