Overview of Digitaria hitchcockii (Chase) Stuckert
Digitaria hitchcockii, also known as Hitchcock’s fingergrass, is a type of perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. This species is native to North America and particularly found in the eastern United States, ranging from Massachusetts to Georgia and westward to Texas and Nebraska. It has become a problematic weed in various crop-producing regions in North America, especially in cereal crops.
Description of Digitaria hitchcockii
The Hitchcock’s fingergrass is a fairly small grass that typically grows up to 30-70 cm in height. The plant has a simple stem, is somewhat flattened, and can be either erect or spreading. The leaves are generally shiny, long, and narrow, measuring 3-12 cm in length and 1-6 mm in width. They are hairless, alternate, and generally have an attractive blue-green color.
The inflorescence is a panicle of 5-20 spikes, with digitate or subdigitate branches that are up to 10 cm long. The spikelets are oval-shaped, with the upper floret of the spikelet significantly reduced in size.
Common Names of Digitaria hitchcockii
Different states in the USA have assigned different common names to Hitchcock's fingergrass. The most common name, as already mentioned, is Hitchcock's fingergrass. It is also known as Pterochloroides hitchcockii, Hitchcock's crabgrass, crabgrass, and Texas fingergrass.
Uses of Digitaria hitchcockii
Although this species is considered as an invasive weed in many croplands, Hitchcock's fingergrass is a crucial food source for various species of birds and mammals, including deer, squirrels, and birds like northern bobwhites and mourning doves.
Furthermore, Hitchcock's crabgrass has potential as a forage crop. It can be grazed by a range of livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats, and used as silage or hay. However, further research is required to establish its nutritional value, as studies have suggested that the crude protein content of the plant is a bit low.
Overall, Digitaria hitchcockii is an important part of the ecology and offers a range of benefits for wildlife and livestock nourishment. However, its tendency towards becoming a weed requires it to be managed carefully to prevent negative impacts on crop production.
Light Requirements
Digitaria hitchcockii typically thrives in full sunlight and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This plant can tolerate some shade but will not grow as vigorously or produce as many seeds in shady areas.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is typically found in warm regions and prefers temperatures between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate brief periods of extreme heat or cold, but prolonged exposure to temperatures outside its preferred range can damage or kill this plant.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria hitchcockii prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. This plant can also tolerate soils with low nutrient levels, but the addition of organic matter can help improve growth and seed production. It is important to note that this plant does not grow well in soils that are constantly saturated with water.
Cultivation method for Digitaria hitchcockii (Chase) Stuckert
Digitaria hitchcockii is a warm-season grass that thrives best in sunny areas. The plant prefers well-drained soils and requires moderate watering to grow correctly. The seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch below the soil surface in the spring after the last frost.
The grass seed should be sown at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds per 1,000 square feet on prepared soil. An application of 1/4 to 1/2 inch of compost or other organic material before planting can encourage the growth of the plant.
Watering needs for Digitaria hitchcockii (Chase) Stuckert
Digitaria hitchcockii has average water needs and should be watered adequately during the growing season. The plant should be watered once a week, providing about 1 inch of water per week. The most effective way to water Digitaria hitchcockii is a slow and deep watering that soaks the soil to encourage deep root growth.
During drought conditions or extended high temperatures, Digitaria hitchcockii may require additional watering to prevent wilting or damage.
Fertilization for Digitaria hitchcockii (Chase) Stuckert
Digitaria hitchcockii growth can be encouraged with the application of a high-nitrogen fertilizer. The best time to fertilize is in the spring, about four to eight weeks after planting or the beginning of new growth.
Digitaria hitchcockii requires a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0, and a soil test can be conducted to check the soil pH level. A nitrogen application of up to 1 pound per 1,000 square feet can be applied weekly in the summer months to encourage growth.
Pruning for Digitaria hitchcockii (Chase) Stuckert
Digitaria hitchcockii requires minimal pruning, and only a few leaves should be removed to maintain the plant's overall shape and appearance. Pruning should be carried out in late winter or early spring before the new growth."
It is advisable to remove damaged or dead plant parts promptly to avoid any insects or diseases from attacking the plant.
Propagation Methods for Digitaria hitchcockii
Digitaria hitchcockii, commonly known as Hitchcock's crabgrass, is a perennial grass species native to North America. It is commonly found in waste areas, roadsides, and disturbed sites. The plant is easy to propagate from seed and can be started indoors or directly sown outdoors. Propagation methods for Digitaria hitchcockii include:
Direct Seeding
Direct seeding is the easiest and most cost-effective way to propagate Digitaria hitchcockii. Seeds can be sown directly into the ground in spring or fall when the soil temperature is warm enough for germination. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Before planting, the soil should be tilled to a depth of 4-6 inches and any weeds removed. Seeds should be spread evenly over the soil surface and covered with a thin layer of soil. Water the area thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Indoor Seeding
Indoor seeding is recommended for areas with a short growing season or for starting plants earlier in the season. Seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date. Fill seed-starting trays with well-draining soil and plant one to two seeds per cell. Cover the trays with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to create a moist environment that promotes germination. Place the trays in a warm location with plenty of light, such as a south-facing window or under grow lights. Water the seeds regularly and make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Transplanting
Transplanting is the process of moving seedlings from indoors to outdoors or from one location to another. When transplanting Digitaria hitchcockii, it is important to choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil. The soil should be prepared by tilling to a depth of 4-6 inches and incorporating compost or other organic matter. Seedlings should be planted at the same depth as they were in the seedling tray, with the soil level just above the roots. Water the seedlings thoroughly after transplanting and keep the soil consistently moist until the plant becomes established.
Disease and Pest Management for Digitaria hitchcockii (Chase) Stuckert
Digitaria hitchcockii is commonly known as Hitchcock's crabgrass, and it is a warm-season grass that is native to North America. It is a popular choice for a warm-season lawn and is easy to maintain. However, several pests and diseases can affect the growth of the plant. Proper disease and pest management are crucial for the healthy growth and development of Digitaria hitchcockii.
Common diseases that affect Digitaria hitchcockii
Digitaria hitchcockii is susceptible to various diseases which can severely affect its growth and development. Some common diseases that affect Digitaria hitchcockii are:
- Brown patch: It is a fungal disease that affects the blades and sheaths of the grass. It leads to the development of brown patches on the grass, and the affected area can enlarge up to several feet.
- Leaf spot: It is a fungal disease that affects the blades of the grass. It leads to the development of small, circular spots that can grow up to 1/4 inch in diameter. The spots usually have a reddish-brown border.
- Powdery mildew: It is a fungal disease that forms a white, powdery film on the leaves of the grass. The infected leaves may turn yellow or brown and may eventually die.
Disease management for Digitaria hitchcockii
The following are some ways to manage diseases that affect Digitaria hitchcockii:
- Prune trees and shrubs to provide good air circulation and reduce humidity around the plant.
- Avoid overwatering the lawn as it can lead to the development of fungal diseases.
- Maintain proper mowing height to avoid stress on the grass and promote healthy growth.
- Apply fungicides as per the manufacturer's instructions to control fungal diseases.
Common pests that affect Digitaria hitchcockii
Digitaria hitchcockii is also prone to several pests that can wreak havoc on the plant's growth and development. Some common pests that affect Digitaria hitchcockii are:
- Chinch bugs: These are small insects that suck the sap from the grass blades. They usually infest the lawn in hot and dry weather conditions.
- Sod webworms: These are moth larvae that feed on the roots and blades of the grass. They cause irregular brown patches on the lawn.
- Armyworms: These are caterpillars that feed on the grass blades. They can quickly defoliate an entire lawn if not controlled in time.
Pest management for Digitaria hitchcockii
The following are some ways to manage pests that affect Digitaria hitchcockii:
- Regularly monitor the lawn for signs of pest infestations.
- Water the lawn deeply and infrequently to discourage the development of chinch bugs.
- Apply insecticides as per the manufacturer's instructions to control pest infestations.
- Encourage natural predators like birds and ground beetles to feed on the pests.
