Overview
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf is a type of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as the mountain fingergrass and is native to South Africa.
Appearance
The mountain fingergrass has an erect growth pattern and can reach up to 50 cm in height. Its leaves are narrow and can grow up to 20 cm in length. The plant has a shallow root system and forms a dense bunch of stems that are smooth and slender. The inflorescence of the fingergrass is a panicle that has branches that spread out from the main stem.
Uses
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf is commonly used as forage for livestock grazing, and it also has medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Additionally, extracts of the plant have been used to treat conditions such as headaches, fever, kidney problems, and respiratory ailments. The plant is also used in erosion control as it has a shallow root system that helps build soil.
Common names
The digitaria nardifolia Stapf is also known as the mountain fingergrass, fingergrass, and dibekwe.
Light Requirements
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf is known to grow well in areas with bright and direct sunlight. This plant requires a lot of light to grow efficiently, and it can tolerate partial shade but should not be in complete shade. Lack of enough sunlight can stunt its growth and lead to yellowing of the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can withstand a range of temperatures from 15°C to 30°C, and it requires warmth throughout the year to grow vigorously. In general, it prefers warm temperatures with an average range of 20-25°C. In colder regions, the plant tends to die back and become dormant.
Soil Requirements
The optimal soil for Digitaria nardifolia Stapf is well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The soil must be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH level of 5.8-7.2. The plant doesn't tolerate waterlogged soil or soil with poor drainage, as it can lead to root rot. It prefers sandy loam soils that are not compact, allowing air to reach the roots.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf, commonly known as the stiff fingergrass, grows best in areas with well-drained loamy soils that have a pH of about 6.0 to 7.0. This plant thrives well in full sunlight and is ideal for cultivating in gardens and landscapes.Propagation of the plant can be done through seeds or cuttings during autumn or spring. Seeds should be planted no deeper than 1 cm and water gently until germination occurs.
Watering Needs
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf requires regular watering to thrive. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant as it is susceptible to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that water penetrates the soil to a depth of about 15cm. It's best to water the plant in the early hours of the morning or late in the evening to avoid water loss through evaporation
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Digitaria nardifolia Stapf. A balanced fertilizer that contains all the essential nutrients should be applied periodically. The appropriate fertilizer proportions are usually 2 parts nitrogen, 1 part phosphorus, and 1 part potassium. Fertilization should be done during the growing season to ensure proper nutrient absorption.
Pruning
Pruning of Digitaria nardifolia Stapf can be done once every six months to improve the plant's health and growth. Any yellow or dead leaves should be cut off to promote new growth. Additionally, any thin or spindly stems should be pruned to encourage the growth of stronger stems. It's best to prune the plant during the dormant season to promote recovery.
Propagation of Digitaria nardifolia Stapf
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf, also known as the Fingertip Grass, can be propagated through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the easiest and most common method of propagating Digitaria nardifolia. Sow the seeds in a suitable potting medium with a good drainage system. The seeds germinate quickly and can be transferred to a bigger pot or garden bed when the seedlings are about 2 to 3 inches tall.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Another way to propagate Digitaria nardifolia is through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy parent plant and cut off a stem with a pair of garden shears. Place the stem cutting in moist soil, and keep it in a warm and bright spot. Over time, the plant will develop roots and can be transplanted to a suitable potting medium or garden bed.
Division Propagation
Digitaria nardifolia can also be propagated through division. This method involves splitting an established plant into smaller sections and repotting or replanting them. First, dig up the parent plant and clean the soil from the roots. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a sufficient number of roots and foliage. Finally, replant the sections in individual pots or directly in the garden.
Disease Management
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf is generally resistant to most plant diseases. However, it may occasionally suffer from fungal diseases, such as leaf spots, stem blight, and root rot. To manage these diseases, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper drainage to reduce high moisture levels. Also, observe proper plant spacing, which enhances air circulation to reduce humidity levels that can favor fungal development.
Pest Management
Digitaria nardifolia Stapf is susceptible to pest infestation by armyworms, cutworms, and white grubs. These pests feed on plant roots and foliage, reducing plant vigor and yield. To manage pest infestation, apply appropriate insecticides or organic pesticides at the first sign of infestation. It is also essential to practice crop rotation to break pest life cycles and to reduce pest population pressure. Additionally, avoid over-fertilizing, which can stimulate excessive plant growth that is attractive to pest infestation.
