Digitaria Pennata (hochst.) T.cooke Var. Pilosa Chiov.

Description

Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is commonly referred to as hairy finger grass, small crabgrass, or hairy crabgrass.

Origin

The plant is originally from Africa but can also be found in other parts of the world such as Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It is considered an invasive species in some countries due to its rapid growth and ability to outcompete native plants for resources.

Appearance

The grass has a characteristic hairy stem that can grow up to 60 centimeters in height. The leaves are green and can range from 1 to 10 centimeters in length. The inflorescence is comprised of several tiny spikelets that form a finger-like structure, giving the plant its name. The seeds are small and black.

Uses

Digitaria pennata var. pilosa is commonly used as animal fodder and for soil conservation due to its ability to prevent soil erosion. The plant also has medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat various ailments such as fever and respiratory infections. In some cultures, the seeds are ground into a flour and used for food, while in others, the plant is believed to have spiritual significance.

here

Light Requirements:

Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. typically grows well in full sunlight. This plant needs 6-8 hours of direct sunlight to thrive. If this plant doesn't get enough sunlight, the growth rate may be slow, and the plant may struggle to survive. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that this plant is getting enough sunlight.

Temperature Requirements:

The plant prefers warm temperatures but can survive cold conditions. The optimum temperature range for Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. is between 20°C to 35°C. If the temperature drops below 10°C, the growth rate will slow or even stop. However, this plant can tolerate cold temperatures for short periods, making it a hardy plant.

Soil Requirements:

Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. This plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, though it thrives in fertile, moist soils. Lack of proper drainage can cause root rot, which may harm the plant's growth. It's important to maintain good soil moisture by regularly watering the plant and ensuring adequate drainage.

Cultivation Methods

When it comes to cultivating Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov., it is important to keep in mind that it grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soils and sunny locations, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant grows best in zones 9-11, but it can be grown as an annual in other regions.

Watering Needs

Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. requires moderate watering during its growing season. It prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged, and it can tolerate short periods of drought. Overwatering may cause root rot and other fungal diseases, so it is important to water the plant as needed.

Fertilization

To promote healthy growth, it is recommended to fertilize Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. occasionally during its growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be adequate. Avoid overfertilization, as it can harm the plant.

Pruning

Pruning is not necessary for Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. However, if you want to control the plant's size and shape, you can trim back the stems in early spring before new growth emerges. This will encourage the plant to bush out and produce more foliage. You can also remove any dead or damaged stems throughout the year.

Propagation of Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov.

The propagation of Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke var. pilosa Chiov. can be accomplished through both sexual and asexual methods.

Sexual Propagation

The plant produces seeds that can be used for propagation. The seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown directly into the soil or started in pots and later transplanted to the desired location. The ideal time for sowing the seeds is during the rainy season when the soil is moist, which promotes germination.

Asexual Propagation

The plant can also be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. The cuttings can be taken from the mother plant and rooted directly in the soil. The ideal time for cutting is during the rainy season. Rooting hormones can be used to enhance root development.

Another asexual propagation method is through division. The parent plant can be divided into smaller parts, and each part can be planted as an independent plant. This method is effective when the parent plant has many shoots and is healthy.

Lastly, the plant is known to produce offshoots from its base, which can be separated from the parent plant when they have developed roots.

Disease Management

Digitaria pennata var. pilosa Chiov. is susceptible to diseases such as leaf spots, smuts, rusts, and root rot. Here are some ways to manage them:

• Leaf spots can be managed by removing infected leaves and destroying them. Avoid overhead irrigation and make sure the plant has good air circulation.
• Smuts can be prevented by planting disease-free seeds. If the plant is already infected, remove the infected tissue and destroy them.
• Rusts can be managed by proper sanitation and removing infected plant parts and destroying them. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
• Root rot can be prevented by not over-watering the plant and making sure it has good drainage. Fungicide application may be necessary if the plant is already infected.

Pest Management

Digitaria pennata var. pilosa Chiov. can be attacked by pests such as grasshoppers, cutworms, and mites. Here are some ways to manage them:

• Grasshoppers can be managed by using physical barriers such as nets or screens. Insecticides can also be used if the infestation is severe.
• Cutworms can be managed by handpicking them during the night when they are active. Insecticides can also be used if necessary.
• Mites can be managed by spraying the plant with water to increase humidity. Predatory mites can also be introduced to control the population.