Overview:
Digitaria longiflora, also known as Asian crabgrass, is a species of grass in the Poaceae family. It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. This warm-season perennial grass is known for its hardiness and ability to grow in various soil types and conditions.
Appearance:
The Asian crabgrass has a distinctive bright green color and can grow up to 30-60 cm in height. Its leaf blades are flat, narrow, and can be up to 30 cm in length. The grass produces a characteristic flower spike that can be up to 15 cm long with many small, greenish-yellow spikelets.
Common Names:
Digitaria longiflora is commonly known as Asian crabgrass in English. It is also known as “kapul-ag” in the Philippines, “rumput jepang” in Indonesia, "ima-tebo" in Japan, and "chiu kua" in China.
Uses:
Asian crabgrass is mainly used as animal feed due to its high nutritional value and palatability. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat several health conditions such as urinary disorders, inflammation, and skin diseases. Additionally, the plant is beneficial for erosion control, as it can stabilize soil and prevent soil degradation. In some countries, the seeds of the plant are consumed as a cereal or are ground into flour for baking.
Light requirements
The plant Digitaria longiflora prefers full sunlight exposure for optimum growth. It prefers being planted in open spaces that receive minimal shade. The average duration of sunlight should not be less than six hours daily for optimum growth and survival. Lack of adequate sunlight may lead to stunted growth and reduced yield.
Temperature requirements
The plant requires a warm and humid environment for optimum growth. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. If the temperature rises above 35°C, the plant may experience growth retardation and wilting, leading to death in extreme cases. Low-temperature levels lower than 15°C are detrimental to the growth and survival of Digitaria longiflora.
Soil requirements
Digitaria longiflora grows well in well-drained and fertile loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range between 6 and 7.5 for optimum growth and productivity. The plant can tolerate acidic soils, but a highly alkaline soil may hinder its growth and development.
The plant has shallow roots; therefore, it requires regular watering to maintain moist soil conditions. The soil should not be waterlogged as it may lead to root rot, thus affecting the plant's growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria longiflora is an annual or short-lived perennial grass that thrives in warm temperatures and can grow up to 1 meter tall. It is best cultivated in well-drained soils with varying levels of moisture ranging from slightly moist to dry. Its seeds should be planted in early spring or fall, with a recommended spacing of 30 cm between plants in rows.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers regular watering during its early growth stages to promote establishment but should be watered sparingly once established. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases that can be detrimental to the plant's health. A good practice is to monitor the soil's moisture levels and only water when it feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
It is essential to fertilize Digitaria longiflora regularly to promote optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilizer applications should be made once in every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. An alternative to synthetic fertilizers is the use of organic fertilizers such as compost or manure.
Pruning
Pruning Digitaria longiflora is essential to control its growth and keep it looking neat and tidy. It is recommended to cut back the plant at least once per year in early spring or fall. The best practice is to remove the dead or damaged branches, cutting them back to the nearest healthy growth point. Frequent pruning is not required, but it can help to shape the plant and remove undesired growth.
Propagation of Digitaria longiflora
Digitaria longiflora can be propagated using both vegetative and seed methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Digitaria longiflora can be easily propagated through rhizome division. The rhizomes should be dug out carefully and cleaned before dividing. The divided rhizomes should be replanted at the same depth as they were previously grown. It is important to provide adequate watering after transplanting to ensure proper establishment of the rhizomes.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most commonly used method for propagating Digitaria longiflora. The seeds can be planted directly in the ground or in seed trays filled with high-quality potting soil. The seeds should be sown 0.5-1 cm deep in the soil, and the soil should be kept consistently moist until the seeds germinate. It is advisable to plant the seeds in spring or early summer to provide optimal growing conditions.
In summary, Digitaria longiflora can be easily propagated through rhizome division or seed methods, depending on the grower's preference and growing conditions.
Disease Management
Digitaria longiflora is commonly susceptible to fungal diseases such as brown patch, dollar spot, and Pythium blight. These diseases can be managed by implementing cultural practices such as proper irrigation, good drainage, and reducing humidity within the plant's environment. Fungicides can also be applied as a preventative measure to reduce disease incidence and spread.
Pest Management
Common pests that affect Digitaria longiflora include armyworms, cutworms, and chinch bugs. These pests can be managed by implementing cultural practices such as proper irrigation, mowing to an appropriate height, and reducing thatch buildup. Insecticides can also be applied as needed to reduce pest populations and prevent further damage to the plant.
