Plant Description:
Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent is a type of perennial grass that is native to the southeastern United States. This grass typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet, although it can reach up to 6 feet in optimal growing conditions. The leaves of the plant are long and narrow, and they grow in clumps. The stem of the plant is slender and often has a reddish hue to it.
Common Names:
This plant is commonly called the Southern Crabgrass, Candle Grass, Coastal Crabgrass and Prostrate Crabgrass.
Uses:
Digitaria littoralis var. prostrata is a common grass species used for soil stabilization and erosion control in coastal areas. It is also commonly used as a forage for livestock. In addition, this plant can be used as a weed suppressant and as a cover crop.
General Appearance:
This plant has long, narrow leaves that grow in clumps. The stem is slender and often has a reddish hue. Digitaria littoralis var. prostrata produces small flowers that are held on branching stems that emerge from the top of the plant. This grass has a deep root system that allows it to tolerate drought conditions, and it can grow in a variety of soil types.
Light Conditions
The plant Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent thrives well in full sun or partial shade. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow optimally. The plant does not do well in areas where there is a lot of shade. As a result, it should be planted in areas where it can get enough sunshine to grow healthily.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in soil that is well-draining and fertile. Soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH level ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be enriched with organic matter to promote adequate drainage and water retention. The plant does not do well in waterlogged soils, and as a result, good drainage is essential.
Temperature
The ideal temperature for the Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent plant should be between 22 to 32°C. The plant does not do well in temperatures below 10°C, and it is prone to fungal diseases in areas that experience high humidity. If planting in areas with high humidity, be sure to plant the Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent where it can get enough air movement and have low humidity.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent can be grown in a variety of soil types. However, it is best suited for sandy loam or clay loam soils that are well-drained. This plant can tolerate partial shade, but it grows best in full sun. The seeds of this plant are small and require light to germinate. Therefore, it is recommended to sow the seeds directly on the soil surface and lightly cover them with soil.
Watering Needs
Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Watering in the early morning or late afternoon is ideal, as it reduces water loss through evaporation and helps the plant to absorb water efficiently.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an important aspect of caring for Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent. The plant requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and optimal flowering. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduce the plant's overall vigor.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for the Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent plant. However, it can be beneficial for maintaining a compact growth habit and preventing the plant from becoming too leggy. If necessary, prune the plant in early spring before new growth appears. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Propagation of Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent
Propagation of Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent can be done through various methods. Here are the most common ones:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent can be sown directly into well-prepared soil during the rainy season. The seeds should be placed at a depth of 1-2 cm and covered lightly with soil. Water the soil gently but thoroughly.
Germination of the seeds usually takes around 10-14 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted after they have grown to a height of 10-15 cm. Care should be taken not to damage the roots of the plants during the transplanting process.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation involves using plant parts other than seeds to produce new plants. In Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent, this can be achieved through:
- Division of rhizomes - the plant's rhizomes can be divided into smaller sections, each with at least one bud. These sections can be planted in new locations to grow into new plants.
- Rooting of stem cuttings - sections of stems cut from the plant can be rooted in a rooting hormone and planted in soil once roots have developed.
Propagation of Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent is relatively easy, and the plants can spread quickly in suitable conditions.
Disease Management
Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent is susceptible to various diseases that can hinder its growth and development. The common plant diseases that can affect this plant species include leaf spot, grey mould, and root rot.
Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Bipolaris spp. presenting as a small circular spot on the lower leaves, but it spreads and enlarges into brown or purple necrotic spots. Grey mould, caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea, presents as a greyish-brown fuzzy growth on any part of the plant. Finally, root rot, caused by the fungus Fusarium spp., causes the roots to appear brown, rotten, and mushy.
To manage these diseases effectively, it is crucial to prevent their occurrence altogether. Ensure good sanitation practices, including removing any diseased plant material from the area, rotating plant species, and avoiding overhead watering.
In case the diseases occur, recommended measures include the use of fungicides such as Azoxystrobin, Boscalid, and Pyraclostrobin. Use the fungicides early enough in the disease development stages to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Digitaria littoralis Stent var. prostrata Stent can also suffer from attacks by pests, that include cutworms, armyworms, and spider mites, and aphids. Cutworms and armyworms are leaf-eating caterpillars that cause significant damage to the plant. Spider mites and aphids suck juices from the plant, leading to discoloration, distortion, and stunted growth.
To manage the pests effectively, it is important to scout regularly for their presence and use appropriate control methods. One of the primary solutions includes the use of pesticides. The most effective pesticides for cutworms and armyworms include Bacillus thuringiensis and Spinosad. For spider mites and aphids, horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps may work.
Additionally, proper plant nutrition and good cultural practices can help boost the plant's resistance to pests. Using organic fertilizers to enrich the soil can improve plant health and vigor, making them less attractive to pests. To prevent pest infestations, avoid overwatering, as this can attract pests as well as cause root rot.
