Overview of Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke
Digitaria pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke is a perennial grass species from the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as Feather Fingergrass or Kleingras in English and Afrikaans respectively, and is native to Sub-Saharan Africa. The plant has since spread to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, often becoming a weed.
Appearance of Digitaria pennata
Digitaria pennata has a slender growth habit, with thin, cylindrical stems that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The leaves are narrow and blade-like, and can grow up to 10 cm long and 5 mm wide. The inflorescence is a panicle, bearing numerous small spikelets that are around 6 mm long. The seed is small, with rounded or elliptical shape and pale brownish color.
Uses of Digitaria pennata
Digitaria pennata is a forage grass, used to feed livestock and wildlife. It has also been traditionally used for human consumption in some parts of Africa, where the seeds are ground into a flour and used to make porridge. Additionally, the plant has several medicinal uses, such as treating fever and digestive problems. The roots have also been used as a source of dye, yielding a red or pink color.
hereGrowth Conditions for Digitaria Pennata (Hochst.) T.Cooke
Light: Digitaria pennata prefers full sun to partial shade exposure. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight to grow and thrive. Plants grown in shady areas tend to be spindly and do not develop as well as those grown in full sun.
Temperature: This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it thrives best in average to warm conditions. Optimal daytime temperatures for growth range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), while nighttime temperatures should be around 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause dormant growth or even death.
Soil Requirements: Digitaria pennata grows well in well-draining soil that is moist and fertile. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It is best to avoid soil that is waterlogged or has poor drainage. It can grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils as long as they have a good structure for root growth.
Cultivation Methods
Digitaria pennata, commonly known as feather finger-grass, is an annual or perennial grass species that can grow in various soil types. It can be cultivated using seed, and the seeds are usually sown in early spring or autumn. The soil should be prepared by removing weeds and rocks and tilling the soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and spaced about 20cm apart. The seeds should be covered with soil and gently pressed down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Watering Needs
This plant needs consistent watering until it is established, and then it can tolerate some drought. However, it needs regular watering during periods of prolonged drought. It is important to water the plant deeply, but not too often, as this can lead to the development of shallow roots and shallow grass.
Fertilization
Digitaria pennata can benefit from a fertilization program. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the early spring and then again in late summer or early fall. This will help the plant to grow strong and healthy. Avoid using too much nitrogen fertilizer, as this can lead to excessive growth and poor-quality turf.
Pruning
Digitaria pennata is a low-to-medium maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. However, if it becomes too long and shabby, you can mow the grass to about 3cm height. This will promote new growth and prevent thatch buildup. It is advisable to rake up the clippings, as they can prevent the proper circulation of air and nutrients in the soil.
Propagation of Digitaria Pennata
The Digitaria Pennata plant can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, division, and cuttings.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Digitaria Pennata plants. Seeds are sown in trays filled with a well-drained potting mix. The trays should be placed in a warm and humid location, and the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate. Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Division propagation
Digitaria Pennata plants can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring when the plant has started to grow. The plant can be divided by carefully removing it from the ground and dividing the roots into sections. Each section should have several stems and a good root system. The sections can be replanted in the ground or in individual pots.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is a relatively easy method for propagating Digitaria Pennata plants. Cuttings are taken from healthy plants in the spring and summer. Cuttings should be taken from the tip of the stem and be around 4-6 inches long. The leaves on the lower half of the stem should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-drained potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm and humid location until it has rooted, which can take several weeks.
Disease Management for Digitaria pennata
Digitaria pennata is a resilient plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, it can still be affected by diseases like rust, leaf spot, and root rot.
The best management practice for rust and leaf spot is to remove and destroy infected plants and regularly monitor the plant for signs of infection. Fungicides can be used to control severe infestations.
Root rot can be prevented by ensuring good drainage in the soil. Infected plants should be removed, and the soil should be treated with a fungicide before replanting.
Pest Management for Digitaria pennata
Digitaria pennata attracts very few pests, but it can still fall prey to various insects and small mammals like rodents and rabbits.
The best management practice for pest control is to use physical barriers like fences and netting to keep small mammals away from the plant. For insects like aphids and spider mites, insecticidal soap can be used to control their population. However, practices like companion planting can help to attract beneficial insects that will help control pest populations naturally.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly to quickly detect any pest problems before they become widespread.
