Digitaria flexilis Henrard
Digitaria flexilis Henrard is a species of grass commonly known as the tropical crabgrass. It is a creeping perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae and is native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia and South America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as tropical crabgrass, slender crabgrass, and slender finger grass. In Africa, it is known as “Witpenskweekgras” in Afrikaans and “Muzele” in Swahili.
General Appearance
Digitaria flexilis Henrard is a small, slender creeping perennial grass that can grow up to 30 cm in height. The leaves are bright green and thin, measuring about 3-6mm wide and 2-15cm long. The inflorescence comprises of several spikes that could grow up to 8cm in length, with each spike usually bearing 2-8 spikelets.
Uses
Digitaria flexilis Henrard is primarily used for forage in livestock production. It has a good nutrient profile, high protein content and is easily digestible for livestock. The plant is also cultivated as a groundcover in landscaping and erosion control. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat eczema, asthma, and other respiratory diseases. Additionally, the seeds of D. flexilis are used in some cultures for food and can be cooked, ground into flour, or mixed with other grains to make porridge.
Light Requirements
Digitaria flexilis Henrard prefers full sun and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may result in slower growth and smaller size.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to warm and tropical climates, with an optimum temperature range between 25°C (77°F) and 35°C (95°F). It can tolerate higher temperatures up to 40°C (104°F) but may struggle in lower temperatures below 15°C (59°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-draining soil. It can tolerate sandy, loamy, and clay soils as long as they are well-draining and are not constantly waterlogged. The ideal pH range for the plant is between 6.0 and 7.5. It prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Cultivation
Digitaria flexilis Henrard, commonly known as the slender crabgrass or tropical crabgrass, is a perennial plant that can be easily grown both indoors and outdoors. This plant thrives in warm weather, so it is best to cultivate it during the summer months. It can be propagated through seeds, and the seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in seed trays. The plant grows best in well-draining soil in full sun or partial shade.
Watering
Digitaria flexilis Henrard requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. Water the plant deeply until the water penetrates the roots, and allow the soil to dry before the next watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. During the summer months, water the plant two to three times a week, and reduce the frequency during the winter months when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and blooming, Digitaria flexilis Henrard requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to provide the plant with essential nutrients. Fertilize the plant every two to three months during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the winter months. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can damage the plant.
Pruning
Digitaria flexilis Henrard does not require much pruning, but it can benefit from occasional trimming to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Prune the plant in the early spring before the growing season begins, and remove any dead or damaged stems. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, and sterilize them between each use to prevent the spread of plant diseases.
Propagation of Digitaria flexilis Henrard
Digitaria flexilis Henrard is a warm-season grass that can be easily propagated through several methods. The plant is commonly known as "flexible crabgrass" and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Digitaria flexilis Henrard is through seeds. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate. The ideal temperature for seed germination is around 25°C.
Division Propagation
Digitaria flexilis Henrard can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the plant's root ball and replanting the sections in other locations. It is important to make sure that each section has enough roots, and the soil should be kept moist until the plant becomes established.
Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagating Digitaria flexilis Henrard is through cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from the plant and rooting them in moist soil. The ideal time for taking cuttings is during the plant's active growth period.
Conclusion
Digitaria flexilis Henrard is a versatile plant that can be propagated through various methods. Whether through seed, division, or cutting, it is important to provide the plant with proper care to ensure successful propagation.
Disease Management
The plant Digitaria flexilis Henrard is prone to several diseases, including leaf spots, rust, smut, and anthracnose. These diseases can cause severe damage to the plant, resulting in stunted growth, reduced foliage, and yield loss. To manage the diseases, practices like crop rotation, tillage, and planting disease-resistant cultivars should be implemented. In addition, the use of fungicides can help to control the diseases effectively.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect the growth and yield of Digitaria flexilis Henrard. The most common pests include armyworms, cutworms, grasshoppers, and aphids. These pests can cause significant damage by feeding on the foliage, stems, and roots of the plant. To manage the pests, cultural practices such as intercropping, maintaining proper sanitation, and handpicking can be employed. Furthermore, the use of insecticides and biocontrol agents can be effective in controlling the pests.
