Overview
Digitaria monobotrys (Van der Veken) Clayton, commonly known as one-seeded finger grass, is a perennial grass species native to southern Africa. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is commonly found in grasslands, savannahs, and open woodlands.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 60cm in height and has a densely tufted, erect growth habit. Its leaves are flat, narrow, and often have a dark green color. The inflorescence consists of digitate spikes, which means that the spikes radiate from a central point like fingers on a hand. The spikes are 2-10cm long and bear one seed each.
Common Names
Digitaria monobotrys is commonly known as one-seeded finger grass, single-seeded finger grass, and single-seeded fingergrass. The plant also has various indigenous names in different African languages.
Uses
Digitaria monobotrys has various uses, such as forage for livestock, erosion control, and as a component in traditional medicine. In African traditional medicine, the roots and leaves are used to treat various ailments, such as stomach disorders, respiratory infections, and fever. The plant is also used to make brooms, baskets, and roofing materials.
Light Requirements
Digitaria monobotrys thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. A lack of adequate sunlight can result in stunted growth, chlorosis, and decreased seed production.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria monobotrys is a warm-season grass species and requires average to warm temperatures to grow and flourish. The optimal temperature range for growth and development is between 25 and 35°C (77 and 95°F). Temperatures below 15°C (59°F) can hinder growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria monobotrys prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate various soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. Soil fertility is also important for optimal growth; it requires moderate to high fertility soils with good water-holding capacity.
Guidance on the Cultivation of Digitaria monobotrys (Van der Veken) Clayton
Digitaria monobotrys (Van der Veken) Clayton, commonly known as sand finger grass, is a hardy plant that grows well in warm temperate and tropical regions. Here are some tips on how to cultivate and care for this plant:
Watering Needs
Digitaria monobotrys requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers moist but well-drained soil, so regular irrigation is recommended to keep the soil moist. Watering should be reduced during the winter months to prevent root rot. Overwatering should also be avoided as it can cause the plant to rot.
Fertilization
Digitaria monobotrys benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once every month during the growing season (spring and summer). Slow-release fertilizers can also be used, following the manufacturer's instructions. Fertilization should be stopped during the winter months as the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Pruning
Digitaria monobotrys does not require any specific pruning, but it can be trimmed back in the spring to encourage new growth and maintain its shape. Dead or damaged stems and leaves can be removed throughout the year to keep the plant healthy. When pruning, sharp and clean tools should be used to prevent the transmission of diseases.
Propagation of Digitaria monobotrys (Van der Veken) Clayton
Digitaria monobotrys can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means. The plant produces seeds, which can be collected and stored for later use. Additionally, the plant can be propagated asexually through division and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Digitaria monobotrys can be harvested when they turn brown and become mature. The collected seeds can be planted immediately or stored in a cool, dry place for future use. Before planting, the seeds should be treated with a fungicide to prevent fungal growth.
The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be kept moist but not waterlogged until they germinate. The germination time may vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the environmental conditions.
Asexual Propagation
Digitaria monobotrys can be propagated through division or cuttings. Division involves separating the clumps of the plant into smaller sections, each containing roots and stems. These smaller sections can then be planted in soil and treated like individual plants.
Cuttings can be taken from the stems of the plant and rooted in a suitable soil mix. The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and stripped of their lower leaves. They should be planted in a rooting hormone and placed in a warm, humid environment until they develop roots. Once the new plant has established roots, it can be transplanted into its own pot or directly into the soil.
Disease Management for Digitaria monobotrys
Digitaria monobotrys is generally resistant to most diseases. However, like any other plant, it can still be vulnerable to some diseases. One of the common diseases that affect this plant is leaf spot disease. The leaf spot disease shows up as small spots on the leaves which later turn into yellow halos with dark margins. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves to avoid spread, avoid overhead watering and apply copper-based fungicides as directed.
Pest Management for Digitaria monobotrys
Digitaria monobotrys is generally resistant to pests. However, some pests can still attack the plant and cause damages. One of the common pests that frequently attack this plant is the armyworm. Armyworms can quickly destroy the leaves of the plant. To manage them, handpick the worms that can be seen and spray Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) on the plant once a week for three to four weeks.
