Overview
Digitaria mutica Rendle, also known as Durban crabgrass, is a species of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. This plant is originally native to tropical Africa and can now be found in various tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Common names
Durban crabgrass is known by various common names including large crabgrass, supersweet crabgrass, tropical crabgrass, Durban fingergrass, and Swazi grass.
Appearance
Durban crabgrass is a perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter high. This grass has a slender stem with narrow leaves that can grow up to 20 centimeters long and 8 millimeters wide. The leaves are typically green in color and have a pointed tip. The inflorescence of Durban crabgrass is a cluster of flower spikes that can be up to 15 centimeters long.
Uses
Durban crabgrass has several uses. This plant is commonly used as a fodder crop for livestock due to its high nutritional value. The grass is also used for soil conservation and erosion control due to its extensive root system. Furthermore, Durban crabgrass is used as a cover crop and a green manure crop in agriculture.
Light Requirements
The Digitaria mutica Rendle is a plant that thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. Insufficient sunlight may result in stunted growth and a reduction in overall health and nutritional value.
Temperature Requirements
The Digitaria mutica Rendle is best suited for tropical and subtropical regions, with temperature ranges between 18°C to 35°C. It can tolerate extreme heat and drought conditions, which make it a desirable plant for arid and semi-arid regions. However, it cannot withstand temperatures below 0°C and frost, which can kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Digitaria mutica Rendle prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and laterite soils. The soil pH range for optimal growth is between 6.0 to 8.0. The plant does not do well in waterlogged soils, and excessive moisture can result in root rot and fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria mutica Rendle, commonly known as the "Wiregrass," is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can withstand drought conditions, making it an ideal choice for landscaping in hot and dry areas.
When planting, choose a spot that is well-drained, and avoid overwatering. The plant tends to spread quickly, so ensure that you have adequate space for the plant to grow in.
Watering Needs
Wiregrass is drought-tolerant, but regular watering during the growing season can help promote healthy growth. It is important not to overwater the plant as it is susceptible to root rot. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but frequency may depend on the climate and soil conditions.
Fertilization
Wiregrass does not require excessive fertilization and can grow well in poor soil conditions. However, an annual application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can promote healthier foliage and more extensive rooting.
Pruning
Wiregrass does not require regular pruning, but trimming it occasionally can promote a denser growth habit. The plant can be pruned back to the ground in early spring to encourage fresh foliage growth.
If the plant starts to spread excessively, it can be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding. Simply dig up the plant and separate it into smaller sections, then replant at the desired location.
Propagation of Digitaria Mutica Rendle
Digitaria mutica Rendle, also known as the Durban crowfoot grass, is commonly propagated through seeds or vegetatively through its rhizomes.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation of Digitaria mutica through seeds is relatively easy. The plant produces numerous seeds that can be collected and stored in a dry and cool place until planting season. The seeds can be planted directly into the soil at a depth of 1 to 2 cm. It is important to note that germination rates of Digitaria mutica can be quite low, and it may take several weeks before the seeds start to sprout.
Vegetative Propagation through Rhizomes
Vegetative propagation through rhizomes is another method of propagating Digitaria mutica. Rhizomes are horizontally growing underground stems that produce new growth at their nodes. To propagate through rhizomes, a section of the rhizome with nodes and shoots is removed from a mature plant and planted in the soil. The plant will readily produce new growth, and in a few months, it will have developed into a new plant. While the rhizome method is easier than propagating through seeds, it is important to note that this technique requires more care and specialized knowledge.
Propagation of Digitaria mutica can be done effectively using either seeds or vegetative rhizomes. Both methods have proven to be successful and depend on the grower's preferences and the available resources.
Disease Management
Digitaria mutica Rendle, commonly known as wiregrass, is susceptible to several diseases. One of the most common diseases affecting the plant is Rhizoctonia solani, which causes leaf and stem blight. This fungal disease thrives in warm and humid conditions and can spread rapidly through the plant. To manage this disease, it's essential to remove and destroy infected plant debris, promote good air circulation, practice crop rotation, and use fungicides as a preventative measure.
Another disease that can affect Digitaria mutica is rust. Rust appears as small, yellow-orange pustules on the leaves. The disease can spread quickly, leading to extensive damage to the plant. To manage rust, it's essential to maintain good air circulation, avoid overwatering, remove infected debris, and apply fungicides that contain the active ingredient triadimefon.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Digitaria mutica Rendle, damaging the plant and hindering its growth. One of the most common pests that affect wiregrass is cutworms. Cutworms are nocturnal caterpillars that feed on the leaves, stems, and roots of the plant, causing extensive damage. To manage cutworms, it's essential to practice good cultural practices like tillage and crop rotation. Insecticides containing the active ingredient chlorpyrifos can also help manage cutworms.
The fall armyworm is another common pest that can attack Digitaria mutica. These larvae cause extensive damage to the plant, and it's essential to employ control measures immediately. Some management strategies include practicing timely plantings, crop rotation, and applying insecticides. Insecticides containing the active ingredients sprinolactone and thiodicarb are effective against fall armyworms.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests on Digitaria Mutica is essential for the plant's overall health and growth. Early detection, cultural practices, and timely intervention can help manage diseases and pests of Digitaria mutica effectively.
