Overview
Digitaria fusca Chiov. is a species of grass in the Poaceae family, that is native to Africa.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as brown fingergrass or small crabgrass
Appearance
Digitaria fusca is a small annual plant which can grow up to 40cm tall with a very fine stem. The leaves are green with a flat cylindrical shape.
Uses
Digitaria fusca is used as an essential ingredient for cattle feed due to its ability to provide great nutrition for livestock.
It also has some applications in traditional medicine as it is used as a remedy for fever, rheumatism, and other conditions.
Furthermore, it is used as a cover crop due to its nitrogen fixation ability that allows it to enrich the soil when it is grown.
Light Conditions
Digitaria fusca Chiov. prefers to grow in areas that receive full sunlight. It is a photophilous plant species that requires at least six hours of bright, direct light a day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
The plant typically grows in areas with a temperature range between 20°C to 33°C (68°F to 91°F). It can tolerate a high temperature but cannot withstand long periods of frost.
Soil Conditions
Digitaria fusca Chiov. can grow in various types of soils such as sandy, clay, and loam, but it thrives in well-draining, fertile soil. The soil pH range should be between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate drought but prefers moist soil.
Cultivation methods
Digitaria fusca Chiov. is a hardy plant that can grow in various soil types. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate high temperatures. For optimal growth, plant the seeds in the warm season when the soil temperature is around 20-25°C. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and spaced 15-20 cm apart. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to a spacing of 30-40 cm.
Watering needs
Watering should be done regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. However, take care not to overwater as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote growth and development. Apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use slow-release fertilizer pellets at the beginning of the growing season.
Pruning
Digitaria fusca Chiov. does not require much pruning, but it is necessary to remove dead leaves and stems regularly. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to promote new growth. Remove any broken or damaged branches whenever you notice them to maintain the plant's health and aesthetics.
Propagation of Digitaria fusca Chiov.
Digitaria fusca Chiov. commonly known as brown crabgrass is a warm-season annual grass which is widely distributed in tropical regions. The plant can be propagated through seeds or vegetatively.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common propagation method adopted by farmers and gardeners for Digitaria fusca Chiov. is through seeds. The seeds are small and can be easily collected from mature plants. The best time to collect the seeds is when the plant is fully matured and starting to wither. The seeds can be sown directly on the ground or in trays. When sowing directly on the ground, the area should be cleared and prepared by loosening the soil. The soil should also be moistened before sowing the seeds. After sowing the seeds, cover them with soil and keep moist. The seeds will germinate in 7 to 14 days. When sowing on trays, use a fine soil mix and keep moist. The trays should be kept in a warm place with access to sunlight. After germination, transplant the seedlings to the prepared field.
Propagation through Vegetative Means
Another means of propagation for Digitaria fusca Chiov. is through vegetative means. This requires taking cuttings from mature plants and planting them in the soil. To take the cuttings, select healthy matured plants and cut stems of about 6 inches length. Remove the leaves from the bottom part of the stem. Plant the cutting in the prepared soil and keep moist. After about 2 to 3 weeks, roots will develop, and the plant will start to grow.
Both seed propagation and vegetative propagation methods can be used to propagate Digitaria fusca Chiov. successfully. Farmers and gardeners usually prefer seed propagation due to ease of collection and propagation. Whichever method is chosen, farmers should observe good cultural practices to ensure optimal growth and yield.
Disease Management
Digitaria fusca Chiov. may be affected by various fungal diseases, such as leaf spot, rust, and anthracnose. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to practice good cultural practices, including planting disease-free seeds or seedlings, rotating crops, and avoiding excessive irrigation or fertilization that can promote the growth of fungal pathogens. Fungicides can also be used to control severe infections.
Pest Management
The most common pest that may affect Digitaria fusca Chiov. is the grasshopper. Grasshoppers can cause significant damage by feeding on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage grasshopper infestations, it is recommended to use cultural control measures, including removing weeds and debris from the area around the crop and planting a trap crop such as sudangrass to attract and divert grasshoppers away from the main crop. Insecticides can also be used to control severe infestations.
