Origin and Common Names
Digitaria nuda Schumach. subsp. schumacheriana Henrard, also known as Naked Finger Grass, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is native to several countries in Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Appearance
The Naked Finger Grass is a small, fine-textured, creeping plant that grows up to 30cm tall. It has erect or slightly curved stems that are green in color, slender, and hairless. Its leaves are flat, narrow, and taper to a point at the tip. They are usually between 5 and 15cm long and 3 to 8mm wide.
The plant produces finger-like spikes at the end of its stems, which bear tiny green flowers that later turn into seeds that are oval-shaped and about 1mm in size. The seeds are usually yellow or brown in color and are held in small clusters at the tips of the spikelets.
Uses
The Naked Finger Grass is used for several purposes, such as soil stabilisation, cover for erosion control on steep slopes, and soil bound in disturbed areas. It is also used as a forage grass for livestock and wildlife and to some extent, it's essential as an indigenous fodder plant that grows in the marginal areas of Zimbabwe. Moreover, its leaves are used in traditional medicine for fevers and diarrhea, and its seeds are used for food, such as porridge and bread.
Light Requirements
Digitaria nuda Schumach. subsp. schumacheriana Henrard typically grows in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not thrive in very low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to Africa and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as 5°C (41°F) to as high as 35°C (95°F). However, it generally prefers temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F).
Soil Requirements
Digitaria nuda Schumach. subsp. schumacheriana Henrard grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. However, it prefers soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria nuda Schumach. subsp. schumacheriana Henrard, commonly called (Deccan grass or naked crabgrass), is a warm-season annual grass that grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. It requires well-draining soil and full sunlight exposure to thrive. Ensure that the planting area is free from weeds, as they can compete with the grass for nutrients and hinder its growth. Plant the seeds at a depth of approximately 0.5 cm, and cover with a thin layer of soil.
Watering Needs
Deccan grass requires consistent moisture to grow properly. Water the grass regularly, but avoid over-watering as it can lead to waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Water the grass in the early mornings or late evenings when the temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation. Consider using drip irrigation to ensure that the water is directed to the roots rather than sprayed on the leaves.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth and development, fertilize the grass after germination. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, and apply it at a rate of 2-3 pounds per 1000 square feet. Fertilize the grass again four to six weeks after the first application. Be sure to read the instructions on the fertilizer package before applying.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the height of the grass. Ideally, Deccan grass should be mowed when it reaches a height of 5-10 cm. Avoid mowing the grass too short, as this can weaken the plants and hinder their growth. When pruning the grass, ensure that the blades of the mowing machine are sharp to avoid tearing the grass blades, which can cause damages to the plants.
Propagation of Digitaria nuda Schumach. subsp. schumacheriana Henrard
Propagating Digitaria nuda Schumach. subsp. schumacheriana Henrard can be done through various techniques such as seed sowing, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Sowing
The easiest way to propagate this plant is through seed sowing. You can start the seeds indoors during the early spring and transplant seedlings outside when they are about 3 inches tall. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, and the soil should be kept moist. The germination process takes about one to two weeks.
Division
Propagation through division is best done in spring when the plant starts to show new growth. To propagate through division, select a healthy parent plant with well-established roots, and gently remove it from the soil. Carefully divide the root ball into sections, making sure each section has a healthy stem and a good root system. Transplant the sections in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist for the first few weeks after transplanting.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings can also be done. Take several stem cuttings, each with a leaf or two, and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Place a plastic bag over the cuttings to create a greenhouse effect, which will help retain moisture. Once new roots start to show, transplant the seedlings outside.
Disease Management
Digitaria nuda subsp. schumacheriana is generally a hardy plant with few disease problems. However, it may occasionally suffer from fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. These diseases are usually caused by excessive moisture and can be managed through proper watering practices.
To prevent leaf spot, it is important to avoid overhead watering and keep the foliage as dry as possible. Additionally, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Root rot can be managed by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and allowing it to dry slightly between waterings. Fungicides may also be used in severe cases.
Pest Management
Digitaria nuda subsp. schumacheriana may be susceptible to certain pests, including grasshoppers, mites, and aphids. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant and should be managed as soon as they are detected.
Grasshoppers can be managed through physical removal, or by using insecticides or natural predators such as birds. Mites and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soaps or oils, or by introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
It is important to note that the use of pesticides can harm beneficial insects and should be used sparingly and as a last resort.
