Origin
Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél., also known as Parodi's crabgrass, is a species of grass native to South America. It can be found in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Common Names
Parodi's crabgrass is also commonly known as Para grass, digit grass, and Argentine Bahiagrass.
Uses
Parodi's crabgrass is primarily used for forage production. It is a valuable source of food for livestock in South America, particularly for grazing cattle and sheep. The grass is also used as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility.
General Appearance
Parodi's crabgrass grows in prostrate mats that can reach up to 30 cm in height. The blades of the grass are flat and narrow, measuring approximately 1-6 cm long and 2-5 mm wide. The inflorescence is made up of digitate spikes that are approximately 5-15 cm long and contain numerous small spikelets arranged in two rows. The grass can be invasive and has been known to compete with native plant species in some areas.
Light Requirements
Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. is a warm-season grass that requires full sun to grow to its full potential. The plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In shaded areas, it may grow slowly or fail to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. growth is 25°C to 35°C during its active growing season. The plant can tolerate temperatures down to 10°C but may become dormant if the temperature drops below 5°C.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. requires well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients. The plant can tolerate a range of soils, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils, but it prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The ideal soil moisture content should be around 50% of the field capacity. The soil should not be waterlogged as it may lead to root rot.
Cultivation methods
The best way to cultivate digitaria parodii is to grow it from seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in a small container or seedling tray. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm and bright spot. Once the plant reaches a height of 3-4 inches, transplant it into a larger pot or directly into a well-draining soil in the garden.
Watering needs
Digitaria parodii requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Inadequate watering can lead to leaf drop, while overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Digitaria parodii grows well with light fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every three weeks during the growing season, spring through summer. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season, fall through winter.
Pruning
Pruning digitaria parodii is not necessary. However, you can cut back the plant to maintain its shape or reduce its size. Cut back the stems to above the node using clean and sharp pruning shears. Avoid pruning during the cold season, as it can affect the plant's growth.
Propagation of Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél.
There are several methods for propagating Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most commonly used method for propagating Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. is through the use of seeds. The seeds should be collected when they are fully ripe and dry. Once collected, they can be planted in the ground or in seed trays filled with a well-draining soil mixture.
The seeds should be planted about 1-2 cm deep into the soil, with a spacing of about 10-15 cm between each seed. They should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and well-lit area. Germination usually occurs within 14-21 days.
Division Propagation
Another method for propagating Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. is through division. This method is best done in the spring, when the plant is just starting to grow.
To divide the plant, carefully dig up the entire clump and separate it into smaller sections, making sure that each section has its own root system. Replant the divided sections into a well-draining soil mixture, and water them regularly until they are established.
Cutting Propagation
Although less commonly used, propagation by cuttings can also be successful with Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. Select healthy stem cuttings, usually about 10-15cm in length, with at least two nodes.
The bottom end of the cutting should be dipped into rooting hormone, then planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be kept well-watered and in a warm and bright location. Rooting usually occurs within 4-6 weeks.
Disease Management
Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. is susceptible to various diseases, such as leaf spot, rust, and smut. To manage these diseases, regular monitoring of the plants is necessary to detect symptoms early. The infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Chemical fungicides can be used to control severe infections. However, fungicide application should be carried out only when necessary and in the recommended doses to avoid the development of fungicide resistance in the pathogens.
Pest Management
Digitaria parodii Jacq.-Fél. is also prone to infestation by several pests, such as mites, grasshoppers, and cutworms. Mites damage the leaves by piercing and sucking the plant sap, leading to stunted growth and discoloration. Grasshoppers and cutworms feed on the plant leaves, leading to defoliation. To manage these pests, cultural practices such as weed control and crop rotation are recommended. Additionally, sticky traps and biopesticides can be used to trap and kill pests. Chemical pesticides should be used as a last resort and according to the recommended doses to avoid negative effects on non-target organisms and the environment.
